Greenbrier Academy
Pence Springs, WV

Friday, June 5th marked a momentous occasion on the campus of Greenbrier Academy. Nine of our students participated in a beautiful graduation ceremony. Attended by their families, past graduates and present and former staff members, this ceremony was the culmination of not only these young ladies' hard work but also a transitional family program. Following the prelude, Greenbrier Founder, L. Jay Mitchell welcomed the families and congratulated the students on their accomplishments during their enrollment at our school and one of the graduating seniors, Tina W. presented a poem she had written about her experience and feelings since her arrival.

Ron Schwenkler, Clinical Director presented the therapists at which time each graduate had chosen a staff member to give individual commencement speeches on their behalf. Karen Hurt, Academic Director presented diplomas followed by an energetic drumming performance by the graduates, led by Audra Schwenkler.

Closing remarks were made by outgoing Headmaster, Matthew Hart made particularly poignant as it marked the end of his tenure with us as he heads back to Massachusetts to be closer to his young children. The ceremony was closed by a poetry reading by Dean of Students, Rachel Call and a prayer.

Following the formal ceremony was a celebration in the dining hall with a graduation cake and plenty of tears, hugs and exchanges of contact information. All of us at Greenbrier Academy have the highest of hopes for these young ladies and will always be indebted to their families and the Educational Consultants that sent them our way for allowing us to be a part of such wonderful girls and their immeasurable potential.

In honor of the graduates we'd like to individually congratulate Tina W., Lauren O., Kenall B., Connor M., Farrah B., Sarah H., Brett S., Caroline H. and Kelly S. We also want to take this opportunity to share the list of schools these bright young ladies have been accepted to including; Vermont Academy, Grier School, Key School, Heritage School, Marymount University, Virginia Commonwealth University, George Mason, Medaille College, Lincoln Memorial University, School of the Museum of Boston Fine Arts, Santa Monica College, Salisburg University, Savannah College of Art and Design and Georgia Perimeter.