Augusta Prep grads hope to leave mark on school

Thirty-one students graduated from Augusta Preparatory Day School on Sunday, the first such commencement to occur in the school's Boardman Athletic Center, which was built in the fall.

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Student Council President Radford "Rip" Bussey Jr. initiated what he called an "atypical" welcome because his class isn't one that favors the typical.

After Bussey's welcome, valedictorian Harold Rivner reflected on his peers' accomplishments in the arts, athletics and academics.

He said he deemed the class of 2007 one that will "leave a lasting impression on Prep." He urged his classmates to "replace darkness in the world with light and make it a better place."

Salutatorian Martha Judd then introduced the commencement speaker, the Rev. Douglas Williamson, who is known as "Doc Willy" to the seniors. The former teacher and soccer coach at Prep told the seniors to "Soar with your strengths and manage your weaknesses."

Before Head of School Jack Hall presented the class to receive their degrees, senior class President Caitlin A. King made a presentation of the senior class gift: a sign in front of the school.

King said the gift decision "wasn't very difficult" because she and her classmates wanted to make a lasting impression on the school.

King said she hopes the monument will "modify Prep's main entrance."

Hall then offered his own words and wisdom and shared advice obtained from members of the Augusta Prep Class of 2003.

The ceremony closed with Paige Guthrie and Julie Reynolds singing For Good for the benediction and Karen Filpus-Luyckx initiating the benediction in prayer.

The commencement exercises were followed by a reception in the blue-and-gold-decorated athletic center.