Greetings XCI #2 - Wayland Academy

The keynote speech allowed Governor
Jim Doyle to reflect on the Wayland
career of his son, Gabe Doyle `97. He
reflected on how he recently visited Gabe
who is now a young father managing the
duties of childcare and professional life
while facing the difficult challenges of
life. He used this reflection as a note for
this year’s graduates to realize that while
some challenges have been met here at
Wayland there are many more ahead.
He then discussed the state of the
nation and world, assessing the fact
that “so much has changed in one
year.” Now more than ever in a world
with difficult economic times, high
school graduates need to seek college
education. “We need you… to get the
best education you can get,” he said. In
particular, “Take the values that you
have learned here and keep them as
you move into the professional world.”
As the speeches concluded, it seemed
that there was nothing left but the
diplomas; however, Susan Peterson, the
new chair of the Board of Trustees,
had a surprise up her sleeve. Calling
Richard Kimberly `54 to the podium
with her, she delivered a tribute to the
two-time chair and member of the
Board for his half century of service to
Wayland Academy. Susan’s memorable
encomium culminated with her
presenting Mr. Kimberly with the
Distinguished Service Citation.
Mr. Kimberly received the award with
gratitude, as the entire audience gave
him a standing ovation. Then, noting
in awe how great the Academy has
become in his many years of service,
Mr. Kimberly mentioned tongue-incheek
that he couldn’t have graduated
from Wayland today. He culminated
his thanksgiving with a note to the
graduates: “Don’t forget your character
and knowledge.”
The ceremony concluded with the
graduates parading back to the
gathering space outside the gym where
they threw their caps into the air. The
Class of 2009 had become alumni.
Commencement photos by George
Pfoertner `80
www.wayland.org 21
THE CLASS OF 2009