May 5, 2021 was a special day on campus as Bishop Montgomery held its Freshman Convocation & Prayer Service for the members of the Class of 2024. It marked the first time all year that most of the class was together on campus and they celebrated together as a community in prayer, music and a special freshman moment singing the alma mater and taking a class photo.
As the freshmen arrived at Knight Stadium, many dressed in blue for the their class color, they were handed their class medallion. Instituted in 2019 by BMHS Principal Dr. Jim Garza, the medallion welcomes freshman into the BMHS community and symbolically initiates their march toward graduation. The freshman also got their first look at their class banner, which they will carry with them throughout their time at BMHS and will be displayed at commencement exercises and reunions.
The freshmen were also treated to some special guests for the convocation. Current senior and ASB President Henry Hasnah '21 officially welcomed the freshman and, during his address, had them stand up and look around at their classmates. He reminded them that their high school years will go by fast. "Take advantage of your time and do many things and get to know as many people as possible," said Hasnah.
At each convocation, Bishop Montgomery invites a current member of the staff who is a graduate to deliver the official convocation address. This year, Vice Principal Yvette Vigon-Morffi '87 delivered the address and stressed to the freshmen that BMHS is a family and a home. She relayed the story of her freshman year when she attended a different school but wanted so much to transfer to Bishop Montgomery. "I knew this is where I belonged," she told the class. "BMHS was, and still is, my extended family. This is where you are cared for and where you are made to feel special."
The final speaker was Vicente Bravo '85, who welcomed the freshman to the community. Bravo, who has been a career educator, currently serves as Chief Administrative Officer and Assistant Superintendent for Operations, Equity & Compliance for Da Vinci Schools. Bravo began his speech admitting that he always thought he knew what "alma mater" meant until he looked it up recently. After realizing that one of its meanings is "something that provides nourishment," he explained to the class that not all schools will be that to their students; however, Bishop Montgomery has been that place for him. "I would not be who I am today if not for the foundation and education I received here at Bishop Montgomery," said Bravo. "Bishop Montgomery is not just going to be a school for you. It will be your alma mater. It is going to take care of you and get you ready for your future. At Bishop Montgomery, you are not just a number; you are someone here."
Following the singing of the alma mater, the freshmen dismissed, ready to finish their first year of high school and eager to cultivate the relationships with others that will last a lifetime.
To watch the convocation, click on the link below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ROYO3viif9c