Graduation March a Powerful Tradition

On Sunday, June 6, over 100 members of the Saint Martin Community marched down St. Clair wearing caps and gowns and serving as powerful symbols of academic achievement in a city that graduates too few students from high school and even fewer from college. The most noteworthy marchers were the members of the Saint Martin de Porres High School Class of 2010, who were also joined by the faculty and staff, board members, the drumline, alumnae, junior National Honor Society members, and Ohio State Senator, Nina Turner.

“As we marched down St. Clair for our first graduation ceremony in 2008, we realized what a powerful symbol our march was so we have continued that tradition. Our young men and women are certainly not mere symbols, though, they literally represent a brighter future for Cleveland because they have been provided with opportunities that have prepared them for college, career, and life success,” said Founding President Rich Clark.

Once the procession reached the Slovenian National Home, Senator Nina Turner inspired the roughly 750 members of the audience with her keynote address. As a first-generation college student, many of the members of the Class of 2010 could relate to her powerful story of persistence and service to the community. Class representative, Tracee Frazier, and class valedictorian, Ariel Powell, also addressed the audience in very personal and moving ways.

The ceremony concluded with six members of the class receiving the Reverend Robert J. Welsh, SJ, Work Study Serve Lead Pray Award and one member receiving The St. Martin Award. Amber Colbert, Tyeasha Doss, Shawnta Eberhardt, DaShaun Jones, Yari Matos, and Ariel Powell were recognized for their joyful commitment to living the five core values of Saint Martin de Porres High School. Shawnta Eberhardt received The St. Martin Award as the member of the Class of 2010 who best exemplified the gratitude, generosity, humility, service, peacemaking, and grace of our patron, Martin de Porres.

Congratulations to the Class of 2010 and all those who supported them. We now have 190 alumni and alumnae who have marched down St. Clair on their way to graduation, and we are proud of each and every one of them!