This year, the Villa Victoria Academy Class of 2024 had a unique commencement: It was a celebration of many generations.
In addition to many legacy and K-12 students graduating, it was the school’s 90th anniversary and the 90th birthday of Filippini Sister Lillian Harrington, Villa Victoria’s president. The class only had 15 graduates but received more than $5 million in college scholarships.
PHOTO GALLERY: Villa Victoria Academy Baccalaureate
PHOTO GALLERY: Villa Victoria Academy Graduation
Gina Giordano, chairwoman and parent of two alumnae, spoke to the graduates about their new journey.
“Graduating from Villa is no small feat; this was a testament to your resilience and unwavering commitment to excellence,” she said.
Villa Victoria graduates stand for the intercessory prayers during their Baccalaureate Mass June 2.
Hal BROWN
“You have demonstrated not only academic prowess but a deep sense of purpose that will serve you well in the years to come. Never let anyone or anything dim the light that shines within you. Whether you choose to pursue higher education or embark on a different path altogether, always remember the values instilled in you during your time at Villa.”
She also advised, “As you go forth, remember that you are not alone. Lean on your sisters, both past and present, for guidance, and never forget the value instilled in you: faith, courage and perseverance. Draw strength from your shared experiences and bonds that unite you as sisters in Christ.”
The graduation festivities began with the Baccalaureate Mass celebrated by Msgr. Casimir Ladzinski, a retired priest of the Diocese of Trenton. After the school’s graduation ceremony, students and parents gathered for a barbecue to celebrate.
Allison Adams, a 1986 Villa graduate, spoke of watching her daughter, Sarah DeLauro, as she became “a confident young adult, both personally and academically. I can attest to the educational and personal preparedness Villa Victoria Academy has provided for me and for her.”
One alumna parent, Helene Vitella of Holy Trinity Parish in Morrisville, Pa., explained how incredible it was to see her daughter Emily graduate.
“When it was time for Emily to consider high school, she asked to follow in my footsteps. There was no question that this was a terrific fit – a small, intimate school setting where she could learn and flourish in our faith.
“During commencement week as a family, we enjoyed flipping through past yearbooks and seeing everyone,” Vitella added.
Graduate Emily Vitella noted, “I’ve always heard positive things about Villa growing up.”
“Villa was important to me because, as a student, I was able to take the highest-level courses possible while also freely expressing and learning about my faith.
“The best part was it’s smaller than most high schools, and everyone knows each other. In a way, it’s like another family. My advice to future students would be to pay attention in class, especially religion, because it’s not only for a grade, but it is for you to grow in your faith.”