The graduates in the Class of 2019 received their diplomas and words of advice to continue following Christ and to trust that God has a purpose and a plan for their lives at the June 5 commencement ceremony in the school’s gymnasium. “God created each of you with a specific purpose in mind and He has a plan for your life, never doubt that,” said Michael Bult, the administrative pastor at Mainland Baptist Church and founder of the nonprofit, Today Matters, who delivered the commencement address. Bult challenged the graduates to follow five pillars of advice throughout their lives — to be thankful, to live your purpose, to laugh often, to forgive, and to enjoy the journey.
Alumnus Amanda Paone Mumaw (’11) opened the commencement program by sharing a few memories from her years at ACS, including playing on the Varsity Girls’ Soccer team and serving on missions trips. She urged the graduates to continue following the spiritual training that they received at ACS. “As it says in Proverbs 22:6, you’ve been trained in the way to go, so don’t depart from it because destruction and heartache will come if you do,” Paone said. “Follow Jesus and obey His Word and you will see God’s blessings in your life.”
Valedictorian Emily Loeb, 18, of Absecon, challenged her classmates to follow Jesus’ example and be relationship builders. She thanked family members and teachers for providing a strong spiritual foundation and demonstrating what it means to be a relationship builder. In particular, Loeb thanked math teacher Mrs. Spiker for having the biggest impact on her life. “You unfailingly give of your time to teach and build bonds with your students,” Loeb said. “I hope to become a teacher just like you.” Loeb will be attending Stockton University in the fall to major in biology with a concentration in education.
Salutatorian Joshua Mizrahi, 18, of Egg Harbor Township, said that attending ACS for the past 15 years helped him realize the true meaning of Deuteronomy 31:8. “I know that I do not have to fear anything that comes my way because God is always by my side wherever I go,” said Mizrahi, who was one of seven students in the class who attended ACS since kindergarten or preschool. He will be attending Savannah College of Art and Design this fall to pursue a degree in animation.
Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen, Upper School Principal Meg McHale, and Board of Directors’ Chair Doug Pearson participated in the presentation of the diplomas to the graduates. After receiving their diplomas, the graduates stepped out into the audience to present their parents and guardians with long stemmed roses as a gesture of gratitude.
Faculty members Jaron Beadle and Zach Monroe led the attendees in a time of worship, singing “Cornerstone” by Hillsong. The High School “Take Note” Vocal Ensemble also participated in the commencement program, performing “How Can it Be” by Lauren Daigle, with senior Ayolola (Lola) Oguntuase as the featured soloist. Lola, pictured above right, also gave the Christian character address in which she challenged her classmates to be ready for the spiritual battle that lies ahead. “Are you ready to fight in the battle against Satan, the world, and our flesh? Oguntuase asked. “Let’s remember what we’ve learned — to be strong the Lord and to put on all our armor.” Oguntuase will be a pre-med major at Thomas Jefferson University, where she will also play on the women’s soccer team. Senior class vice president Solomon Griffith, pictured above left, gave the benediction. Griffith will be attending Ursinus College, where he plans to major in history and education and will be playing on the Men’s Baseball team.
CLICK HERE for an online photo gallery of the Commencement ceremonies on the ACS website. CLICK HERE for an online photo gallery published by the Press of Atlantic City.
