Candlelighting Passes ‘the Flame of Leadership’ in Upper School

A beloved and beautiful St. Margaret’s tradition continued on Thursday, as leadership of the student body was ceremoniously transferred from the Class of 2019 to the Class of 2020 during the annual Candlelighting ceremony in the Chapel.

Each member of the senior class lit a candle of a junior class member inside the dark Chapel, beginning with outgoing ASB president Sarah Thurin and incoming ASB president Thomas Hughes. The candles symbolized the passing of leadership, as the tradition takes place during the senior class’ final days on campus.

“While the Class of 2020 will receive the flame of leadership, the classes of 2021 and 2022 join them in the responsibility to lead next year,” Upper School Principal Jeneen Graham said. “For all of you, today is the day you move to make space for the class behind you.”

The ceremony featured moving remarks from The Reverend Linda Ahron, Dr. Graham, Sarah Thurn and Thomas Hughes, as well as memorable music performances by several students.

Gilbert Chung and Emily Sun performed “True Colors” during the lighting, while Miranda Gilbert and Zoe Mellard performed the traditional piece “Go Light Your World” with the Highlander Chorale at the end of the ceremony. Kevin Zhu performed piano instrumentals during the lighting.

After the final musical performance, the Class of 2019 blew out their candles to symbolize the end of their time at St. Margaret’s.

“Congratulations to the class of 2019, we will miss our seniors, their leadership and their stewardship of the school,” Dr. Graham said. “You are loved and we wish you well on your next journey.”