Seniors Miranda Ripken, Jon Galarraga, and Stephanie Meadowcroft took part in the 2012 Archdiocesan Distinctive Scholars’ Convocation at Maryvale High School on Tuesday, April 22, at 7:30 p.m.  They earned the spots of the three highest ranking members of the class of 2012.

Student were able to choose one teacher from JC that had really affected them over their four years in high school to bring to the ceremony.  Ripken, Galarraga, and Meadowcroft invited English teacher Susan Fisher, Spanish teacher Jane Michael, and English teacher Mark Ionescu, respectively.  Principal Madelyn Ball and President Richard O’Hara also attended.

The night included a Vesper Service, or evening service, and a reception that followed.  The ceremony opened and concluded with prayer, and in between the scholars were presented with medals and certificates for their academic prowess.

As the scholars were called to accept their awards, the presenters read statements written by the scholars about why they felt that going to an Archdiocesan school was important.

Each of the scholars enjoyed the convocation.  “It was a nice ceremony that they did for us,” Ripken said.

“I liked spending time with Miranda and Jon outside of school and getting a chance to talk with them,” Meadowcroft said.

“I found the ceremony to be flattering and beautifully executed.  It was an honor to be among an elite class of students,” Galarraga said.

The Archdiocese held the ceremony to recognize some of their best students and celebrate their accomplishments.

“Seeing how proud my principal, teachers, peers, and my family was, I’ve never felt more loved and supported in my life than I do now,” Galarraga said.

Amanda Graziano is an Opinion Editor for The Patriot and jcpatriot.com.