The Walker School Holds 36th Commencement Ceremony

MARIETTA, GA -- The Walker School, a college-preparatory independent school, held its 36th commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 21, in Coles Athletic Center.

Among the 77 graduating seniors, 10 were recognized as summa cum laude graduates, eight as magna cum laude graduates and seven as cum laude graduates. Jingjing “Jenny” Liang was recognized as the school’s Valedictorian and Diana Toro was recognized as the school’s Salutatorian. Both students live in Marietta.

At the Honors Day ceremony on Friday, several seniors were recognized for their accomplishments. Diana Toro received the Donald B. Robertson Award. Named for retired Headmaster Donald B. Robertson, the award is the school’s highest honor available to a graduating senior and is presented to a student who embodies the ideals of The Walker School, especially a commitment to learning and strong personal integrity.

Jingjing “Jenny” Liang received the Atlanta-Journal Constitution Cup. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Cup is given to a top all-around senior who has demonstrated excellence in academics, as well as extra-curricular activities, and is viewed as an excellent representative of the school and a role model for younger students.

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The Faculty Award, which recognizes a deserving senior who has met all aspects of the challenges of a Walker education with integrity, perseverance, courage and humor, was presented to Kenneth Laster.

Barrett Kulik received the Leadership Award, which honors a student who has demonstrated the qualities needed to get things done and inspire others to do likewise.

The Service Award, presented this year to Ally Chebuhar, goes to a student who has given unselfishly to make The Walker School a better place for everyone without regard for personal recognition.

The speaker for this year’s commencement ceremony was retiring Kennesaw State University President Daniel S. Papp, Ph.D.