San Miguel Class of 2025 Commencement: Forever Miguel Men
The San Miguel community erupted in cheers as the Class of 2025 received their diplomas on Saturday, June 7, with families, friends, faculty, volunteers and board members celebrating together.
San Miguel School, Class of 2025
The commencement exercises, which took place at St. John’s College High School, began with a baccalaureate Mass celebrated by longtime friend of San Miguel School, Msgr. John Enzler. Graduates served in many roles of the Mass, proclaiming the reading and the psalm, leading the offertory prayers, and bearing gifts.
Msgr. Enzler addressing the Class of 2025
In his homily, Msgr. Enzler reminded students, “Jesus is still doing his work, and He’s working in all of you…You’ve been marked on your heart with the spirit of San Miguel, and you’ll be a man of San Miguel for the rest of your life.”
“You’ve been marked on your heart with the spirit of San Miguel, and you’ll be a man of San Miguel for the rest of your life.”
President Dr. David Palank and Principal Alex Vera echoed this sentiment in their addresses to the graduates. Mr. Vera said:
“St. John Baptist de La Salle teaches us: ‘Often remind yourself that you are in the presence of God.’ Be mindful of that presence – in your choices, in your friendships, and in how you serve others. Carry this brotherhood with you – let it be your foundation. The lessons and virtues you’ve learned will serve you well far beyond San Miguel.”
Mr. Vera then turned to address the parents, speaking in Spanish to remind them that this achievement belongs not only to their children, but to them as well. “You have been their first teachers, their constant guide, and their example of love and sacrifice,” he told them.
Valedictorian Jeremias G.
This recognition of parental sacrifice resonated with Valedictorian Jeremias G., who reminded his classmates, “Let’s remember what our parents and families have given up for us to have this opportunity. Let’s not waste it. Let’s take full advantage of every moment, every lesson, and every chance to grow.”
In following tradition, three student awards were conferred during the graduation ceremony. Jefferson G. received the Brother Alvaro Award, which recognizes the student who has most benefited from a San Miguel education and often honors remarkable growth in academics, character, or personal confidence. The President and Principal's Award went to Carlos P. for most exemplifying what it means to be a Miguel Man through his leadership, integrity, service, and commitment to excellence. Jeremias G. earned Valedictorian honors with the highest cumulative GPA, reflecting not only intellect and discipline, but an unwavering commitment to learning.
Left to Right: Carlos, Jefferson, and Jeremias
Principal Alex Vera with Mr. Joas Alfajardo
Mr. Joas Alfajardo received the Charles and Louise O'Brien Award for Excellence in Teaching, recognized for his creativity in the classroom and dedication to building strong relationships with students and colleagues.
The Class of 2025 will begin the next steps of their educational journey at some of the best private high schools in the region. This cohort is known for having forged a particularly strong brotherhood over the past three years, with several students noting it is what they will miss the most. As Msgr. Enzler reminded them, they will remain Miguel Men for life, carrying the school's spirit and values with them forever.