On Saturday, May 17, Whitefield Academy graduated its 17th class of superlative students at The Church of the Apostles in Buckhead. Led by Headmaster Dr. Kevin Bracher, Upper School Principal Jason Van Bemmel, and Board of Trustees Chair Marsha Burke, the 50 students were handed their diplomas and now will all matriculate to one of 41 different colleges. The class received a total of more than $6.5 million in scholarships and grants, an average of $130,000 per student, and the largest amount of scholarship dollars per student in school history.
"Over ten percent of these students received full academic scholarships and the diversity of this class can be seen in their college destinations," said Van Bemmel. "As these students matriculate from Michigan to Baylor, Pepperdine and Southern California to Virginia, the U.S. Naval Academy and everywhere in between, they will take with them the abilities to listen, love, learn and live."
The commencement service featured keynote speaker, Dr. Steve Franklin, former Associate Dean and Professor of the Emory University Goizueta Business School. The author and business executive challenged the graduates to consider three life lessons that he has learned through his groundbreaking study of centenarians across America. the largest growing age segment in the nation. Dr. Franklin harvested their wisdom and these three best practices, which he shared in his speech.
1. Financial Fitness: Centenarians saved a minimum of 10 percent of their worth. Today, Americans save less than five. Make a pact to start saving early, and challenge yourself to reach financial goals.
2. Develop Healthy Habits: Reinforce positive habits daily. Read the Word. Nourish the human temple, for it is the instrument God has bestowed upon you to deliver your talent.
3. Live Well: We are not defined by our worldly possessions but instead by the books we read, the people we meet and the places we go.
"Both Steve Franklin and Wallace Francis, who spoke at our baccalaureate, reminded our graduates of important principles to live a successful and fulfilling life," said Dr. Bracher. "I have no doubt this class will take their words to heart and put them into practice as they move forward into college. They have already illustrated their commitment to excellence academically, artistically, and athletically. My prayer is that they continue to use the gifts and talents that God has given them to glorify His name."