Thirty-seven seniors graduated from Blue Mountain Academy (BMA) on Sunday, May 24. Commencement services began Friday evening with the Consecration Service. Seniors, escorted by juniors, marched in cap and gown for the first time at the beginning of the service. John Musseman, BMA math teacher, gave the address.
The three-day event included Saturday worship service, Tribute to Parents, and the Candlelighting Ceremony where each senior gave a lit candle to a junior, passing on the torch. An evening reception for seniors and their families closed the day.
The Candlelighting Ceremony also included presenting awards, certificates and scholarships. Awards included the Caring Heart Award and The President’s Award sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education and President Barak Obama. Certificates of accomplishments included: National Honor Society Certificate based on scholarship, leadership and character. The rigorous academic program includes maintaining a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.67; STEM Certificate with required classes, a B+ or higher GPA and 50 hours of a documented internship related to life sciences; Leadership Certificate with required courses and 75 hours of documented internship; and the Music Certificate which includes being a member of one of the touring groups, part of choir or band, required classes, a senior recital, and frequent performances in religious services.
Fourteen students graduated Cum Laude or higher. Twenty students received scholarships ranging from $16,000 to $42,380 from various universities.
Sunday morning at 10 a.m. seniors marched for the last time. The Commencement address was given by Mrs. Renee Paddock, former English teacher. By noon, the graduates of the class of 2015 were celebrating their milestone, taking family pictures, dreading packing up their rooms, and grateful for a short break before heading into the future.
“Looking down at the class of 2015, my mind was flooded with memories from the past four years. They have grown into young men and women prepared to take their place in a world begging to be impacted by their confidence, God-given gifts and passions that have grown during their journey as part of BMA’s legacy,” said Principal David Morgan. “I am very proud to have walked beside these students and wish them well as they move into the next chapter of their lives.”
Blue Mountain Academy, established in 1955, is a Christ-centered high-school boarding academy. Village Day students from the surrounding community also attend. Owned by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, students from all faiths are welcome. This past year, the student body represented 10 states and six countries. The Academy offers two diplomas: a standard diploma and an Advanced Studies diploma which includes advanced math and science, a foreign language, and additional credits. Students can earn up to 29 college credits with dual enrollment classes. For more information, go to www.bma.us or call (610) 562-2291.
