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Orthodox Observer - July 1997
St. Basil's Academy Graduation Cheers and Tears Highlight Event GARRISON, N.Y. — Commencement ceremonies at St. Basil Academy took place on June 7 as three graduates of the day school received their diplomas from His Eminence Archbishop Spyridon. It was one of the most well-attended graduations in recent years as families of the students, alumni, faculty, and supporters of the Academy crowded into the musty old gym that has seen many a play, musical and Christmas program over the past 50 years since the first commencement. This fall, the Academy will assume its new role of training Greek teachers and others who will work in youth ministry and parish office management. The remaining 20 or so students at the Academy formed the school chorus that sang a few selections in Greek. For Stella Yopp, the class valedictorian, it was an emotional farewell as she focused her eyes down onto the paper containing the text of her speech, avoiding any but a brief glance at her audience lest she break down on the spot. Nearing the end of her short talk, she struggled through the last few sentences as she fought back her tears. "You can't have a more fitting tribute to St. Basil's than that," said Mistress of Ceremonies Carol Contos after Miss Yopp ended her address. Board of Trustees President Dr. Steven Gounardes spoke on the institution's "entering into a new era of expansion and improvement" with the establishment of a teachers college. He explained that the children at St. Basil's will continue to be housed at the facility and to receive their religious, Greek language and cultural education there. They will receive their regular schooling in the Garrison public schools.
In his message to the students, the Archbishop said that the Academy "made it possible for you to live in a loving environment" and to be steeped in the faith and cultural heritage, and to develop friendships. Commenting on the institution's new role, its "double mission," His Eminence said the Academy is called upon to "take care of our children" and to train future teachers in the faith and culture, thus providing the Church "with one more institution of excellent learning." The Archbishop also exhorted the three graduates to "excel in everything" and to "sparkle as the sun sparkles on the Hudson River." The commencement speaker, Georgia Klamson of New York, a 1981 graduate of St. Basil's, reminisced about her five years at the Academy. "I consider my time spent here as being a part of the most influential years of my life," she said. Her main message dealt with the importance of liberty, tempered by responsibility and that the more liberty they have, "the more education is needed to use it properly." Ms. Klamson also told them to "trust in God" and to "not be afraid to ask Christ for help. Know that wisdom and virtue find their starting point in Jesus Christ." Representatives of several organizations presented awards and scholarships to the students. The National Philoptochos, Pan Gregorian Association, AHEPA, and Daughters of Penelope each awarded scholarships or bonds to the graduates. The Greek American students organization at the Bronx High School of Science presented a gift to each student. This graduation marked the end of the grade school, Church officials look with anticipation to the Academy's new phase beginning Sept. 3. The Very Rev. Sylvester Berberis told the Observer a few days after the commencement that six persons already had indicated they will enroll at the teachers college and that he will mount a major recruiting drive this summer. Meanwhile, work is under way to prepare the facility for its new role. ―JG
[ Orthodox Observer, Vol. 62 - No. 1131, July 1997, p. 3, 26 ]
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