Continues Journey The The Class of 2026 marked the end of one chapter and the beginning of another during Gilmour Academy's 77 th Commencement exercises on Sunday, May 24.
F ollowing the traditional procession led by a bagpiper and an opening blessing from Fr. John Blazek '58, C.S.C., Head of School Kathy Kenny welcomed graduates and their families, acknowledging both the pride and the poignancy of the day. “It is a bittersweet moment for our community," she said. “We are so proud of these kids and sad to see them leave... They have certainly left an imprint on this campus.” Kenny reminded graduates that the true measure of a Gilmour education is not found in awards or accomplishments, but in how those gifts are shared in service to others. It was a fitting message for a ceremony that celebrated not only what the Class of 2026 had achieved, but who they had become. Returning to campus nearly 40 years after his own graduation, Commencement speaker Jeff Franco '88 reflected on the Camino de Santiago, the 500-mile pilgrimage across Spain that reshaped his understanding of success, faith and purpose. He encouraged graduates to celebrate milestones like Commencement while resisting the temptation to spend life chasing the next one. Some of life's most meaningful moments, he said, arrive unexpectedly, in ordinary conversations, quiet acts of kindness and opportunities to be fully present. “The Camino you have walked to Gilmour will always be with you," Franco said. "Purpose gives you direction … Presence opens your heart to the miracles around you … And letting go allows you to travel with a lighter spirit.” That idea of carrying Gilmour forward resonated throughout the ceremony. As members of the Class of 2026 prepared to
Gilmour | FALL 2026
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