On Friday, May 29, fourteen eighth-grade students graduated from San Miguel Academy of Newburgh (SMA) during the School’s 17th Annual Commencement Ceremony. Micah Fisher (SMA ’26) opened the event with a prayer, and Lt. Luis “Tito” Jimenez (SMA ’13, Canterbury School ’17, SUNY Maritime College ’21) led the Pledge of Allegiance. Henry Garcia (SMA ’11, Canterbury School ’15, Sacred Heart University ’19) delivered the commencement address, concluding with these words of encouragement:
“As you walk out of here tonight, carry your handshake with confidence, take pride in the details even when no one is looking, and never, ever walk away from your hard moments—because I promise you, on the other side of every single one of them is the person you are destined to become.”
Garcia has the distinction of being the first San Miguel Academy alumnus appointed to the School’s Board of Trustees.
Janelli Garcia (SMA ’22), one of the first girls to graduate from San Miguel Academy, also addressed the graduates. Janelli recently graduated from Northfield Mount Hermon School in Gill, Massachusetts, and will matriculate to Messina College at Boston College this fall. The valedictory address was delivered by Nick Hernandez, who also received the Grit and Grace Award, the School’s highest honor, in recognition of his leadership and commitment to serving as a role model for others. The San Miguel Student Creed Award was presented to Diyani Garcia in recognition of embodying the School’s creed:
“When faced with a mountain, I will not quit. I will keep on striving until I climb over, find a pass-through, tunnel underneath, or simply stay and turn the mountain into a gold mine, with God’s help!”
Kenya Soriano earned the Academic Achievement Award in recognition of her outstanding academic performance, and the Joy Award (Jesus–Others–You) was presented to Osmar Torres for his exemplary service, kindness, and thoughtfulness toward others.
San Miguel alumni in attendance were recognized and celebrated for their achievements in high school and college, and assisted Executive Director Father Mark Connell in awarding diplomas to the graduates. Alumni participants included Julian Marin (SMA ’20, Harvey School ’24, College of the Holy Cross ’28), George Mendoza (SMA ’21, Millbrook School ’25, Northeastern University ’29), and Oscar Liendo (SMA ’23, Deerfield Academy ’27).
San Miguel Academy makes a 12-year commitment to each student beginning in fifth grade, supporting them through high school, college or trade school, and into the workforce. The generous support of individuals, foundations, and organizations enables San Miguel Academy to advance its mission of breaking the cycle of poverty through education for the children of Newburgh.
