Graduation ceremonies and celebrations for the Class of 2020, whether for high school, college, or graduate school, came to a screeching halt because of COVID-19. Another casualty of the pandemic.
Still, imaginative celebrations took place via ZOOM, drive-by parades, and streaming, among other methods…all with far less pomp and circumstance…but with plenty of creativity and emotion.
Jewish News celebrates all graduates, in addition to those recognized here.
Mazel Tov to the Class of 2020 on your accomplishments and achievements!
Sarah Blais
SCHOOL: Cape Henry Collegiate
DEGREE: High School Diploma with honors
HONORS: Faculty Award for academic excellence
SPECIAL NOTES: National Honor Society, peer tutor, studied classical ballet
PLANS: James Madison University, majoring in biology
PARENTS: Pam and David Blais
Kacey Cooper
School: Norfolk Academy
Degree: High School Diploma
Honors: Honor Roll student for entire Norfolk Academy career
Special Notes (Activities): 4-year Varsity Soccer, 3-year Varsity Volleyball, Medical Scholars Program, Internship Virginia Oncology, Peer Counselor, China Exchange Program
Plans: Attending Washington & Lee University in Fall 2020
Parents: Betsy and Erik Cooper
Leora Friedman
Schools: Kempsville High School Class of 2020, Graduating with Honors, Tidewater Community College Class of 2020, Associates of Science (Business Administration), Graduating with Honors
Honors: Governors Medallion
Special Notes: Varsity Soccer, DECA (Executive Vice President), National Honor society, National Business Honor society, Spanish Honor society (Treasurer), Future Business leaders of America, Kempsville Leadership workshop staff
Plans: Leora will be studying Quantitative Finance at James Madison University in Fall 2020
Parents: Jonathan and Michal Friedman
Rachael Stromberg
School: Norfolk Academy
Degree: High School Diploma, May 2020
Honors: 2020 Honor Roll Graduate, 2018/2019 BBYO Chapter President
Activities: Participated in Norfolk Academy’s Winter Musical, member of the Norfolk Academy Varsity Crew Team, NA German Exchange Program 2019, and BBYO.
Plans: Entering James Madison University, Fall 2020
Parents: Robin and Burle Stromberg