As "Pomp and Circumstance" rang out across the packed McMurtrie-Reynolds Pavilion, the Class of Red and White processed in two-by-two in front of family and friends gathered in their honor. Preceding them had been the class of '76, honored jubilarians, who had returned to the school as part of their 50th reunion year celebration. 

 

BSoR President Jesse Grapes recognized the Golden Jubilarians from the Class of 1976, whose colors are Burgundy and Gold. Each Golden Jubilarian present was awarded an honorary diploma by SGHS Head of School Amy Roussy Pickral '95, and Lori Hanky Haas '76 delivered a moving address.

Other speakers during the ceremony included Benedictine Sisters of Virginia prioress Sister Andrea Westkamp, O.S.B., valedictorian Charlotte Sykes, and Salutatorian Rose Borchert. 

 

Class President Teagan Semisch presented a gift to the school from the Class of Red and White, and Song Contest leader Mercy Grapes led the graduates in the Saint Gertrude tradition of singing a song from this year's Song Contest.

 

The Ann Marie Caraker Hancock ’64 Award for Outstanding Leadership and Achievement was presented to Charlotte Sykes. The Lori Savik Memorial Award was presented to Gabriella Gelsomino. The Marian Character Leadership Award was presented to Eleanor Kutz. 

 

After a blessing from Abbot Placid D. Solari ’70, the recessional offered one more glance at the Class of Red and White, with each pair choreographing their exit in their own style, expressing warmth, joy, personality, and sisterhood. 

 

The Class of Red and White consists of 56 Gators who were accepted into 86 different colleges and universities, and matriculated to 26 of them. We are so proud of you – as women of God, as women of Saint Gertrude, as women who will go out and change the world.

Congratulations, Red and White!

 

Please visit the Green Galleries to view and download photos from Graduation, Baccalaureate, Senior Salute and much more.

 

See all photos from SGHS Graduation 2026 here: SGHS Graduation 2026 photos

 

Additional coverage, with photos, videos, program, and more, can be found here: SGHS Graduation page on website