Last week, Lyford Cay International School (LCIS) hosted the graduation ceremony for the graduating Class of 2016 at the Meliã Nassau Beach Hotel. Graduates of the Class of 2016 represent 9 different nationalities and speak 7 different languages. They will attend universities in 5 countries on 3 continents, with nine of the graduates having received over $1.3 million dollars in financial awards for their studies abroad.
The Commencement Address was given by Mr. Vikram Gandhi, Founder of VSG Capital Advisors Pvt Ltd and Founder of Asha Impact. Mr. Gandhi spoke on four ideas which he believes would help the students to lead successful lives - atomic living (knowing when to trust your instincts), essentialism (the relentless pursuit of less), not ‘sweating’ the small stuff and making an impact everyday.
“Focus on what is important to you and cut out the noise,” said Mr. Gandhi, imploring the graduates to find value in the small things of life and to “make an impact on a daily basis.” He went on to say that “The definition of impact is a very personal thing” and that, throughout life, we all must continually ask ourselves, “Did I contribute something meaningful?”
Valedictorian Michael Mindorff delivered this year’s Class Address. Charging the graduates to hold on to the social consciousness and international-mindedness of the International Baccalaureate curriculum they have studied, Michael asserted that “It does not take much to be the light in the dark, to help someone along a path. When it takes so little to make a difference...apathy is inexcusable.” All students in the Secondary School at LCIS are engaged in community service, within and outside the school.
At each graduation ceremony, LCIS acknowledges members of the graduating class who have attended the school for all of their academic lives. These alumni are affectionately known as “Lyford Lyfers.” This year’s newly inducted “Lyfer” was Gabrielle Hollaender. She was presented with a special commemorative award by her first teacher in Junior Pre-K, Ms Colleen Kemp who has worked at LCIS for 26 years.
Before the Co-Chairs of The LCIS Board of Directors and Governors, Bruce Fernie and Bryan A. Glinton, presented the graduates with their diplomas, LCIS Principal Dr. Stacey Bobo gave her address. Impact was a continuous theme throughout the evening, as she not only congratulated the graduates on their many achievements, but also encouraged them to strive to make an impact on the lives of every person they encounter in their futures. “Small acts of kindness can change the path of another person. Nurture positive values by making a difference in your communities” said Dr. Bobo.
Once again, LCIS is extremely proud of the Class of 2016 for their many achievements. Through the present and future successes of these graduates, LCIS is able to achieve its vision of “inspiring excellence,” not only in The Bahamas but throughout the wider world.
Source: Lyford Cay International School
