On Saturday, June 5th, Chapel Hill-Chauncy Hall School recognized the fifty-one graduates of the Class of 2021 in its 193rd commencement ceremony.

Student speakers included Valedictorian Gabriel McCreath and Salutatorian Sidney Dual, each delivering an inspirational speech to their classmates. The commencement address was delivered by activist, author, educator, and former Broadway actor, Philip McAdoo, Ed.D. Since 2019, Dr. McAdoo has partnered with students at CH-CH, both in-person and virtually, to discuss the intersections of race, sexual orientation, identity, and equity through a diversity and inclusion lens. 

In his commencement address, Dr. McAdoo spoke to the advocacy and resilience of the Class of 2021, emphasizing his confidence in the current generation of future leaders.

Dr. Philip McAdoo delivering his commencement address

“When I look at the wonderful ways that you [young people] are showing up and you’re advocating for yourself and friends- I feel really hopeful,” said McAdoo. “I want to apologize one more time for leaving this world a mess for you…. but I know, with all my heart, you are the ones that are going to make things better for us.”

In his Valedictory speech, Gabriel McCreath discussed how the Class of 2021 has grown in so many ways, while still remaining true to themselves. 

Gabriel McCreath '21 delivering the Valedictory Address

“I consider myself beyond lucky that I have gotten to know my amazing classmates at CH-CH. I love the way we support, affirm, and challenge each other to grow and change for the better,” said McCreath. “Even when the world is made up of uncertainty after uncertainty, we remember the shapes of our souls - our own souls, our friends’ souls, and our collective souls.”

In her Salutatory address, Sidney Dual discussed unexpectedness, noting the level of growth that can come from such unforeseen challenges.

Sidney Dual '21 delivering the Salutatory Address

“It’s scary when things don’t go according to the plan you have, but you can’t plan out life. You can, and should, have goals for yourself, but you have to be flexible in how and when you get there, how you achieve them, what that path looks like. For growth to happen, there must be change,” said Dual. “Have faith and confidence in yourself. Listen to yourself, your feelings, heart, and soul. Be honest with yourself about what you want, and also about the challenges you will face on your way to get what you want. Don’t be afraid to grow, even if it’s in a new direction. Embrace the unexpected. Welcome the change.”

Head of School, Lance Conrad, Ed.D. closed the ceremony with a message to the graduating class, 

Head of School, Lance Conrad Ed.D., delivering ceremony closing remarks

“Your class fortitude and focus has been one of the most admirable graduating class happenstances I have ever had the privilege of experiencing as head of school,” said Conrad. “You, Class of 2021, have demonstrated the strongest resolve and character that I have credited to any graduating class in my 15 years at the School.  For that, I and the CH-CH faculty and staff profoundly thank you.”

Congratulations to the Class of 2021! 

Graduation Photos: https://flic.kr/s/aHsmW29fU5

Diploma Photos: https://flic.kr/s/aHsmVXjxzv