President’s Remarks at Ring Liturgy and Ceremony

September 1, 2011

Before I address our seniors, I want to congratulate and thank their parents and guardians for all they have sacrificed to have their young lady here tonight.  We are all aware of what you must give up to make certain your daughter can obtain a great education.  Mother Cabrini said that the greatest gift anyone can give to a young girl is a good education.  Thank you for giving that gift to your daughters.

Now - Congratulations, ladies.  You’ve taken another small step towards Saturday, May 19.  There’s a long road ahead, but each day you come closer to becoming an alumna of Cabrini High.

Tonight, in reality, you entered into a very exclusive and coveted club.  Tonight you became part of a small group of women who have the right to wear the Cabrini ring.

You have worked hard to get to tonight.  You have struggled through starting at a new school four or five years ago and having to make friends all over again.  Now you have 89 sisters.

You have suffered through minors, and some of you even majors.  You have endured math challenges, bad jokes from your teachers, mystery food in the cafeteria, wind, rain, and even snow.  But you don’t look any the worse for wear.

You have your senior sweaters that you’ll wear in 100 degree temperatures because “You earned the right!  You received your Hat from your litter sister and your dog from you junior sister.  Tomorrow night you’ll be the only Cabrini students allowed in the Ring Dance.  A very exclusive club indeed.

You have had the privilege of walking, playing, and praying on Holy Ground.  You have risen to challenge after challenge academically, athletically, and emotionally.  You are beginning to understand why mediocrity is not acceptable and you are sooo tired of hearing it.

You have just a few more miles to go in the journey.  During your time here and for the rest of your lives, Mother Cabrini has been and will continue to be by your side always prompting you to think before you act and think twice before you speak.

You entered here a nervous little girl and you will leave here a growing, confident, educated young woman who will Stand Among Great Women.

Congratulations again.  I am very proud of you all.

Ardley R. Hanemann, Jr.
President