Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Charter High School (CHS) graduating seniors, at their 2014 commencement ceremony Friday night, were told that they are just “warming up” for greater success.
Dr. Howard Rambsy II, assistant professor in the SIUE Department of English Language and Literature, gave the commencement address at Our Lady of the Snows Church in Belleville.
“You are a group of well-supported people taking the necessary steps to produce something wonderful,” Rambsy told 35 seniors, CHS’ largest graduating class ever.
The English and African American literature professor cited the career beginnings of such legendary names as jazz player Miles Davis and authors and poets Toni Morrison and Maya Angelou. Ramsby cited some of the greats’ earlier works, such as Davis’ “Kind of Blue” jazz album, Morrison’s “The Bluest Eye” and Angelou’s “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.”
“I’m so thankful they kept pushing themselves and drawing on networks of support to produce even more,” said Rambsy. “I’m so thankful Toni Morrison didn’t stop in 1970 after ‘The Bluest Eye’ . . . I’m so glad she didn’t stop in 1977 when she produced “Song of Solomon” . . .
“I’m so glad, graduates, that what you’ve accomplished so far is just a beginning.”
The SIUE associate professor also likened himself to an ongoing life and intellectual traveler. He talked of his accomplishments after earning bachelor’s in literature and history.
“My parents, family and support group were there,” he said. “They said ‘Good job, but keep going.’”
And that is, Rambsy said, what he has done and is doing. He earned a Ph.D. in literature and a year ago completed 10 years as an assistant professor at SIUE.
SIUE School of Education Dean Bette Bergeron also congratulated the 2014 CHS graduating class and its supporters. “To the faculty, I want to thank you for the magic and motivation in making this village possible,” said Bergeron. “At the Charter High School, we say: ‘Hope happens here.’ And to the students, I want to say you are the hope for this community and for this generation.”
Some of the honors and recognition of the night went to class valedictorian Starr’Retiece R. Gibson and salutatorian Bryanna N. Walker. Pamela Coaxum, executive director of the Greater East St. Louis Community Fund, awarded scholarships to Gibson, Angelica Howard and Kamia Suggs. The scholarships ranged from $4,000-$10,000.
Also recognized Friday night were CHS faculty associates Jamila Ajanaku and Jack Williams. The pair was acknowledged with plaques for their years of teaching performing arts at CHS and the SIUE East St. Louis Center. Ajanaku received an award noting 34 years of service and Williams for 31 years of service.
Bergeron received two presentations. The first was in acknowledgement of the School of Education’s financial support of the 2013 CHS Christmas Basket Drive. Bergeron was presented with a framed picture of cut out hands. “This is for all the years, you’ve lent us a helping hand,” said Staccy Lampkin, CHS counselor. The art work was created by senior Aleisha Latta and supervised by Renee Tate, art therapy counseling intern.
Bergeron also received a plaque for her years of working with CHS. Bergeron has been named provost and vice president at Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven. She will assume her new duties sometime next month.
“Tonight, CHS is making history with the largest graduating class ever,” said Gina Washington, CHS director. “CHS graduates have accumulated more than $220,000 in scholarships and counting. I am proud of the academic accomplishments of the CHS Class of 2014.”
The students’ achievements are cause for celebration, Rambsy said. “Good job. Really good job. But keep pushing. You still have work to do.”
The mission of the SIUE East St. Louis Charter High School is to prepare students who are career and college-ready upon graduation. To achieve this mission, the school and its staff will positively impact the educational and economic lives of East St. Louis, Illinois youth through individualized instruction in core academic subjects, exploration of career interests and aptitudes, assistance in realizing students’ talents, high academic goals, and expectations that graduates will become competitive employees for the 21st Century.
Photos:
Dr. Howard Rambsy II was the 2014 commencement speaker for the Charter High School.
SIUE East St. Louis Charter High School valedictorian and salutatorian from left to right: Starr’Retiece Gibson and Bryanna Walker.
SIUE School of Education Dean Bette Bergeron acknowledges students and faculty.
Gina Washington, CHS director, poses with a graduating senior receiving her diploma.
A CHS senior does a dance move, because he’s happy!
All smiles Friday night are two graduating seniors.