Congratulations to the Mighty, Mighty Chicken Hawks Class of 2016!

The 86th Commencement Exercise of the Charlotte Amalie High School brought out a packed house at the UVI Sports & Fitness Center on Sunday, June 19, 2016 to witness 245 graduates, the Territory's largest graduating class this year, receive their high school diplomas. 

Following a triumphant entrace of the Class of 2016, Principal Alcede Edwards officially opened the ceremony, welcoming distinguished guests, graduates and the community. He praised the Class of 2016 for their perseverance and highlighted a number of accomplishments in academics, sports, and extra-curricular activities.

Class valedictorian Asel Mustafa opened her remarks by announcing that the speech she had prepared and that was approved by the CAHS administration was not the one she would read. Instead, she opened by talking about the importance of diversity that led into her recitation of an Arabic prayer that asked for God's blessing upon the Class of 2016. This gesture received warm applause from the audience. Ansel then honed in on the talents of each of her classmates, stating, "You all are valedictorians because you are the best at what you do." She added, "Here, we excel always," making reference to the school's motto."

Salutatorian Kera Smith gave an equally rousing speech to the Class of 2016. She said, "It's ok to make mistakes and not know everything. We are doing life for the first time. But, we must always get back up and keep living." In the end, she proudly stated, "We made it."

The keynote address was given by American Diplomat Lisa Phillip, a graduate of the CAHS Class of 91. Ms. Phillip's inspirational message to students centered on her career journey that has led her to live and work in South Africa and many other countries around the world. She admitted that while she had always wanted to be a diplomat, she didn't know how that dream would become a reality. But, she pursued it, nonetheless. She said, "You are the author of your success; dare to dream, set goals and execute them." Ms. Phillips added, "Don't focus on what you cannot do; focus on what you can do."

A special highlight of the evening came with the recognition of the 1966 CAHS Golden Anniversary Class. The group of 41 received special commendation from Assistant Commissioner Chermaine Hobson and certificates for reaching the special milestone. The four-member female student vocal group Swans on the Lake gave rousing performances throughout the evening. The CAHS concert band and choir also performed.

Of the 245-member class, 104 were honor graduates; 170 will attend college; 7 will attend technical school; 41 are enrolled in the military; 24 will enter the workforce and one student is undecided. The class received approximately $2.5 million in grants and scholarships.