CLASS OF 2011 GRADUATION

JUNE 3, 2011

McLAUGHLIN THEATER FOR PERFORMING ARTS

ST. IGNATIUS COLLEGE PREP

Speech for Benefactors

This speech was presented by Lorenzo who will be attending Culver Military Academy in Indiana in the fall.

Board members, benefactors, faculty and parents, good evening. 

It would be dishonest if I didn’t tell you all that I’m standing here tonight because I worked hard.  I did my homework, I learned to behave myself and stop hitting people the way I did in 5th grade, and I took my opportunity seriously. 

Also, I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for my mom who supported me and never let me fail to see the opportunity that was CJA.

As for faculty, they laid out the path of success on a daily basis and said, “If you want this opportunity, this is how you take it.”

But where would any of us be tonight were it not for the people who sacrifice to pay for the scholarships that made our opportunities possible.

I can remember walking into the doors of this school very afraid wondering why my mom put me in this school  As time went by, I grew wiser and made better decisions in order not to let my mom down.  Later, I didn’t want to let my teachers down.  But eventually, I couldn’t ignore that the people paying for my education were making an investment in me without ever meeting me or seeing the light that my mom and the teachers saw.  How bad it would have been to let down people who were acting out of faith that everyone will make use of a great opportunity if it’s offered.

I remember the first time I met a benefactor.  I was just trying not to embarrass myself.  It was Mr. and Mrs. Botica, and I always saw them coming around the school to make sure everything was going well.  Like our other benefactors, they wanted to know that we had what we needed and were making suggestions about how we can better our school community.  This kind of dedication makes me want to improve, to work harder, and to be successful when I go to Culver next year.  I know that none of us graduates wants to let down these benefactors who have never let us down.

Like the students, our supporters use their gifts in all kinds of ways.  The benefactor community uses their gifts to foster and grow the gifts of others.  They are true men and women for others, and on behalf of the class of 2011, I offer them my heartfelt thanks and a commitment to continue on the path that they made possible.

To all the benefactors to Chicago Jesuit Academy, thank you.