The Academia ● Volume 7, Issue 4 ● ac.cec.edu.bs Newsletter Date July - August 2020 Gladstone Road, Nassau, Bahamas, Tel. No. +1-242-361-5534, +1-242-361-5574 FAX +1-242-3612209, P.O. Box N-7540 Volume 7, Issue 4 Series of 2019-2020 Principal’s Message My Dear Seniors, Like graduating seniors around the globe, with eager anticipation, you looked forward to a senior year filled with special memories. When your 12th grade year began in September, you never dreamt a category five Hurricane named Dorian would strike our country; devastating Abaco and Grand Bahama. You never dreamt that your senior class would increase from 66 to 86 as you warmly welcomed to the Home of the Aces 20 new classmates from the devastated islands. Moreover, you never dreamt that four months ago, the world as we knew it would change as a result of COVID 19 and a” new normal” inclusive of social distancing and remote learning would become our new reality. Instead, as members of the Class of 2020, you have dreamt about celebrating and creating special memories with classmates and teachers, your awards day, your senior day away, even attending a prom, graduation parties and most of all your high school graduation. You prepared yourself emotionally, socially, academically and spiritually and waited with baited breath for June 11, 2020 when as proud as peacocks, adorned in the pristine white caps and gowns with tassels swaying from left to right, you would stately march to Pomp and Circumstance down the aisle of Loyola Hall. In spite of not being able to realize all of these long –awaited events and milestones, take comfort in the fact that some of your dreams may have been dashed, but you will never be crushed. You are a resilient group of young people who will chose to write your senior class history in your own unique style. You will rise above all odds because you are Aces! Armed with the Eight Characteristics of the Catholic School Graduate, you will not allow the absence of the traditional senior year and the usual glitz and glamour of pomp and circumstance to determine your inner strength, faith and true character. Over the years, you have demonstrated true tenacity, therefore, Hurricane Dorian and the pandemic of 2020 will only force your graduating class to step boldly out of your comfort zones, be more adventuresome and fully embrace what the “new normal” has to offer. This new reality brings with it a lot of uncertainty. There will be lots of questions and you will not have all of the answers, therefore; do not allow fear of the unknown to paralyze your spirited nature. You simply need to be still and listen. If you listen, in the stillness the Lord will be sure to drown out the noise and purposefully direct your path. “Be still and know that I am God.” I applaud you as you continue to think outside of the box, become more innovative, create new avenues and be catapulted into your divine purpose. Principal’s Message 1 - 2 Administration, Teachers And Staff 2 - 5 Class of 2020 XXCLUSIVE’20 5 - 7 AP Scholar Award 8 A Moment of Time Class of 2020 Reflections 8 - 17 Thank You & Farewell 18 - 19 Laws of Life Finalists 20 Stop COVID –19 21
Transcript
Page The Academia ● Volume 7, Issue 4 ● ac.cec.edu.bs
FAX +1-242-3612209, P.O. Box N-7540 Volume 7, Issue 4 Series of 2019-2020
Principal’s Message My Dear Seniors, Like graduating seniors around the globe, with eager anticipation, you looked forward to a senior year filled with special memories. When your 12th grade year began in September, you never dreamt a category five Hurricane named Dorian would strike our country; devastating Abaco and Grand Bahama. You never dreamt that your senior class would increase from 66 to 86 as you
warmly welcomed to the Home of the Aces 20 new classmates from the devastated islands. Moreover, you never dreamt that four months ago, the world as we knew it would change as a result of COVID 19 and a” new normal” inclusive of social distancing and remote learning would become our new reality. Instead, as members of the Class of 2020, you have dreamt about celebrating and creating special memories with classmates and teachers, your awards day, your senior day away, even attending a prom, graduation parties and most of all your high school graduation. You prepared yourself emotionally, socially, academically and spiritually and waited with baited breath for June 11, 2020 when as proud as peacocks, adorned in the pristine white caps and gowns with tassels swaying from left to right, you would stately march to Pomp and Circumstance down the aisle of Loyola Hall. In spite of not being able to realize all of these long –awaited events and milestones, take comfort in the fact that some of your dreams may have been dashed, but you will never be crushed. You are a resilient group of young people who will chose to write your senior class history in your own unique style. You will rise above all odds because you are Aces! Armed with the Eight Characteristics of the Catholic School Graduate, you will not allow the absence of the traditional senior year and the usual glitz and glamour of pomp and circumstance to determine your inner strength, faith and true character. Over the years, you have demonstrated true tenacity, therefore, Hurricane Dorian and the pandemic of 2020 will only force your graduating class to step boldly out of your comfort zones, be more adventuresome and fully embrace what the “new normal” has to offer. This new reality brings with it a lot of uncertainty. There will be lots of questions and you will not have all of the answers, therefore; do not allow fear of the unknown to paralyze your spirited nature. You simply need to be still and listen. If you listen, in the stillness the Lord will be sure to drown out the noise and purposefully direct your path. “Be still and know that I am God.” I applaud you as you continue to think outside of the box, become more innovative, create new avenues and be catapulted into your divine purpose.
Principal’s Message 1 - 2 Administration, Teachers And Staff 2 - 5 Class of 2020 XXCLUSIVE’20 5 - 7
AP Scholar Award 8 A Moment of Time Class of 2020 Reflections 8 - 17 Thank You & Farewell 18 - 19 Laws of Life Finalists 20 Stop COVID –19 21
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Seniors, you are already winners, so step out with confidence because your tenure at Aquinas has moulded you spiritually, emotionally and academically with the best survival tools…Goodness, Discipline and Knowledge. Therefore, go forth with my blessings. Remain Christ-centered and Character-driven and always strive to make Excellence a Habit. Congratulations Class of 2020. I am proud of you and I love you. May God abundantly bless you!
Shona Moss-Knowles
Principal
Marcel T. Sherman
Vice- Principal
Rev. Fr. John Duka School Chaplain
Randol Dorsett
Dean of Students
Shannals Johnson
Senior Mistress
June Hutcheson
Guidance Counselor
Kevin Rolle Kathleen Wallace Wanda Johnson Renee McSweeney Facilities Manager Bursar Secretary Receptionist
Leandra Kelly-Adderley
Administrator
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Donald CLARKE Gretal COLLIE Kmchell DODGE Denise ALI-GIBSON Anthea HEMMINGS Music Library Business Spanish English
Marcellas INGRAHAM Heather IPHILL Coach IRVING Carolyn JOHNSON Raymond KNIGHT Family and Consumer Science Business Physical Education Religion Science Hospitality
Suzette WICKHAM Ajith KUMAR Jose Cecil MAGNO Monique MARSHALL Jacob McPHEE KNOWLES Science and Information Technology Cosmetology Music
Mathematics Mathematics
Ireneo Ajero, Sr. Paulene Bain Ronald BOODOO Helena CARGILL Joan CATES Art English Science Library Nurse
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Shelby McPHEE Teresine MINNIS Anatha MORRIS Elizabeth MORRISON Covance MORTIMER Social Studies Mathematics English Social Studies Physical Education
Abby SMITH Peter SMITH Leonardo SONCAIRE Yvette SWEETING Brian TAPPIN Art Mathematics Religion Spanish Social Studies Business
Robyn MUNROE Carniqua KING Fenton RAMOTAR Fr. Anselm RUSSELL Vinu SEBASTIAN English ROLLE Mathematics AP Religion Science Science
Brenda WATKINS Janell WATKINS Eleanor WELCH Ravin WILSON Religion English Social Studies Electrical Installation and Auto Mechanics
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View the Class of 2020 Digital Memory Book (Click Here)
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dAnae morrISON
CLASS OF 2020 VALEDICTORIAN
ZyhrIA CURRY CLASS OF 2020 SALUTATORIAN
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MalIK KNOWLES zyhrIA CURRY
Head Boy Head Girl
OrIck pratt III angel morley
Class of 2020 Class of 2020 President Vice- President
JORDEN FREEMANTLE SIERRA FERGUSON
Deputy Head Boy Deputy Head Girl
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Congratulations are extended to Danae Morrison, Class of 2020 Valedictorian, who has been recognized by the College Board as an outstanding AP Scholar in the recent examinations. Danae continues to prove that she is Academically Capable.
Megan Braynen Growing up, I always heard people say that, “High school will the best six years of your life!” Because of this, I expected to have a blast when I entered high school year. However, I didn‟t expect high school to also be extremely rigorous, time consuming, and stressful. Nevertheless, I came to Aquinas College with an open mind and I can definitely say through many of the challenges I experienced that this has been an amazing journey. I have made long lasting
memories, meaningful friendships and I have received an out of this world education. Thanks to Aquinas, I am prepared to further my education and live a purposeful future. Karla Dawkins My years in Catholic schools have been some of the best years of my life. I will cherish my un-forgettable years at Aquinas College most especially. I met my closest friends here. My teach-ers have been my guide through my hard times and I appreciate them for that. Class of 2020 4EVER!
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Zyhria Curry (Head Girl)
Luke 12:48 states: “To whom much is given, much shall be required.” This verse has truly served as my comforting words during my time at Aquinas College. As an ACE, I was obligated to rise to the challenges set before me; I was never given less than I was capable of handling. Aquinas College‟s administrators and teachers detected my buried treasures and my hidden potential. They consistently and energetically encouraged and supported me so that I could turn my treasures and potentiality into reality in holistic and creative ways. Personally, the most memorable feature of Aquinas College will be its holistic approach. Not only did I receive a quality education, both in and out of instructional time, I obtained life-long lessons, motherly-love, and words of wisdom. I found confidence and was given once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, exposure and truly a home away from home. Ultimately, that‟s what Catholic Education is all about, well-rounded education.
Aquinas College is an exclusive community that creates a sense of unity, family and strength among its members. Aquinas College is the good soil that students are rooted in and are able to flourish. It gives students the stability and necessary foundation to grow. It is the tree from which good fruit bears. Aquinas College is the very foundation that my life has been built upon. For the past 6 years, it has opened my mind to various levels of knowledge and opened my heart to the unconditional love of God and of those surrounding my educational environment. I am a proud product of Aquinas College and Catholic Education. I am the good fruit produced by Aquinas‟ hard labor, which has equipped me with the advanced tools needed for success in my long journey through life.
Aquinas College gave me una experiencia inolvidable e invaluable. Gracias, Señora! As I embark on a new journey, I will take all of the essentials given to me from this great institution. Forever a PROUD ACE, I will
be. This bitter-sweet moment will live on in my heart as I advance throughout life while continuing to make excellence my habit.
Britney Dean
As a student who was had the Catholic primary school experience, I can say that my years at Aquinas College have been filled with exploration. At Aquinas College, I found myself and was able to become the person I never knew I wanted to or needed to be. I encountered many friends, enemies and many sleepless nights. However, all of this made me learn that hard work truly pays off. I maintained a three point and above Grade Point Average. Additionally, I developed my art skills, which will soon allow me to become a skilled world renowned artist. I discovered that I wanted to become an artist because of my art teacher Ms. Smith. Senora Ali-Gibson,
Mrs. Morrison, Mr. Magno and Ms. Smith showed me that they cared about me and my well-being.
I also learned that this school grants opportunities that some schools would never give to you. I would highly recommend this school to others in hopes that they too would learn things that they never knew about themselves and discover what it means to work hard towards their goals.
Daijah Johnson
In September 2014, I entered an institution not knowing what to expect. After graduating from C.W. Sawyer Primary School, I was immersed in an environment that was completely different in every possible way. My tenure at Aquinas College has allowed me to love and appreciate this great institution. The countless opportunities I have been afforded, the bonds I have created with the students and the teachers, and the knowledge that has been imparted on me will assuredly remain with me for the rest of life. Now, as a proud Aquinas College Alumni, I say thank you.
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Jasmine Johnson My experience at Aquinas has been a great one. I had many laughs with the people in my grade. Being here from grade 7 has come with laughter, tears, sadness, anger, and almost every emotion. I have become closer with people who I never thought I would have become close with. I made new friends and lost a few but overall had a great year. I have shed too many tears for unimportant people whom I used to think were important. I have realized in my last year at Aquinas College that everyone comes into your life for a purpose, and you mustn‟t take everything heart; it‟ll just add on to your school work stress. So don‟t take anything to heart. Live your life the way you want and don‟t be so quick to take everything everyone says to heart.
Lawrence Laville Aquinas College gave me a lot more than it took from me, it took the most important things from me though. It took my childhood, my dreams, my hope, and my sanity. The things it gave back to me were sadness, stress, pain, heartache, many sleepless nights and Pythagoras theorem. I would give anything to feel the joy and hope I had as a child, now all I feel is emptiness and stress. I am glad to be in my last year and I hope to meet the people I have met here again someday. I have met some truly amazing people at this school, along with the less savory individuals. These people have taught me life lessons that I will never forget and I hope we stay in touch when this school year ends.
Ciera Sweeting Upon moving to New Providence in July of 2016, I instantly wished I didn‟t. Adjusting to new living accommodations and an entire new way of life wasn‟t easy; however I shifted seamlessly and made the best out of my new circumstances. This was my first lesson in resilience. At Aquinas I‟ve learnt many things, things that I will never forget, but things I chose to push to the far corners of my mind. I‟ve learnt lessons that have humbled me and taught me how to proceed in life as an ever progressing entity. I‟ve made friends and acquaintances some of which I must let go of and some I hope to keep close forever. I‟ve encountered trials, tribulations and tests; some of which came with the intent of breaking me but never once did they succeed. I have made many self-discoveries and
some were shocking and gave they gave me strength. I‟ve received answers when I‟ve questioned myself and answers without questioning others. Needless to say: I‟ve learnt a lot. I am ever grateful for the lenient, compassionate teachers that always went the extra mile for me, grateful for every competition I‟ve won and lost. I am extremely grateful for all the meaningful conversations and jokes I‟ve shared with peers and teachers alike. I will fondly remember all of “belly-cramping” laughs I‟ve shared as they made everyday a little better. The past six years of my life have gone by unbelievably fast. It‟s crazy to think that I laughed when former graduates told me, “Enjoy your time because it will be over before you know it,” and now that it‟s my turn, I fully understand their advice. I can‟t say that I‟m sad that I am leaving for I am far too excited to see what life has in store for me in the coming years. I‟m excited to learn more: to learn more about the world, others and myself. I‟m excited to reach out, grasp and embrace the success that God has ordained to be mine. I‟m excited to show everyone that it can be done. I am happy to declare that I, Ciera Jordanne, did it.
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Lauren Thurston My experience at Aquinas College was special. I started Aquinas College in seventh grade. I am thrilled to have made some awesome friendships with some wonderful people. I am proud of my academic achievement and the kind of person that I have become over the years. I am sad to wrap up my high school career at Aquinas but I will hold dearly onto the memories for the rest of my life.
Sierra Ferguson (Deputy Head Girl) I had never really taken the time to reflect on my high school experience until Mr. Knight, my science teacher, posed an interesting question. This question was no mind boggling SAT Physics question but I still could not produce a definite answer. He asked me, “What made you choose Aquinas College?” to which I replied, “Honestly, I do not know.” Initially, it was not my intention to attend Aquinas College. I knew nothing about this school. My close family members did not attend and besides, all of my “friends” were going to another school. However, I like to believe that it was a part of God‟s perfect plan for my life to attend this prestigious institution. I can proudly say that this was one of the best decisions that
I have ever made. For many of us, our entire high school career is surrounded around the idea of going to college and obtaining good grades. At Aquinas College it is so much more than this. Aquinas gives its students new experiences and does the most to make it truly memorable. The friendships and the bonds that I have created with my teachers are incomparable and greatly treasured. This institution has instilled in me unforgettable life lessons, invaluable morals and the tools and knowledge necessary to succeed. Most importantly, I was taught to be a leader and to always stand out positively. These will live inside of me long after I cross the threshold from high school into the “real world.” I remember being a shy seventh grader. High school was unlike anything I had ever experienced before. I felt very intimidated, like a small fish in a pool of sharks, dreading the day that I would be devoured. However, the person that I was a few years ago is unrecognizable. Not just because I got a little taller, gained a few pounds and grew my hair, but because I truly blossomed as an individual. The butterfly has one of the most fascinating life cycles of all creatures. Before growing into an adult, it goes through various stages. Just like the butterfly, I too, grew and gained the confidence to spread my wings and reveal my colors to the world. Now, I am a confident leader with a vibrant, multi-dimensional personality that compels people to gravitate towards me. My administrators and teachers saw the potential that I had hidden within me and they worked continuously to bring it out for which I am undeniably grateful. My life is a story written by God. For me, high school has been the greatest years of my life and I hate to see it come to a conclusion. I understand that in order for a new chap-ter to begin, one must end. This chapter entitled, “High school, the best days of my life” will definitely be one of my favorites. No matter which path God leads me, I will always have these memories to reflect on.
Dayna Wilson During my time at Aquinas, I have had an enlightening experience. I have made important connections with many persons. I have created life-long bonds that will be impenetrable.
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Shavanno Johnson (ABACO STRONG) High school was the most memorable time for me. Throughout my time in high school, I got the chance to make many friends, mainly because I had the chance to attend three different high schools. With those friendships, they brought with them many joyous and fun times. Throughout life, I hope to keep those friends and create many more memories with them.
Shanay McDonald (ABACO STRONG) I am very proud to graduate from Aquinas College. The time has gone by very fast but I must say that I have learned a lot of
lessons. Aquinas College is a very positive and friendly environment. I am so grateful to have spent my final year of high school here. I have a lot of memories and unforgettable jokes in the short time that I was here. Grade 12 has been an awesome chapter in my life! Farewell to high school. I cannot wait to further my education and welcome all that the future has for me.
Celeste Parker (ABACO STRONG)
“Your time is limited; don‟t waste it living someone else‟s life. Don‟t be trapped by dogma, which is living the result of other people‟s thinking. Don‟t let the noise of other‟s opinion drown your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition, they somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.” – Steve Jobs. As I sit and reflect on my high school life, I can do nothing but thank God for bringing me through such a hard and tiresome chapter in my life. When I thought I wouldn‟t make it, God gave me the strength to continue. I am forever grateful to God and my parents. To my classmates: “Bless up and much respect”.
Keevana Russell (ABACO STRONG) Every student knows that being in school is not easy but somehow always finds a way to make it through. School is a journey. Your education is a dress rehearsal for a life that is yours to lead. It is always said that “Graduation is not the end; it‟s just the beginning.” School prepares us for the future. The Catholic Education System has taught me to be a Christian leader, an academically capable person, a centered and well-rounded person, a loving person, a life-long learner, a healthy person, an environmentally conscious person and a financially adept person.
Vaniqua Williams (ABACO STRONG) Graduation is an exciting time. It is an ending and a beginning. It is warm memories of the past. My Catholic education has taught me to be a healthy person that practices good health and to be committed to a healthy lifestyle. It has taught me to be a centered and well-rounded person who is responsible and self-disciplined. It has taught me to be a loving person that is kind and compassionate to others. It has taught me to be an academically capable person who is will become very adept in the use of technology as a future aspiration. It has taught me how to become a financially adept person that is competent in basic budgeting. It has taught me to be an environmentally conscious person that is aware of their behavior and cares about the cleanliness of the world around me. Lastly, my Catholic education has taught me to be a lifelong learner who is creative and will never stop learning. I will turn my “cannots” into “cans” and my dreams into plans.
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Marco Stubbs This is it. The day that I have been waiting for; I will become a graduate of Aquinas College. My time here was well spent despite my many setbacks and disappointments. My emotions caused me to stop being productive and I did not fully appreciate all of the lessons, support and encouragement that I received. As I move forward, I hope to learn from my mistakes of high school and not let opportunities go to waste. As a future artist, I will never stop believing in my dreams. The world is our canvas. We shape each stroke of joy with our bodies and mind to paint the picture that we always wanted to make. We are all creative beings because “Creativity is the Morality.”
Mia Williams My experience at Aquinas College will be a real one to remember. There were major ups and downs. I can say that my six years of high school were the best. I really and truly can say that I have enjoyed each and every moment. I have great memories of this great institution. I‟ve laugh, cried, and smiled throughout my days with my friends by my side. I am truly going to miss my school.
Marvinique Adderley Graduation is the day we‟ve all been anticipating. After 6 years of earsplitting alarm clocks, uncomfortable desks and chairs, dreadfully long lines at the cafeteria, listening to „Ode to Joy‟ every
Monday to Friday – it‟s finally time; my high school graduation. As I reflect upon my years at Aquinas College, I have many mixed emotions. Of course, we are all excited to transition into a new chapter of our lives; however, today is the last day that the Class of 2020 will be joined together for such a blissful occasion. Though the Class of 2020 may have had many ups and downs, we have created many unforgettable memories together. We have watched each other grow and change for the better. Whether my classmates have realized it or not, Aquinas College was our home away from home. I wish my fellow graduates success and joy in every path God leads them to throughout the rest of their lives.
Rashae’ Bowe The high school experience is something that most people go through. For each person, it‟s a completely different experience. What you do during high school could determine the person you become later in life. My experience was special because I had many friends and participated in different activities. My days spent at Aquinas College were the most memorable days of my life and they will never be forgotten.
Savannah Storr High school will be a time in my life I will never forget. When I started high school, I didn‟t know what to do. I‟ve learned so
much in school and so much about life. When I first came to Aquinas College, my priori-ties were not right. High School is a very emotional time for many teens and everything matters. I didn‟t know what to do or what to expect. However, I quickly made friends and absolutely enjoyed my freshman year. As time went on, friends came and went but that‟s ok; because that‟s life. Through it all, the most important thing is that I not only learned through books but I learned about life and the road ahead of me. Would I ever change anything that happened to me in the past? No! My mistakes made me stronger and they do not define me. I am grateful for all of the lessons and experiences at Aquinas College.
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Angel Morley (Vice President - Class of 2020) My five years at Aquinas College have been a rollercoaster ride of changes. My first two years were hard in so many ways but there were so many people who supported and encouraged me. I am forever grateful. My life will never be the same and that‟s exciting and terrifying. As my classmates and I go our separate ways, we all will be reminded of how we got here, what we have learned, and what experiences were most meaningful to us. I may have had a bumpy road ahead, but I will continue to work hard that in the end my accomplishments will be smooth. I have made some long-lasting friendships. I will take the words on our principal that at Aquinas College we create a culture of excellence. As I say goodbye, I will have high expectations as I continue to make excellence my habit.
De’Ara Rolle
My time at Aquinas College was very memorable. My first experience was when my mother drove me into the school yard to take the entrance exam. I was so afraid of what was to come. The summer before I became an ACE, I attended summer school. There, I met some of my future teachers and friends. Seventh grade came and I could not be more anxious for the years ahead of me. The days rolled by and so did the memories. From then to now, I made new friends and lost friends a few along the way. I have learned, laughed, cried, screamed and gotten angry on too many occasions. Through it all, I have discovered so many great and awesome things about myself. I have gained confidence and built relationships with people that I feel like I have known my whole life. I am thankful for my experiences at Aquinas College; both positive and negative.
Thank you for this wonderful journey.
Orick Pratt III (President - Class of 2020)
My experience at Aquinas was an unforgettable one, filled with laughter, tears, and ups and down. My journey began in grade seven. I was shy and scared as I did not know anyone. This all changed when I became friends with Sierra, Malik and Jorden. Grade 7 went by in a breeze and I had so much fun. Before I knew it, time had completely gone and I was in grade 11. This was the year that I challenged myself and ran for president of the future Class of 2020. This was a position in which I would have to be elected by my classmates. My classmates all wanted me to win because they all see leadership potential in me. They would often say that I am a real politician. My classmates believed in me, voted for me and I won the position as President. As I entered grade 12, my days were filled with coursework, exams, college applications &
fees and the various college meetings at lunch. To all my friends and classmates, I love you all. I hope life somehow brings us all back together one day.
Madisyn Major Looking back on my years spent at Aquinas College, I have realized how much I have grown as an individual.
I grew up in the Catholic Education my entire life and have now learned to appreciate the values instilled in me. Entering Aquinas into the seventh grade, I was both exited and scared of the transition into secondary school. Once I became accustomed to my new school, I was able to expand socially, personally and academically. My view towards learning changed as I began to realize the value and importance of my education towards my future.
When going into a new school, I knew that I was going to make friends along the way. In my experience of making friends, I learned that quality will always triumph over quantity; every time. I am confident that the relationships that I made at this school will last forever.
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Danae Inniss These past six years at Aquinas College have been some of the best, the worst, the most hectic and stressful and the most memorable years of my life. I have grown so much physically, mentally, spiritually and academically at Aquinas College. I am incredibly grateful that I attended this great institution. From the first day in 7th grade, I had to be independent because many of my close friends from primary school attended other high schools. I had to make new friends and establish new relationships with my teachers and new classmates.
One of the main reasons that I was able to adjust at Aquinas College was because I had some old classmates from primary school with me. Additionally, I joined afterschool clubs in which I met other students. I was a member of the Junior Girls Basketball team from grades 7-9. Being a member of this team helped me to become more determined, fearless, strong and confident. Basketball not only helped discipline me on the court but it also helped me in the classroom with my grades. Aquinas has taught me so much even though I didn‟t realize it many times. Through all the ups and downs of high school, I take with me 8 Characteristics of a Catholic School Graduate: I am more of a Christian Leader, I am Academically Capable, I have become Centered and Well Rounded, I am a Loving Person to all, I will always be a Life Long Learner, I am a Healthy Person, I am more Environmentally Conscious, and I learning to be Financially Adept. Being at Aquinas College undoubtedly was one of the best experiences. This school will always hold a special place in my heart. I will cherish every memory I made. I am incredibly grateful to my teachers. I say thank you to my friends whom I will love forever. This chapter in my life is ending but will always be one of my favorites.
A PRAYER TO THE AQUINAS COLLEGE
CLASS OF 2020
Loving God, we thank you for the Class of 2020. You have blessed them during
their years in school with wisdom, friendships, and skills. You continue to
challenge them to make this world a better place because of their education.
Help them to look forward to their next steps either by continuing in
their education or entering the work world.
Give them faith and a sense of purpose in their next steps. Show them how to
serve others in effective ways. May they always be aware that in everything they
do that they will find fulfillment in doing your will, that you will be with them
always, and that you will bring to completion the good work you have
begun in them.
AMEN.
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View the Class of 2020 Digital Memory Book (Click Here)
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Ms. Carolyn JOHNSON Religion Department
Coach Lawrence IRVING P. E. Department
As you journey onward, remember always that our love and
appreciation for your years of dedicated service to Aquinas College
are etched on our hearts. As you meet the poor, the pained, and the
stranger on your way, see in each one the face of our Christ. As you
walk through the good times and the hard times, never lose sight of
the shelter of God’s loving arms.
We entrust Coach Irving and Ms. C. Johnson into God’s care,
knowing that He is always the Faithful Traveler and Companion on
our way. Shelter and protect them. Let their futures be a source of
many enriching and transforming moments. Let the peace of God
reign in their hearts forever. AMEN.
Page 19 The Academia ● Volume 7, Issue 4 ● ac.cec.edu.bs
THANK YOU AQUINAS COLLEGE
Dear Class of 2020 and the ACES Family,
Our school year has definitely not been business as usual. In the history of Aquinas College, no graduating class had ever faced the obstacles like you did with Hurricane Dorian and the COVID 19 pandemic. The unexpected closure of schools due to the pandemic may have taken away the last few weeks of your senior year activities, but it never took away your pride as a class. It did not take away your happiness, your desire to continue your education, your desire to find your place in this world and your drive to-ward a successful future. Class of 2020, you will be remembered forever. Your class has earned its place in history. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each of you. You have cemented your moment in time in the most extraordinary way. May God bless each of your paths!
As we end the 2019-2020 school year and having fulfilled seven years as the Senior Mistress, I sadly announce that I will not return to Aqui-nas College when school reopens for the 2020-2021 academic year. My heart is filled with love and tears as I say farewell to this great institution.
The number seven holds great significance in the Bible. It is a number of completeness. I have completed my work at Aquinas College and it is pleasing in the sight of God. He has given me a new mission to fulfill; one that I have readily accepted.
It is my pleasure to share that I have been elevated to a new position as the incoming high school Vice Principal at Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Academy in Freeport, Grand Bahama. I go for-ward in faith.
This final Academia for the 2019-2020 will serve as my final role as the Editor-in-Chief. When I started the Academia seven years ago, I never could have imagined the far-reaching impact that each publication has had with so many persons; particularly our alumni.
My vision for each publication of the Academia could not come to fruition without the design and layout expertise of Mr. Magno. From the inception, Mr. Magno has supported and worked tirelessly to ensure that each Academia appeared interest-ing and eye-catching to the reader. Our two-member team worked well together.
I am forever grateful to Mr. Magno for being such a dedicated team member and an instrumental and positive supporter of this labor of love called the Academia.
I express my sincere gratitude to Mrs. Knowles, our Principal, Mr. Sherman, our Vice Principal, and other administrators for welcoming, supporting and encouraging me as part of such a dynamic group of leaders. To the teachers, your commitment and dedication exem-plify that you have been called to make a difference. To the staff members, thank you for being such an integral part of the family. To the students, you are a part of a grand legacy. Never lose focus or hope as you strive daily in your pursuit of excellence. To the parents and guardians, thank you for your support of our students and the members of this great institution.
I take with me so many wonderful memories that will last a lifetime. As we go our separate ways, I pray that God will continue to shower His grace, mercy and blessings on Aquinas College. From my heart to your heart, thank you and I love you.
Page 20 The Academia ● Volume 7, Issue 4 ● ac.cec.edu.bs
One of the Eight Characteristics of a Catholic School Graduate is that there is demonstration of being Academically Capable. Aquinas College continues to make impeccable strides on this trajectory by the exemplary academic performances both locally and internationally. We extend congratulations to our Grade 12 students who sat this year‟s AP Examinations and exhibited outstanding results. The Advanced Placement (AP) tests are college-level exams on specific subjects. At many colleges and universities, a high enough score will earn the student college credit. May the beacon of light shine brightly in their future endeavors! Additionally, we congratulate the following students who have been selected as finalists in the 2020 Laws of Life Essay and Video Competition. This competition allows students in communities around the globe to compete for prizes in essay and video contests based on the Laws of Life in Sir John Templeton writings. Beginning in 2009, students in The Bahamas have had a contest of their own, which is presented by The Bahamas Ministry of Education and the Nassau based Templeton World Charity Foundation. All the best to each of our competitors!
