26 GCA students open new chapter in life
By Cassandra Hamman
Special to the Saipan Tribune
A crowd of girls chattered in the bathroom adjusting leis and refreshing hairstyles, while other soon-to-be graduates anxiously twirled their tassels with nervous grins. This was an important Friday at Grace Christian Academy—graduation day.
Nathan Torres, a student awaiting his diploma, strummed an acoustic guitar in the midst of rampant conversation among his classmates. “I want to get people hyped up,” he said. “Man its over [high school]; it’s over. I’m psyched.”
Torres, who has attended GCA since first grade, plans to continue his education in San Diego at Grossmont Community College and study criminal justice. “Finally!” he said, on leaving the island. “The only place I would really go on vacation is Guam. I’m actually going to stay on the mainland this time.”
Delia dela Llana, the class advisor, scurried around getting the students organized for pictures and commencement. “I’m sad, but hopeful for them. I will continuously guide them and communicate with them so they are on the right path,” she said.
The ceremony, held at the GCA Auditorium Friday night, was filled with eloquent speeches from students and faculty. Saipan’s own mayor, Juan B. Tudela, gave a thoughtful speech, followed by multiple awards allocated to outstanding students. The class valedictorian was Lovely Relado, while Hang Hyun Jun was declared class Salutatorian.
The graduates also made an impressive video of the senior class touching on fond memories and accomplishments.
“I’m nervous. We are all leaving each other,” said graduate Cheryl Roppul.
Graduate Marie Motsumoto agreed. “Yeah we are starting a new chapter of life. I can’t believe it’s the day.” Motsumoto plans to move back to Japan, stay with her grandmother and attend college. She hopes to study special education.
Most students graduated after attending GCA since kindergarten or first grade. They all spent their junior and senior year in the same classroom. “They’ve been my friends all my life. They are like family,” said Torres.
Scho Saso, another graduate, plans to move to Houston Community College in Texas to study business. “It’s another day,” he said regarding graduation. “But when we leave it will hit us,” said Keith Fabila, who plans to study nursing in the Philippines.
Saso won the Eagle Award, which Rev. Raymond S. Kinsella earlier described as the most prestigious award given by GCA. “The recipient of this award displays high academics, Christian character, and citizenship. This well-rounded character has proven outstanding leadership in class and is involved in a local church,” said Kinsella.
The theme of the commencement “A Journey with a Purpose” echoed throughout the entire event. Tears and laughter, gratitude and accomplishment—the graduates’ emotions were full and rich. These students exemplified a strong will to succeed and a fervent passion for their Christian faith.
Fabila put it bluntly, “Everything we accomplished in high school…without God it’s worthless.”
