Graduation 2016

Form VI boys, parents and the entire Browning community gathered to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2016 during graduation exercises on June 15 at Christ Church. Headmaster Clement, President of the Board of Trustees Sam Weinhoff and Upper School Head Jim Reynolds presented diplomas to each member of the graduating class. Andrew B. Medland ‘16, president of the Upper School Student Council, offered parting remarks and best wishes to his fellow graduates and to Headmaster Clement on his retirement. He was pleased to note that members of the senior class reached 100% participation in their class gift effort, matched by an anonymous donor, raising a total of $1,815.42. These funds are allocated toward the purchase of new “big screen” monitors in the Cafeteria, used for displaying photos of the many activities throughout the school year.

Head of Upper School James Reynolds introduced the guest speaker, Honorary Trustee James S. Chanos PP ’07, ’09, ’11, who served as Board President during 15 years (2001-15) of Headmaster Clement’s tenure. Mr. Clement noted that Mr. Chanos, who was born in Milwaukee, is proud of his Greek- American heritage. Educated at Yale University, Mr. Chanos planned to pursue medicine before changing his mind and majoring in economics and political science. An investment advisor focused on short selling, he is founder and president of Kynikos Associates.

Mr. Chanos saluted Mr. Clement for his many years of service to the School and, of course, imparted a wealth of advice to the graduating class. He urged the boys to pursue what they are interested in, constantly consider new ideas, acquire skills that will serve them well, learn how to “be indispensable,” give back to their communities, and come back to Browning in the future, among other advice.

During the graduation exercises, awards were presented to Form VI boys, as well as to faculty, with special recognition given to those retiring this year, including Music Department Chair David Prestigiacomo, who was honored with a serenade by members of the Upper School Chorus. The Lit, a student publication, was also dedicated to him, while the Browning Grytte Yearbook was dedicated to Headmaster Clement. Lower School Learning Specialist Patricia Flynn, this year’s second retiree, was honored by the staff of the Browning Grytte newspaper who dedicated this student publication to her. The Sabet Award was presented to Susan Kehoe, third grade teacher.

In a beloved tradition carried forth during his many years as Headmaster, Mr. Clement remarked upon the major accomplishments of each and every Form VI Browning boy. Congratulations to the Class of 2016 and their families!