The 'Sisterhood of Fontbonne Academy' Grows by 103

The 103 members of the Fontbonne Academy class of 2010 walked across the stage last night at the school's 53^rd Commencement Ceremony under a tent on campus.

 Joan Vercollone Barry, a member of the class of 1960, gave the commencement address. Other members of that class were in attendance after celebrating their 50^th reunion on May 23.

Barry conceded that much has changed over the last 50 years, noting, "time moved much slower in the 60's." But she said the thing that separates Fontbonne Academy from other schools has remained the same. "The values that have been subtly, and not so subtly, put into the lessons at Fontbonne are the same," said Barry.

She concluded her address by receiving the graduates into the Fontbonne family.

"Class of 2010, welcome to the sisterhood of Fontbonne Academy; a group you are well suited for," said Barry.

The graduates also received encouraging words from members of their class. Clarissa Palmer, class president, took the stage first to thank various people and begin the ceremony. Palmer also thanked her classmates by saying she will leave Fontbonne with 103 sisters.

Gabriela Kirk and Alexandra Odegaard were the two honor speakers of the evening. They earned the privilege to speak after going through a rigorous process that included essay questions, interviews and a popular vote.

Kirk told the class of 2010 they would now be leaving the Fontbonne bubble for the bubble of college. With technology and their knowledge, the world can be their bubble she said.

Kirk challenged the class to let their talents shine. "Live with no regrets," she said. "You are ready and prepared to accomplish anything you put your mind to."

Odegaard began by sharing her career aspirations as a child. She hoped to be a movie star, an Olympic figure skater, a teacher and a supermarket cashier. She ended her speech by admitting her dreams have changed, but the attributes that carried those goals have not.

"I gave up the Olympic dream when I realized I could only skate in a straight line, but I took my perseverance with me," said Odegaard.

Odegaard told her classmates that every mistake and aspiration they have along the way will help them on their journey.