DMD Seniors

"Shukri, it has been a great honor to have been your teacher for so much of your time at Kearny. You are a powerful leader and incredibly innovative. You have such a kind heart and perspective. I know that you will be so successful in all that you pursue in the next chapter of your life. I can't wait to see what you accomplish."

-Ms. Thompson

"The real Mr. Big is that smart Venezuelan kid who can do anything. I look forward to hearing of the many accomplishments you are yet to achieve. You embody a 'can do' attitude that will allow you to go places and brighten them with your presence."

-Mr. Hatch

"Julia: I will never forget the beautiful sketchnotes you did as we were reading Their Eyes were Watching God. You are a truly talented artist and an insightful person. I appreciate how thoughtful and caring you always were toward all of your classmates. I will miss you, but I know the world is just waiting for you!"

-Ms. Kost

"Elayna, it has been a great pleasure to watch your creative talents blossom during your time here at DMD. You've never shied away from any challenge, working solo or as a supportive member of a team. A true original spirit for the world to enjoy."

-Mr. Walsh

"You are a living example of academic excellence and creative genius. Chyna, as a teacher it is rewarding to see someone make the most of their inherent talents, and you have given us so many examples of your creative innovations to enjoy. I have the feeling that this world is about to embrace your excellence as we have over the last four years."

-Mr. Walsh

"Emily, I am so proud of you! Your perseverance and dedication to your school work has been amazing. Keep working on your goals and dreams. You have come a long way and you made it to graduation!"

-Best, Ms. Cruz

"Emily, you are such an incredible and sweet young lady. I have always appreciated your quiet confidence and willingness to always try. Your hard work and perseverance will take you far. I will miss having you sit in my classroom in the mornings before school starts. I feel confident that you will do great things in the world. Keep shining brightly."

-Ms. Thompson

"Montee, I will never forget the day you joined us at DMD. You brought a much needed focused energy to our biology class, and you continued with that level of collaborative problem solving throughout your entire time at DMD. You saved us during Junior year by collaborating with Jericho on our gift to the Midway staff. Whenever you were in my class, I knew that I had a dependable student who was always willing to help others in any way that you could. I will miss you. Good luck in your endeavours, the world is in need of your empathy and kindness."

-Ms. Thompson

"Max, it has been an honor to watch you learn, grow, and persevere through all of the difficult times. You wear your passions and your pains on your sleeve as a badge of honor and your willingness to learn and be vulnerable has been so special to witness. Don't lose your humor, but merge it with the man of integrity, humility, and maturity you are becoming. Keep being brave."

-Mr. Robson

"Julliani: it was such an honor to be your teacher. I will always admire your strong work ethic and the insights you brought to our classroom discussions. I appreciate how kind you always were to me. You have a brilliant mind and I cannot wait to see the great things you do!"

-Ms. Kost

"Julliani, you truly blew me away at cap and gown photos in our short conversation. You are transforming into the young man that is telling of what a great man you will be. I wish you all of the best in your service and I hope that you let us know how you are doing. It was such a gift to see the way you hold yourself and how determined you are to accomplish your goals."

-Ms. Parker

"Wilmer, I am so appreciative of our time together. You have the ability to bring joy to others while still delegating tasks and making deadlines. These are the markings of a true leader. You advocate for others with empathy and kindness, and your artistic abilities coupled with your attention to detail made me feel like I may have learned more from you this year than you learned from me. I am so proud of you, and I cannot wait to see what your future holds. Congratulations!"

-Ms. Murray

"David, I have watched your academic growth and personal dedication to self improving over the years and it is amazing. I think you really personify the saying: 'Be Who You Are' because you are able to rise up to any challenge and successfully master the skills needed to come out on top. I hear the fireworks, do you...Good job!"

-Mr. Walsh

"Walter, I am so grateful for all of the time I was able to spend getting to know you over the past four years. Not only did I teach you almost every year, but all of the mornings, afternoons, and evenings spent in class and at ASB events allowed me to see how truly selfless, hard working, and thoughtful you are. I will always remember the way you would step in to help me and anyone who needed it without a second thought. I am so proud of you and so excited to see all of the future success you have coming your way."

-Ms. Parker

"Asia, besides being enterprising and investigative, your true talent lives in your artistic creativity. You are a unique and kind person who is never afraid to be yourself. Can't wait to see how you use your creativity to make the world a better place."

-Ms. Clay

"Ana, watching you grow and apply your gifts since Freshman year in communicating, designing, and project management has been inspiring. Your thoughtful and fun Feeding San Diego media showing your considerate and playful side and this year's Senior Project with Office of Emergency Services demonstrating your mastery of a complex and challenging subject that rightfully gained such praise from the community. Keep on rockin' Ana."

-Mr. Walsh

"Vincent, it has been so wonderful to watch you grow into the respectful young man that you are. I will truly miss your visits to my class all of the time. You have a smile that always stood out when you walked into a room. I wish you the absolute best in this next part of your life, I'm sure you will be successful in whatever you decide to do. Please come by and say hi!"

-Ms. Parker

"Congratulations Vincent! You are an intelligent, respectful and great young man. I know you have an amazing future keep reaching for your goals."

-Best, Ms. Cruz

"Dailyly, it has been so nice to not only see you as the bright, talented, and kind person that you are, but also as an incredible role model and big sister. Your selfless nature and consideration for others are qualities that you should be proud of. I am so happy to see where this next chapter takes you!"

-Ms. Murray

"Kelly, it has been wonderful to see you grow over the last four years of high school. I am so very proud of the way you transformed from someone who didn't take school seriously, into a young woman who is confident in her skills and follows through with her work. I have no doubt in my mind that you will go off into the world and do amazing things, no matter what path you choose. If I am ever lucky enough to have a daughter, I would be extremely proud if she turned into half the person you have become. You can do anything. Read that last line again. Internalize it. You can do anything."

-Mr. Young

"Congratulations Kelly! I still remember telling you freshman year that I hoped by the time you were a senior you would like me and our relationship would be better :) I always knew you had the potential to graduate. You worked so hard this year I am so proud of you. I hope you realize how special you are. You are intelligent, caring, fierce and beautiful; keep reaching for your dreams!"

- Best, Ms. Cruz

"Diego, your energy was next level. You could befriend anyone, that is why it was so hard to find a place for you in a seating chart, if you didn't know them, you and they would be chatting it up in no time! Your relational warmth and willingness to learn has been so unique and special. You are beloved by your classmates and teachers and we are all so excited to see where life takes you and the impact you will have on the world. Thank you for the ways that you love and accept those around you, keep it up."

-Mr. Robson

"Ty Chuan Do, your calm and easy going attitude makes you someone who everyone can admire. You are confident in a way that does not need to be accompanied by a huge look at me type personality. You know you are intelligent, funny, kind, athletic, and you don't need to prove it to anyone. Keep appearing to coast through life as you work hard behind the scenes to improve yourself and add value to the world."

-Mr. Young

"Jonathan, your easy going manner and work ethic and drive make you a great student creator. You're willing to take feedback and improve your work, and have never not shown great support for your fellow students. You rock."

-Mr. Walsh

"Shhht! Nako! Anyway, Judiel, I will always remember the maturity, kindness, and laughter that you brought to our math and PE classes. At the time I had no idea how to run a class and was still figuring out how to present the material in a way that kept students engaged. You were one of the few students that continued to keep himself engaged by asking questions, doing the work, and even helping those around you-no matter what other students were doing. As a result, you were one of the students that made me feel, 'Hey, maybe I can do this whole teaching thing...'. Being kind and doing the right thing is difficult especially when everyone around you isn't necessarily doing the same, yet you continued to lead by example. I will always remember you as a man of character, someone who has always done the right thing even when no one was looking. Thank you for being you and for being part of my Kearny experience! The world is lucky to have you."

-Mr. Holland

"Anthony, your warm heart and charisma have shone bright throughout your time at Kearny. The way that you show up for the people in your life no matter what is something that can't be taught. Thank you for all of the laughter and wonderful memories over the last four years. I know there have been many challenges along the way, but you have met them head on and pushed through no matter how difficult. I am so excited to see you continue to learn more about yourself and realize all that you have to offer the world. I look forward to hearing about your future endeavors and all they bring into your life. I am so proud of you!"

-Ms. Parker

"Congratulations Anthony! I am so proud of you! You are a strong, smart and polite young man with a big heart! I know sometimes life may seem overwhelming but you have the drive and desire to reach your goals. I loved watching you motivate and inspire your teammates during football. You are a quiet, natural leader. We will miss you at DMD but I can't wait to see all you do with your future."

-Ms. Cruz

"Salome, it has been so wonderful to see you grow. Thinking about your defense still brings tears to my eyes. You are strong and kind, and your ability to persevere through challenges will bring you great success. Congratulations!"

-Ms. Murray

"Jericho, I sincerely enjoyed having you as a student! You were a bright spot on some of my more difficult days. I appreciate that I could count on you to be focused, mature, and hold yourself to high standards. With your poise, work ethic, and kind personality, you will achieve a lot in life!"

-Ms. Farrar

"Linda, Congratulations! I am so proud of you. Your dedication to your studies was amazing to watch. 'Your life is your story, and the adventure ahead of you is the journey to fulfill your own purpose and potential' Kerry Washington. I know you have the strength to succeed in whatever you set your mind to!"

Best, Ms. Cruz

"Jeremiah, one of the best things I can say about anyone, is that they get things done. Jeremiah, you are a closer, and you know how to deliver the goods with unique perspective and understanding. You work hard, without complaining or avoiding responsibility. And you persevere and make those around you better."

- Mr. Walsh

"Caroline, it has been beautiful to watch you transform and open up over the past four years. You came to us a sweet, but sassy ninth grader and you leave us a strong, caring, and determined young woman. Your strength and perseverance will continue to guide you through life's challenges, paving the way to your dreams. We are so PROUD of you and the person you are becoming. Stay open to all of the experiences and opportunities life brings you because you have so much to give to the world."

-Ms. Thompson and Ms. Parker

"Congratulations Caroline! Oh I have so much I want to say to you :) I am so thankful that we were able to build our relationship over the past year. I'm honored that you trusted me. You are an intelligent, caring, fierce and beautiful young woman. I'm going to miss you! Take pride in how far you’ve come I'm so impressed with your strength. Have faith in how far you can go and all that you will do with your amazing life!"

-Love, Ms. Cruz

"Reed, I am grateful to have had you as a student. I have watched you grow creatively and it is very rewarding as a teacher to see you gain confidence and improve. You never backed away from a challenge, taking on increasing responsibilities, and always striving to improve your work. The best part of working with you was watching you do it all with a great attitude."

-Mr. Walsh

"Reed, I can still remember the first time I realized that you have a very unique gift. It was the first week in Spanish 1-2, and I was explaining the Spanish-speaking countries quiz. I threw out some random questions about Spanish-speaking countries that I wasn't sure anyone would know. But sure enough, a hand went up--yours--and you knew the answer. I thought, wow, this kid must have really paid attention in history! But I have realized it's much more than that. There have been countless more times that I have been astonished by what seems to be a computer in your brain! I appreciate that you have a strong desire to learn, you pay attention, and you seem to retain everything! But at the same time, you are never arrogant, and you have patience for those who do not learn as quickly as you do. Your Spanish is very, very good, and I hope that you continue to take Spanish courses if you can. I look forward to hearing of your future success!"

-Ms. Farrar

"Iris, I know it has been a couple years since we were in the same classroom, but I do remember how pleasant it was to have you as a student. Seeing a student who, from the very beginning, was able to show up, complete their work, and ask for help whenever they needed it made teaching you such a wonderful experience. However, it's important for you to know that not only was my experience teaching heightened from your presence, but other students experience learning was heightened from being around you as well. Whether you know it or not, you lead by example. Students would see you asking for help, and all of a sudden they weren't afraid to ask for help either. Students around you would see you working, and they would work too. Students would see you still working even when I was on the other side of the classroom, and guess what, they would still be working too. Kearny is lucky to have had you, a natural leader, as a student, and I'm excited to see who else you will inspire in the future. Thank you for being you!"

-Mr. Holland

"When I think about my experiences with students in the classroom, there is a select group of students that have always stood out to me, those that are genuinely kind, hard-working, and grateful. You are one of these students. During our short experience together in our math class, I noticed that you expressed your kindness by always happily helping those around you even when it meant you wouldn't finish your work in time. The other students looked to you as another teacher and role-model in the classroom that they could learn from, and I thank you for that. You always went above and beyond helping others, but you always made sure to go above and beyond for yourself as well. You always challenged yourself, attempting any and all extra credit problems, all with a humble maturity that showed me how ready you are to be successful in whatever aspect of life you choose. Thank you for being you!"

-Mr. Holland

"Hassan, in the past four years you have truly transformed into a respectful, thoughtful, and driven young man. We are all so proud of you and wish you the best in your continued growth and accomplishments. I have no doubt that you will be successful in your coming years because you have the mindset and skills needed to overcome anything that is thrown at you. Best wishes to you; I look forward to hearing all about this next part of your journey and seeing where it takes you!"

-Ms. Parker

"Hassan, my first year teaching freshmen, I was completing my master's degree in Education requiring that I film some of my lessons and have other teachers observe me. My favorite memory of freshmen you was captured on one of those videos as you and and Denauje danced in the back of the classroom while my back was turned. I feel like I got to see you transform over your time at Kearny into the mature young man who wins science awards for asking interesting questions. You embody all that is DMD. I know that great things are in your future. I hope that you remember all that you learned (beyond academics) and shine your light brightly on the world. Go forth and do good."

-Ms. Thompson

"Khang, it was great to see you in your Senior year, as you worked hard, every day, on projects in my class. I saw your innovation and creativity blossom. You have so much to be proud of from your time here at Kearny. Having English as a second language did not stop you from working with your teammates and creating some great media for your client. I know that you will continue to improve with whatever you put your mind to, because you demonstrate perseverance in every challenge you overcome. Best to you."

-Mr. Walsh

"What time is it? Time for some amazing!! Amazing creativity and original ideas. Renson, I got a front row seat and a first hand view into your Senior project that was so cool to witness come together. You took responsibility for the challenge of making media that will really affect people's lives and help them make good life choices. Your creative risks paid off huge. The innovative style you brought to the project was one of a kind. Best of all, you took the feedback and went above and beyond for the client in making good deliverables better. Well done, now the rest of your life awaits - and I'm sure you'll end up a winner. "

-Mr. Walsh

"Ronson, you have well established your own unique, creative, and intellectual identity over the years here at Kearny. Watching you develop your ideas and get the job done took perseverance, and you have that. I am so lucky to have had you twice over the course of your High School career. Seeing you take on the challenges of the Senior Project and delivering great work, responding to feedback with amazing results, was so rewarding. Komet Pride. Bravo."

-Mr. Walsh

"Lilian, your continuous dedication and hard work over the last four years have been such a gift to witness. I have truly enjoyed all of our conversations about gratitude, mindfulness, and how to maneuver life's challenges. I am so proud of you and the young woman you already are and I can't wait to see how you continue to grow and share your gifts with the world. Your kind heart, generous spirit, and perseverance are sure to bring you continued success in life. Congratulations!"

-Ms. Parker

"Isabel, you have an infectious smile and vibrant personality that lights up a room. Your work has steadily improved each and every year. It is a joy to watch you with your friends and you really seem to enjoy life. Keep up the great attitude, because a positive attitude wins more friends and often gets the jobs over the other applicants because people want to be around your winning energy."

-Mr. Walsh

"Taylor, words can't express how much you have both impacted us and amazed us with your growth. You were our unpredictable fireball, but we could always see the potential you were hiding from the world. The Taylor who stands before us today is thoughtful, accepting, responsible, and has turned that fire into passion for life. As much as we don't want to see you leave, we can already see that you will thrive in this next chapter of your life. We will miss seeing you in the mornings, at lunch...and during class periods you're not supposed to be in. :) Stay on the path you're on, it will take you to all of the places you want to be."

- Ms. Thompson and Ms. Parker

"Shaun, you are a man of few words. It made my day every time you stopped by just to say hi. You have the best heart and have always been so considerate of others working to help anyone you can. I am so proud of you for all that you have accomplished. I know that you are going to do great things in this world. I can't wait to see what you do."

-Ms. Thompson

"Javier, I know that our running joke is that we act like we despise each other but I could only do that with someone who I truly admire. I am so proud of the person you are, and the hard work you put in over the years at Kearny. It had truly paid off. Something I admire about you is that I have never heard you say something negative about anyone. You are a friend to everyone and the kind aura draws people in. Your sense of humor will help you laugh through life's obstacles, while your intelligence and drive will push you to greatness. I am proud of you 3.5!"

-Mr. Young

"Jesse, you always seemed to be getting your butt kicked at Super Smash Bros. in my room at lunch time. Your loyalty to your friends and your sense of humor are the first things that stood out to me. Thank you for the ways that you brought light and laughter to the classroom and loved those around you."

-Mr. Robson

"Ron John Silver, you have really come a long way from Sophomore year when you would roll up to my class half awake and thirty minutes late. You were always polite, funny, and way too smart to be not turning assignments in. As a senior, I saw you become the human I knew you were. You took school seriously and became a role model for younger Komets. You dropped the bad habits like being tardy and became responsible and reliable. Not only did you follow through on your responsibilities at school but you added more to your plate, working hard to get your first job. You should be very proud of all that you have accomplished and all that you are going to accomplish in the future."

-Mr. Young

"Quiet yet steadfast. Diego you are a man of mystery at times because of your silence. People do not always get to know you for who you really are because they do not take the time to listen, but those who do, those who know you for who you really are, they are so incredibly blessed. You have insight, wisdom, ideas, and strategies. You are brilliant beyond words and patient. Thank you for who you are and who you are becoming, I cannot wait to see where you will go."

-Mr. Robson

"Daisy, having you as a student was such a joy. While you may have seemed shy to me at first, I quickly learned how much depth you have beneath the surface. You are kind, strong, and intelligent. Congratulations on all of your accomplishments so far. I can't wait to see what's next!"

-Ms. Murray

"Lorena, I really loved our time together. You are a wonderful student, and a caring and empathetic friend. I am so proud of you and everything that you have done, and I am looking forward to hearing about all of your successes in the future! Congratulations."

-Ms. Murray

"Claudia, you are a quiet, humble winner. I have been fortunate to see your growth and maturity blossom while at Kearny. You have a careful eye, always looking for the last detail to improve a project, and often stay late to get things done. Good fortune and luck will come to the patient and the wise. So, you got that going for you."

-Mr. Walsh

"Danny, I am so impressed by how much you grew from freshman to senior year. You have developed into a young man that shows up ready to work, asks for help when needed, and works hard to accomplish his goals. You may be quiet, but you have a lot of great ideas and talents to share with the world. I'm proud of you and what you have accomplished."

-Ms. Clay

"Danny, it's been a pleasure to have worked with you your entire high school career! Over the past four years I have had the opportunity to watch you grow into a mature young adult. You are motivated to do well and I know you will do your best no matter what path you decide to take I'm so proud of you for never giving up on your goal of obtaining this diploma!"

-Ms. Hughes

"Karla, you are a kind-hearted, empathetic, and hard working soul. I have always admired and respected how genuinely kind you were to everyone you interacted with, and even with me. Not many people can inspire others to be kind by simply being themselves, but this will always be a trait that will be uniquely yours. Being able to inspire change in others in this fashion is a sign of a leader, someone that people will want to listen to and look up to. You have always been a great student, and an even more wonderful person, and everyone has always known that. If more students carried themselves like you, the world would be a much more pleasant place. Thank you for being you!"

-Mr. Holland

"Andres, you are a man of deep reflection and insight. Thank you for the ways that you ask intentional questions that penetrate the facade of others and speak to their core. Thank you for the ways you love those around you, your family, classmates, and teachers. It has been so fun to be your teacher and to see the ways you have grown to know who you are, your gifts and passions, and to truly love and embrace your identity."

-Mr. Robson and Ms. Kost

"Armando, you have grown fast. I cannot begin to explain the ways that you have changed over the last 4 years. You have moved from quiet and reserved, to confident and humble. You are so capable to whatever you put your mind to. Thank you for the ways you were willing to grow and the dedication you have shown both in the classroom and the ways that you serve those around out outside of it. It has been an honor to be your teacher."

-Mr. Robson

"Congratulations Alejandra! Your hard work and dedication has paid off. I'm very proud of you. Keep reaching for your dreams!"

- Best, Ms. Cruz

"Alejandra, having the opportunity to see you grow in confidence and ability has been such an honor for me. I still have so many of the kind notes that you would leave on my computer, and you always have had the ability to light up a room with your joyful spirit. Thank you for sharing your spark with me. Parangaricutirimicuaro!"

-Ms. Murray

"Sam, I commend you for your efforts and dedication over the past four years. It fills me with great pride to see you graduate because I know how hard you worked to make this dream a reality. Your graduation is a direct result of your hard work. I know you'll have a future full of many great achievements and accolades. Congratulations on your graduation and best wishes for your next adventure!"

-Ms. Hughes

"Kenneth, I always admired your sense of humor and many talents. You have grown from someone who was often late to class, to someone who gave up a week of their summer to help incoming freshman. Your kind welcoming attitude will continue to give you opportunities to lead others. You are a master videographer and editor whose creativity will continue to grow roots in all aspects of your life. Congratulations."

-Mr. Young

"Arnulfo, I'm so proud of the countless hours of study and hard work that you've put into finishing your courses. Your motivation to do well in all that you do is inspiring! I admire your work ethic and have heard wonderful things about you from your current employer. You are a good citizen and a good friend to your peers. I wish you nothing but the best in your future endeavors!"

-Ms. Hughes

"Wow, it has felt like you just got here. It was so fun to not only be your teacher but your coach. Thank you for the ways that you are always so ready to learn and grow. You have a drive that is going to take you so far in life. Thank you for the ways that you have remained humble in your brilliance and confident in your abilities. You will be missed, both on the golf course and in the classroom."

-Mr. Robson

"Anthony, You have been a joy at DMD. You are consistently polite, kind, and respectful. I always enjoy running into you and catching up. I appreciate your dedication to school and our community I am excited to see what is next for you. Good luck in everything to come!"

-Ms. Workman

"Verenice, getting to be your teacher was such a joy for me. Not only were you always kind and inclusive, but your sense of humor always made being your teacher so much fun. Thank you for having creativity and passion in everything that you do."

-Ms. Murray

"Daniel. What a wild ride, from quiet and reserved to confident and passionate, watching your senior defense left me so proud. I am so proud of the man you have become, the wild and difficult things you have overcome. I am proud of the way you have not only overcome, but you have made resilience your story, you have shown that you are a man who cannot and will not be stopped by adversity. Thank you for the ways you have overcome your fears and challenges and been example and a model of integrity, excellence, and resilience. You will be missed."

-Mr. Robson

"Alain, you good sir, are a humble all-star. When you take on a project, it is going to be delivered with creativity, originality, flair, and a whole lot of expertise. You let the work speak for itself and it speaks well. (Which is probably good cuz I think you have actually said maybe 27 words to me over the 4 years?) I love the way you learn and apply what you have learned in innovative and engaging ways. I am so happy I was able to see you grow in talent and confidence. I look forward to hearing about your life travels and experiences as you tread your path to greatness."

-Mr. Walsh

"Mario: DMD sure was lucky to get you as a student! I am so glad you joined our school your junior year. You fit in with us perfectly and I always enjoyed hearing your ideas in the classroom; you are wise and authentic. When I met your mom, I told her what a great person you are and I truly meant that. Thank you for always being kind and caring toward others. I am happy I got to be your teacher!"

-Ms. Kost

"Edwin, I really enjoyed having you as a student. Your dedication and hard work are qualities to be very proud of. On top of that, you are so kind and you give me hope for the future. If you are out there working hard and being kind, I know you will influence so many others in a positive way!"

-Ms. Clay

"Jenny, your spirit and joy in contagious. Having you in my class, always with a great attitude, driving work ethic, and creative talents to master the challenges of media is a treat for any teacher. Just thinking of you brings a smile to my face. Thanks for making me a proud Kearny Komet teacher."

-Mr. Walsh

"Ok, I mean really, if I didn't start with the great hair, you might be bummed. But under those wavy locks resides an amazing talent. Your humility about how good you are is refreshing. I can only hope that you find the outlets for your creativity and self expression that rewards you as well throughout your worldly pursuits. Thank you for making teaching fun."

-Mr. Walsh

"Raven, Isaiah, who knows what your first name is. It has been so fun to welcome you to Kearny and to watch the ways you woo those around you. You are charismatic and inspiring, hard-working and fiercely loyal. Thank you for the intentional questions you ask me and those around you. Thank you for the ways that you serve and will continue to serve those around you. Thank you for the man you have been and the man you are maturing into. It's been a privilege to be a companion on your journey."

-Mr. Robson

"Raven, it was such a please to have you as a student. Even though I only had you for one class, I feel that we really got to know each other. I appreciate that you are inquisitive, hard-working, have a sense of humor, and truly seek to understand. If you get the chance, I hope you continue with your Spanish studies!"

-Ms. Farrar

"Angie, since the day you stepped onto campus, you have been a force to be reckoned with. You do not hide your fire for anyone and do not make any apologies for it. Thank you for your courage of authenticity, vulnerability, and a willingness to learn. It has been an honor to watch you learn and grow over the last few years in wisdom and honor. Keep being your true self and refusing to apologize for who you are. Keep fighting and advocating for the marginalized around you. Thank you again for your courage and bravery."

-Mr. Robson

"Quincy, you grew so much during your high school career; probably more than most other students in your graduating class. I know I have told you this a lot, but I am so proud of how responsible and mature you have become. Please continue on this path and I know you will have continued success."

-Ms. Workman

"Quincy, it has a been a pleasure working with you over the last four years. I'm so proud of the progress you have made. Thank you for never giving up! You are a kind, considerate and outgoing young adult. Best of luck to you in all that you do!"

-Ms. Hughes

"Cristina, it has been so magical to watch you blossom into the outgoing, confident and creative young woman you are today. I will always be grateful for the way you welcomed your peers and took the younger students under your wing. I look forward to seeing what new passions you discover and how you continue to grow and succeed with the ones you already have! Best wishes on your next chapter in life."

-Ms. Parker

"Kyle, you had a way of driving your teachers crazy with your brilliance. Your brilliance left you bored at times, however, it was so fun to see the ways that you consumed topics that interested you. Your ambition is contagious and your eye for excellence was well know. Thank you for the ways that you bought in and were willing to learn. It has been an honor to be a part of this small section of your life and I cannot even begin to dream of where life will take you, but I know it will be big."

-Mr. Robson

"Mary, it has been a pleasure to watch you discover your passions over your high school career. You amaze me with your work ethic, dedication, intelligence, as well as musical and artistic talents. You have been a stand out in the DMD community. I look forward to hearing about your continued adventures and successes!"

-Ms. Workman

"Angel, es lo que es. And what it is, is that you are a joy to be around. Watching you learn, try new things, and steadily improve while maintaining a great attitude is all a person can ask for from a teammate, co-worker, or a friend. Vaya con todo."

-Mr. Walsh

"Alec, you have natural gifts at so many things artistic and academic. One of the greatest is your ability to constantly brainstorm original ideas and see them through to the finish. A quick mind, a sharp wit, and never taking the challenges for granted, you have risen to shine. From day one you have fearlessly pursued the joyous side of life in and out of the classroom, and that joy will do you well as you pursue your dreams."

-Mr. Walsh

"BRADLEY!!! Where are you? Well that may have been the mantra for your senior year, but after looking back I know right where you were all the time. You were being creative, being a great friend and teammate, keeping people's spirits up, and always ready for the next challenge. Thank you for letting me be a witness to your success."

-Mr. Walsh

"Derek, you have the creative eye, you have the drive for success, you have the guts to take creative risks, and you will always reap the rewards of perseverance. Thank you for giving me the pleasure of getting to witness great value in your work. When I think of you, I am reminded of the challenge the protagonist Maximus shouts from amid the slaughter in the Coliseum during the movie 'Gladiator' .... 'Are you not entertained?' 'Oh yes we are.'"

-Mr. Walsh

"Emily, you are an extremely talented digital artist with a sarcastic sense of humor that often had me laughing at lunch. Your Sea and Me graphic design work was truly professional grade and I know if you choose to pursue that field of work that you will be successful. I have no idea how I would have completed the yearbook without you last year, your hard work and dedication has paid off considering the fact that you are graduating a year early. I enjoyed talking with you at lunch and I'm so proud of the work you have done at DMD."

-Mr. Young

"Emily, it has been nice to have you in my class after getting to know you through Key Club. I appreciate your STRONG work ethic, attention to detail, and that you hold yourself to high standards. I also appreciate that you're not afraid to speak up and express your opinion. Thank you for the time you have put into improving Key Club, and all the time you put into Spanish 3-4! Wasn't it great having like 6 Key Clubbers in our class?! Students like you make teaching more enjoyable!"

-Ms. Farrar

"Nhan, you have grown so much! You have so many things that make you unique and special, your thumbs are just one of those things. Thank you for the ways that you have been willing to learn, grown, look silly, and have so much fun! It has been an honor to see the ways you have grown in your intelligence and courage. Continue to walk in courage and vulnerability because you have a heart of gold."

-Mr. Robson

"Victor, everything I think about you, I think, 'man, that guy is brilliant! And he seems like he doesn't want anyone to know.' I have loved being continually blown away by your insight and wisdom over the years. I hope that you grow in the confidence of your own brilliance and willingness to share your authentic self with those around you. Thank you for the ways that you have been willing to learn and grow, it's been so great to watch."

-Mr. Robson

"Judith, I enjoyed watching your drive and tenacity to be your best over the years here at Kearny. From a quiet and shy Freshman, to the confident person you have become. I know that your people skills will do you well as you impress your future teachers and bosses with your willingness to learn and apply your creativity to projects of great consequence."

-Mr. Walsh

"Drew, from the moment you arrived at Kearny it was clear to your teachers that you had a calm and maturity about you not often found as early as freshman year. You are a creative wordsmith, an athlete, driven to succeed AND have the kindest heart; such a dynamic combination that is not easy to attain, and yet you have. Thank you for so openly becoming part of the DMD family and sharing all of these different aspects of who you are with your peers and teachers. Your presence and positivity will be missed. Best wishes on your future endeavors!"

-Ms. Parker

"Cierra, when I met you I immediately knew you were someone who was mature and wise beyond their years. I'm pretty sure you saved my job multiple times with all of the help and time you put in creating our yearbooks. You are always dependable and easy to work with, which will give you a huge advantage in life. Thank you for always being a role model in class and a student that other could aspire to be. Yearbook and DMD will not be the same without you. Congratulations and thank you for all of the laughs."

-Mr. Young

"Thank you Vera for your warm smile and positive attitude. Nothing seems too difficult or overwhelming for you to give it your special attention -even going into the Booth! This will allow you to go far in life and I wish you the best."

-Mr. Hatch

"Joe: I loved being your teacher for two years; it gave me the opportunity to see your tremendous growth and I am so proud of you. I watched you persevere through some difficult and challenging times, but you didn't give up. I hope you always remember those moments when you pushed through adversity and came out on the other side even stronger."

-Ms. Kost

"Jon, I am so thankful for all of the time I've spent over the last four years getting to know you. Whether you were growing through a challenge or joking around with your friends, I was always happy to have you around. Thank you for all of the laughter and joy you brought to me, I will truly miss having you in my class everyday. You have so much to offer the world and I hope that you continue to push yourself to discover all of the things you are truly capable of. I know you have a lot of adventure and success ahead of you."

-Ms. Parker

"Latrice thank you for sharing your talent with us - you and the crew saved the USS Midway Showcase! Also your unique ability to ask the right questions, the ones that other students want to ask. Keep following your dreams and keep showing the world that famous smile!"

-Mr. Hatch

"Iris: I am beyond proud of all you have accomplished over these past four years! I feel lucky to have been witness to all of your achievements and success. On many occasions, I saw your fighting spirit and determination. I will never forget unpacking those crazy English 101 essay prompts with you and talking to you about which university you will attend. Your hard work paid off!"

-Ms. Kost

"Ashley, you make teaching fun. I know as I think about your success and your work at school, I can't wait to see what ideas and creativity you will bring to our projects. You bring flair and attention to detail, while remaining entertaining. You humbly accept each success in turn and continue to improve and impress. I see in you so many of the habits of mind and the ESLR's personified. You work hard, create amazing media, and do it all with class and a great affection for those around you."

-Mr. Walsh

"Zarzo, you are funny! Seriously funny. It has been so fun to watch the ways that you have put your heart and soul into the things you create. You have such an infectious spirit that brings joy to all of those around you. Continue to walk in who you know yourself to be because we need more of you in this world!"

-Mr. Robson

"Jose, thank you so much for all of your leadership in yearbook. You are very talented when it comes to creating media, your stencil art pages that you made would impress Banksy himself. You are very quiet in class, but when people get to know you they learn how kind and funny you are. I always appreciated how respectful you were to staff and to fellow students. Please continue to always be kind and creative. Congratulations on beating the game of High School. "

-Mr. Young

"We love and miss you every day, Gerard. You will always be a part of the DMD family and the Class of 2020."