San Miguel Program Holds 17th Commencement

By Jennifer L. Warren

NEWBURGH – Kenya Soriano deeply reflects, smiles, and eagerly relates two memories which will forever be etched upon her mind and heart during her three and a half year tenure at San Miguel Program: The 7th Grade Class Trip to Pepsi Company and the Red Tails Summer Camp aviation classes she took.

“The trip was one big one we all took together- boys and girls- as a class which felt like a big friend group, not a school trip, something just for pleasure which really bonded us,” related Soriano, clad in her school’s navy blue dress and white polo shirt uniform. “The four days of aviation class scholarship really helped shape my leadership skills which led to helping teach young students at the Armory every week; the whole experience has not only taught me so much about planes but communication, teamwork and leadership.”

Soriano was one of 14 San Miguel Program 2026 Class members to be awarded her diploma-along with other esteemed honors- Friday night inside the school’s Gymnasium. Surrounded in the back by an entourage of rowing machines, a trademark activity at the school whose motto bears the message, “Breaking the Cycle of Poverty through Education,” this year’s class carried the distinction of a further accolade: the 20 year anniversary since its inception in July, 2006. Beginning in 5th grade, the 12 year program, with a pivotal family partnership epicenter, extends through college and career readiness.

True to the San Miguel Program tradition, this year’s Commencement once again brought back several alumni, both as speakers and guests, revealing the ongoing commitment of the school to its graduates as well as providing powerful models to its present population. Following the Prayer led by 2026 Class member, Micah Fisher, Lt. Luis Jimenez, United States Navy and graduate of the San Miguel Class of 2013, led the Pledge of Allegiance. Next, Father Mark Connell, introduced and had stand the Class of 2026, citing his “high hopes for each of them.” The Commencement Address was then delivered by San Miguel Class of 2011 graduate and first ever San Miguel Program Board member, Secretary, Henry Garcia.

“I’m talking to you as a kid who went here,” said Garcia, who recalled touring the school as a youth and being allured by the small classes, lunch camaraderie and overall, close family atmosphere, along with major motivator: His parents. “I didn’t get where I did alone; it took a support network, and the real purpose of this school is how it sets a trajectory for young men and women for success.” Garcia, alluding to the legacy of San Miguel flowing through those who have been a part of it, then went on to leave the Class of 2026 with three pieces of advice; “Plan your motivation, adversity is coming, don’t ever give up; there are always mountains to conquer, and seize every opportunity presented to you.”

A graduate who has already shown his ability to put those lessons to action is Valedictorian, Nicholas Hernandez, a four year member of San Miguel, who found his potential and place through the rowing program. Initially nervous when entering the halls of the school, in awe of the expectations that lie in front of him, Hernandez discovered his calling when he stepped into a rowboat, taking on one of its most critical roles.

“Rowing helped build my confidence, especially as a coxswain, who is the one giving orders to those in the boat, discovering they really came to appreciate me,” explained Hernandez.” In eighth grade I really became a leader, especially with the rowers and success in school; I will miss my classmates most of all but happy to know they will all be moving on and succeeding.”

Hernandez, who will be continuing on to high school, attending St. Benedict’s Prep in the fall, referred to his rewarding journey at San Miguel during his Valedictorian Speech.

“While here, I realized who I wanted to be, not just as a student but a person,” said Hernandez. “To be a leader you can’t force it; you have to find it.”

Similar to Hernandez, Soriano, who will continue on her scholastic road, attending Mount Academy, had nothing but brimming gratitude over her initially scary (leaving friends comfort of public school) and ultimately transformative decision to enroll at San Miguel Program.

“It was the best decision of my life,” said Soriano. “My mom says I have a habit of not wanting to do something at first, but then I really stick with it; it’s what happened with coming here and now when I look back, I would honestly do it all over again.”