The stately old church at St. Margaret of Scotland was filled to capacity for Leo’s 87th commencement exercise on Sunday, May 29, as members of the Class of 2016 received their diplomas on a warm, sunny, fittingly beautiful day.
Chris Winters, Terrence Lee Jr. and Antione Dunning were the leading honorees among the graduates, each with two notable achievements.
Tracy Robinson, a 2004 Leo graduate, was the commencement speaker. Tracy enjoyed a four-year playing career at Loyola University after leading the Lions to the first and only state basketball championship in school history. Upon graduating from Loyola, he embarked on an overseas playing career that has taken him all over the world.
Tracy’s speech was interrupted by applause several times as he reminded the graduates that leaving high school is really only the beginning of their life journey. He urged them to set high goals and pursue them with diligence, dedication and honor, and to listen and follow those who love you, not the naysayers..
Chris Winters gave a speech as 2016 valedictorian, recognized for having the class’ highest GPA. A standout athlete in football, basketball and track, Winters also received the Michael L. Thompson gold medal for excellence in music as a four-year member of the Leo Choir.