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Andrew Hunt admitted he panicked at the thought of taking four classes this summer to fulfill his requirements for graduation at South Pasadena High School, but he did it and was feeling great last Friday afternoon during a brief ceremony recognizing the accomplishment on campus.
Hunt thanked school officials, including SPHS Principal Janet Anderson and David Speck, the summer school’s co-principal with Janet Wichman, for their support in fulfilling a major task.
Anderson presented Hunt with his diploma before guests were treated to cake in the school’s teacher’s lounge, where family and friends gathered to enjoy Hunt’s special day.
“We always tend to put deadlines on things,” explained Anderson. “I’m sure Andrew thought ‘my graduation has to be June 2018.’ Instead what he did was demonstrate perseverance. And, that’s one of the special things about this graduation. You didn’t give up. You didn’t get stuck on ‘oh I didn’t make it by a certain time so it’s all over.’ You did whatever it takes to make the summer graduation.”
Anderson told the group, “We talk about resilience and perseverance, and that’s exactly what you’ve demonstrated,” she said. “That alone qualifies you for graduation from South Pasadena High School.”
Speck praised Hunt for working hard over the summer by completing his huge course load. “I know he wants to go on to PCC (Pasadena City College),” he said. “He’s a very bright student. I want to wish you a lot of luck, Andrew, in the future.”
Family members, including Hunt’s parents and grandparents, were recognized by Speck for providing the young man with so much love and support at home.
Earlier in the week, another South Pasadena High student, George Barnes, also met the requirements for graduation, but did not take part in Friday’s ceremony.
That left Hunt as the lone graduate at this year’s main summer graduation event, which didn’t get past a smiling and proud Anderson. “It’s quite a good deal,” she told the 17-year-old. “You get your own festivities. Sometimes you share with other people [at these ceremonies] but today it’s all about you.”
And, of course, those celebrating with Hunt enjoyed a good laugh.
