Class of 2009 Graduates, 100% go on to college

6/30/09

Twelve years after they first walked through LEAP’s doors as first graders, 44 seniors in the Class of 2009 became the fifth graduating class of LEAP Academy University Charter School on June 29th. 

Hundreds of enthusiastic parents and family members filled the Walter Gordon Theater at Rutgers–Camden for LEAP’s annual High School Commencement Ceremony and watched their children complete the final step on the road to college. 

LEAP founder and Board of Trustees Chairperson Dr. Gloria Bonilla-Santiago welcomed parents, teachers, and Board members and praised the graduates for their success and perseverance through the years.  She urged every student to focus on the future and to make a commitment to achieving the same success in college, because for the fifth consecutive year seniors achieved 100% college acceptance. 

The evening’s keynote address was delivered by United States Representative Robert Andrews, who has been a close supporter of LEAP since its founding in 1997.  Congressman Andrews congratulated the LEAP seniors on their great achievement and likened their journey to that of President Barack Obama because like him they have all overcome obstacles, troubles, and doubters to achieve their present success. 

During the ceremony, several distinguished seniors were awarded scholarships, including the Edward J. Bloustein Distinguished Scholars Award and the Akman Family Scholarship.  Dr. Santiago also awarded the 2009 Alfredo Santiago Endowed Scholarship to four LEAP graduates: Iesha Tull, Ariel Figueroa, Robert Ransom, and Tyrell Johnson.  In all, LEAP graduates amassed over $500,000 in scholarships and financial aid and will attend colleges like Rutgers University, Rowan University, The College of New Jersey, and Howard University. 

Click here to see Senior Graduation photos.
Photos of the Graduation by Courier Post