Junior Ring Ceremony celebrates milestone for the Class of 2024

“The Junior Ring Ceremony has great significance at Oakcrest,” Head of School Dr. Mary T. Ortiz wrote in her remarks for the ceremony. “It is a cherished tradition that began in the early days of the school, one of few occasions in which the entire class gathers together. It serves as a visual reminder that graduation is not as far off in the distant future as it was when you first put on your Oakcrest plaid skirt.”

The signet ring which each Junior has the opportunity to purchase serves as a reminder of the unity of the Oakcrest community in its symbols of the Oakcrest oak tree and roots, the Oakcrest rose, and school motto, “Virtus et Veritas”.

In the 11th Grade at Oakcrest, the curriculum and the Grade Level Experiences explore the themes of “person” and “woman” and the virtues of constancy, gratitude, and prudence, all the while seeking to understand at a tangible level the meaning of what it means for women to be Trustees of Humanity.  

Julie Marx, mother of two Oakcrest students (Ana ’24 and Ellie ’26), delivered a beautiful reflection on the Oakcrest journey that extends far beyond the physical campus and the high school years. Touching on the power of constancy in charity, she emphasized the power and meaning in being present to those whom God has placed in one’s life. 

Calling to mind the words of St. Mother Teresa, “If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other,” Mrs. Marx charged the Class of 2024 with the challenge to go and share their gifts with the world, all while caring for one another. “So go share yourself,” she said. “And at the same time accept the gift of everyone else. We are called to take care of one another, let’s do it in the flesh.”

Watch Mrs. Marx's remarks here.