Hampton Roads Academy Graduates 48 in the Class of 2023

Hampton Roads Academy celebrated the accomplishments of 48 students during the 2023 Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 27th in the school’s Svein J. Lassen Auditorium. The graduating students continue the tradition of 100 percent college acceptance and earned over $2 million in merit scholarships and awards.
The morning ceremony included commencement addresses from Upper School History teacher Christopher Joyce, selected by the senior class to give the Salutation, and senior Tyler Cooley Richardson, selected by their classmates to give the Student Commencement Speech. The Commencement Address was given by Hampton Roads Academy alumna and singer Essy, Rachel Braig ‘14. After the Conferring of Diplomas, Peter W. Mertz, Head of School, gave closing remarks.
 
 “Embrace change, try new things, think out of the box, and in HRA jargon ‘Think, Explore, Discover’.  Navigate new waters.  Do not be afraid to seek what is over the horizon. . . .  Remember the special distinctiveness of this class; your friendships and your school, and take strength in knowing that you will always be a very, very good part of each other and of Hampton Roads Academy.  And now one last time let me salute you as HRA Navigators.”
 
The 48 members of the Class of 2023 leave a legacy of great success at Hampton Roads Academy in the classroom: two seniors were recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation for their high academic achievement; on the stage: the seniors led this year’s play productions and concerts; and on the athletic fields: two graduates will play collegiate athletics on an NCAA team. Graduates plan to attend 27 different colleges or universities.
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