On Sunday, June 30, 2024, at the Stadium of the American College of Greece, the graduating seniors Class of 2024 – 198 C Lyceum Students and 49 IB2 students – said goodbye to their School and, with the wishes of the members of the Administration, their teachers, their parents and their friends, they started the new chapter of their lives, their studies and their entry into adulthood!
The guest speaker at the Commencement was Ioannis Dragnis, a 1995 Pierce graduate, CEO of the Goldenport Group. Mr. Dragnis shared some of his experiences with the audience, but especially with the seniors, in order to help and inspire them in their choices:
“Reflecting on my own journey – which started in this place where we are today, the Pierce School, I assure you that today marks a significant milestone in your life and we are here to celebrate – not only your accomplishments – but also the journey and hard work that has brought you this far.
Don’t be afraid to set bold goals and take brave steps to achieve them. Our country and the world are full of potential, and you have the strength to make a significant difference. Your dreams may seem elusive at times, but it is through daring to dream that you will discover your true abilities and potential.
My advice is to live, to travel, to gain experiences, to broaden your horizons, to demand the best and strive for the optimum, to compete with yourself and day by day to improve yourself. Don’t get consumed by anything and from your mast look forward and focus on your goals. And if you ever get carried away and drift away from these goals, be assured that your crew – YOUR FAMILY – will be there to help you focus on them again.
Do not fear the rough seas. Everyone is a good captain when the sea is calm.
Congratulations Class of 2024. The world is waiting for you, and there is no doubt that you will make your mark!”
During the event, apart from the English language certificates that were awarded, there was also the President’s Award, the Minnie Mills Award, the Harvard Prize Book, as well as the Valedictorian and Salutatorian Academic Achievement Awards. Two students gave speeches, in Greek and English, conveying to the audience the thoughts and dreams of their class.
Graduates of 2024, we are proud of your efforts and achievements and we are optimistic that you will achieve all your goals. We congratulate you and wish you with love, success, happiness and smiles in your lives and carry on, guided by the values that your families and your School have instilled in you!