Despite light rain and overcast skies, the 97th annual Commencement Ceremony at Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child proceeded with joy and resilience on Sunday, June 8, 2025, in celebration of the Class of 2025.

The ceremony began with a welcome from Upper School Division Head Laura Hollenbaugh and a prayer —  a reminder of the school’s deep spiritual roots and mission to nurture faith and purpose — followed by the Valedictory Address given by Class of 2025 Valedictorian Cora Hsu-Laborde ’25.

Laborde’s remarks were equal parts vulnerable and wise, as she shared a story of growth and determination that began with a difficult classroom presentation and culminated in her standing at the podium to deliver her final message as a student.

“Resilience, faith, all the things you need to silence the doubts that try to steer you off course, you’ve built them piece by piece through every awkward misstep, every tough obstacle, every quiet victory,” she said. “Walk your path with purpose. Revel in your triumphs, relish the present, but most importantly, keep moving forward. The best is yet to come.”

Following the valedictory address, diplomas were presented to each graduate by Head of School Jennifer G. Landis and Board of Trustees Chair Stephen Loughrey.

Next, Sister Eileen McDevitt, SHCJ, delivered the commencement address. McDevitt retires this month after 40 years of service as executive director of the Holy Child Network of Schools. In her speech, she reminded the graduates to be true to themselves and to live lives of purpose, quoting Cornelia Connelly: “Be yourself, but make that self all that our Lord wants it to be.”

She continued, “It’s being right about the right things … surround yourself with people who believe in you … who challenge your views… make room in your heart and at the table for the other, the marginalized and suffering in near and far away places.

“You are our heroes,” she told the class. “Carry that spirit with you, be its vessel, be its future. Love the world anew every morning, care for it and all who inhabit it.”

The program concluded with a musical performance by the graduates and the singing of the Oak Knoll alma mater.

Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child proudly sends forth the Class of 2025 — grounded in faith, prepared with purpose, and ready to serve as people with purpose in the world.

See where they're headed next!