San Miguel School Celebrates Class of 2024

The San Miguel School Class of 2024 received their diplomas at St. John’s College High School on June 8. 

Commencement exercises began with a baccalaureate Mass celebrated by Monsignor Father John Enzler, a longtime friend of San Miguel. Monsignor Enzler’s homily encouraged graduates to follow the example of the Blessed Mother’s fiat and say “yes”—to God, to their families, to their schools, and to the opportunities that would arise in the coming years. 

In her opening remarks, President Maureen Appel captured the camaraderie of the Class of 2024 by quoting veteran art teacher Diana Aguilar’s summation of this cohort: “‘The best description for the class of 2024 is brotherhood.’” Ms. Appel concluded,  “I hope the diploma you receive today reminds you that you are called to make a difference in our world.”

Dr. David Palank, San Miguel’s principal, commended the young men on their accomplishments, reminding them, “Though today you are no longer a San Miguel student, you will always be a Miguel Man.”

Indeed, our Miguel Men are carrying the torch as they head to some of the best college preparatory high schools in the area and beyond, including Archbishop Carroll High School, Bethesda Chevy Chase High School, DeMatha Catholic High School, Don Bosco Cristo Rey High School, Gonzaga College High School, The Nora School, Our Lady of Good Counsel High School, Phillips Academy - Andover, St. Jerome Institute, St. John’s College High School, and St. Vincent Pallotti High School.

In keeping with annual tradition, San Miguel School recognized outstanding graduating students and faculty for their work during the academic year. 

This year’s St. John Baptist De LaSalle Award for highest grade point average recognized Marcos P.

The Brother Alvaro Award for growth over the years attending San Miguel School was awarded to Brandy R.

The Principal/President’s Award for Miguel Man of the Year recognized Lander C., who most embodied the qualities of the Miguel Man.

Grace Babcock received the Charles and Louise O’Brien Award of Excellence in Teaching. Ms. Babcock teaches English Language Arts and Miguel and manages the library at San Miguel. This year, she fostered incredible growth in her sixth grade students’ reading and language skills this year. 

As the Class of 2024 embarks on their high school journey, they carry with them the values, knowledge, and brotherhood forged at San Miguel, ready to make their mark on the world and inspire future generations of Miguel Men.