For Immediate Release

June 03, 2021

On Saturday, May 22, 2021, Besant Hill School continued it’s rich 75 year history of graduating resilient young adults committed to a life of learning. This year’s graduates were challenged by the pandemic during their junior and senior years, and hosting an in-person commencement ceremony proved that the Besant Hill School community is as strong as ever. While numerous COVID-19 precautions were taken, Besant Hill’s traditional graduation spirit was clearly present.

The Besant Hill School Class of 2021 is an impressive collection of students. The Class consists of twenty-six students from 7 countries and 5 states. Each of these students contributed their unique perspective and passions to comprise an eclectic mix in classes and programs. For part of the school year, the twenty-six seniors adapted to an online learning community. Upon their return to campus, it was clear that the distance between their computers did nothing to separate the students from each other. In fact, it may have done the opposite and strengthened their friendships for years to come. 

It is a longstanding tradition that each Besant Hill senior makes a short speech at graduation. This affords a unique opportunity for the graduates to highlight the incredible and unique paths they have taken as a student. Freshman, sophomores, and juniors alike anticipate this monumental experience in their future. At this year’s commencement ceremony, six languages were spoken (by both native and non-native speakers) during the student speeches.  The graduates acknowledged their formative relationships with faculty and staff, and the entire audience was overwhelmed by their tender emotion. These heartfelt messages served as an excellent reminder of the one-of-a-kind Besant Hill School educational experience.     

In her Commencement Speech, Portia Johnson, Head of School, shared a quote from Mister Fred Rogers that describes the way the Besant Hill community feels about the Class of 2021, “It is you I like, It’s you yourself, It’s you. It’s you I like.” Besant Hill School’s Class of 2021 led the student body through a very difficult time and will be deeply missed on campus. The seniors maintained an authentic appreciation for their school, and the entire school community is grateful for each of them. 

Watch Commencement

Visit Class of 2021 Acceptances List