JEDDAH, 21 March 2005 — “Set a goal and follow your dreams. Strive hard and continue to study further toward greater heights.”
Thus spoke acting principal Maria Theresa Villanueva as the Al Bader International School in Jeddah gave its four high school graduates a warm sendoff on Thursday.
“Schools First Initiative: Focus on Outcomes, the Graduates” was the theme of the ceremony, with Consul General Pendosina N. Lomondot as guest of honor.
Emerging as valedictorian was Donna Kiritharan, the school’s lone passer of the UPCAT, the entrance test to the Philippines’ premiere university UP. She was also presented the leadership award.
“This is the most memorable time in my school life and I will surely miss my classmates,” said Kiritharan, who will be heading to the Philippines to study architecture.
“Just like any other graduate, I am excited to face the great challenges and responsibilities that lie ahead,” she said.
Graduating along with her were Aiza Ermitanio, Eli Flores, and Kevin Matig-a.
More than 50 other graduates in the nursery and elementary levels participated in the school’s 2nd Commencement Exercises and Recognition Rites at Al Harithy Hotel.
The other honor students were:
For nursery level: Ingrid de Silva, 1st; Jana Batoy, 2nd; and Rafael Oliva, 3rd.
For preparatory level: Leonardo Villanueva, 1st honor; Shaheen Paguital, 2nd; and Jaqueline Vergara, 3rd.
For elementary level: Izzu Villanueva, valedictorian; Chris Luyun, salutatorian; and Florenz del Pozo, 1st honorable mention.
Non-graduating students were also presented with certificates and medals for their outstanding achievements in their respective field of endeavor.
Presented with gold medals were Sharah Paguital, Kinder 1; Maria Mayor, Grade 1; Markus Aboy, Grade 2; Levin Santos, Grade 3; Philitti Villanueva, Grade 4; Bryan David, Grade 5; Lester Santos, 1st Year; Ulrich Perez, 2nd Year; and John David, 3rd Year.