Flint Hill Graduates 117 in Class of 2012

In a day and age when information can be obtained in an instant through one's cell phone, Jim Fitzpatrick wants Flint Hill School's class of 2012 to be mindful about slowing down to experience life at commencement Friday.

"One of my greatest fears for your generation is if you're so worried about what's going to happen next, you are never going to enjoy the moment that is now," said . "It's good to be quick. We all love the efficient. But if you live your life in a hurried pace, the time will pass you all without creating great memories." 

He also emphasized the importance of bettering oneself to help contribute to the community.

"No matter how far you've come as students, as people, you must continue to develop," Fitzpatrick said to the . "We always have room for improvement, and as you move into the next phase of your life, you should not be satisfied with the status quo. Work hard, but think hard, as well. Be creative, be innovative and be willing to work hard. Your impact can and will make a difference."

Friday's graduation ceremony celebrated a senior class that hit many athletic, artistic and academic achievements, as Headmaster John Thomas detailed to the seniors' friends and family.

But beyond their accomplishments, this class has shown its defining characteristic to be leadership, he said.

"It has been an amazing class. It is filled with scholars, artists, athletes, and musicians, dancers, writers," Thomas said. "But above all else, they have been leaders. They have truly led and done so much."

Three students received the Flint Hill medal, the highest honor from faculty: Madeline Ayers, Natalie Chanfreau and Daniel Giguere.

Chanfreau earned the distinction as the class' valedictorian, with Britt Savage honored as the salutatorian. Ayers won the Edwin M. Ward Leadership Prize, which is awarded who demonstrates humility respect for others and school devotion in addition to standout leadership abilities. Andy Rehberger took the scholar/athlete honor for exemplifying sportsmanship while maintaining academic excellence.

If you have photos from the event you'd like to share with Oakton Patch readers, please email Nicole.Trifone@patch.com or upload the photos yourself using the "Upload Photos and Videos" tab on this page. 

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