‘Make Discomfort Your Comfort Zone’: Charlotte Amalie High Graduates 220

ST. THOMAS — As graduation season continues, 220 graduates of the Charlotte Amalie High School (C.A.H.S) sauntered proudly across the stage to receive their diplomas, as family, friends, well-wishers, faculty, and other staff gleefully cheered them on. In a ceremony held at the University of the Virgin Islands Sports and Fitness Center, on Sunday, the graduates celebrated their achievements, excited to forge forward in life.

Draped in blue and gold, the class of 111 males and 109 females sat proudly as their principal boasted of 216 who were headed to college and the remaining 4 who enlisted in the military. He also boasted of $2.9 million in scholarships and other monetary awards the graduates had received.

After much congratulations and praises, Principal Alcede E. Edwards told his former students to never give up in doing great things and striving to achieve their dreams. “Be not guided by that which is popular, but instead be guided by that which is right,” he said, advising his students on their future journeys.

To his fellow classmates, salutatorian Roberto Tirado Jr. said, “Make discomfort your comfort zone, whatever you do, do it to the best of your ability.” He also challenged them to go out into the world and accomplish greatness. Mr. Tirado noted that his journey was not an easy one, but said that it was through the help and support of his family, friends, and one particular neighbor, as well as the tutelage and guidance of his teachers and mentors that he was able to get to that joyful moment in his life.

Valedictorian Aisha Griffin echoed similar sentiments saying that it was because of a challenge set forth by her mother that she was able to accomplish all that she did. Ms. Griffin, who spoke with the wisdom of someone twice her age, told her classmates and the rest of the audience, that despite her many accomplishments and titles there were more to her than meets the eye. “Look past my cover, open my book and read me,” she said during her address. She later told her classmates to embrace certain challenges that they were about to face in life. “Do what you have to do, so you can do what you want to do,” Ms. Griffin challenged.

In addressing the graduates, Governor Kenneth Mapp reiterated his invitation—made during the Commencement Ceremony for U.V.I students—for new graduates to apply for positions within the Virgin Islands government.  Mr. Mapp further encouraged the graduates to do great things both for themselves and for the territory, saying that they would not be forgotten by his administration.

Overjoyed by their accomplishments and reaching that pinnacle, students walked the stage with wide smiles to the cheering of families, friends, and other supporters.

Student of the Year Award: Mary Alice Prosper

Early Admissions Students: Kaleb Bellew; Aisha Griffin.

The C.A.H.S, was the second public high school in the territory to hold its graduation.