The third annual Sophomore Pinning Ceremony was held in the Upper Gym, on the evening of Thursday, January 30.
This event has become a John Carroll tradition. As the students walked across the stage to get their pins, the parents and guests were able to watch proudly.
Sophomore Class Moderators Lindsey Galicki and Kristen Kirkpatrick helped to organize a special night in the Class of 2027’s high school career.
A blessing was offered by Deacon Ken Goedeke, and the students listened to a keynote speech given by Class of 2010 JC alum, Brandi Burns.
A few class officers and delegates said a few words to share some Bible passages and their meanings regarding personal journeys.
Receiving a pin has become important in the identity of JC students. It symbolizes spiritual, academic, and social accomplishments.
Mrs. Galicki said, “The pin symbolizes the sophomore’s achievement in completing their first half of high school at John Carroll, and, therefore, it is an acknowledgment of how far they have come since joining the Patriot community.”
Mrs. Galicki said, “The ceremony went very well. This year was the first year where everything happened exactly as it should have logistically, so now we can begin adding and embellishing any details we want in the future as we continue to personalize it to the sophomores.”
Sophomore Pinning has also become very important as a true milestone in a John Carroll student’s high school career. Freshmen have their orientation to welcome them to the school. Juniors look forward to the Ring Ceremony and Dance, and seniors have prom and graduation. Sophomore Pinning is a new way to recognize the importance of the halfway checkpoint.
Sophomore Emmie Vaughn explained, “I really enjoyed getting my pin. I loved being with my friends, and I like that there was an event just for sophomores.”
Mrs. Galicki added, “To have played even a small role in crafting the school’s legacy for the next generation of Patriots is an honor I hold dear to my heart and which I take very seriously.”
Overall, getting a pin is a great way to recognize the love and support in the academic community, and it’s amazing to be a part of it.
A dessert reception in the cafeteria followed the ceremony.