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Junipero Serra High School is known around Southern California and beyond for being a "Serra Family." Today at Serra was another shining example of Cavaliers coming together for a great purpose: Inaugural Grandparents Day. Nearly 100 grandparents attended the first-time event, and the overwhelming response was one of happiness and joy.
Serra grandparents, accompanied by their grandchildren, were treated to a full day of activities. Marcus Johnson '10 graduated from Serra and attended the University of California, Davis, and now works in the financial services industry. Williams has since returned numerous times to speak at Serra events, and he began Grandparents Day by sharing his Serra story and how Serra positively changed his perspective on life.
Campus tours were then given by student ambassadors and staff. The group leaders shared with grandparents about Serra's storied history, its present day happenings and hopeful future. Grandparents then attended up to two classes where they received a first-hand look at Serra's college-preparatory environment. The day culminated with a catered, sit-down lunch in Serra's gymnasium.
Joe Cormier '81, Serra's director of development and alumni, along with a committee, orchestrated the eventful day. "I feel an overwhelming sense of love in this room, and we have you to thank," said Cormier. "As you know on a daily basis, it takes a village to raise our young people, and together we are making it happen!"
"Making it happen" was an accurate statement by Cormier, and was reinforced by many Serra grandparents.
Jackie Stevenson Sr., the grandfather of senior Janessa Stevenson '17 and Kariamu Cross '17, liked the work ethic that is instilled in Cavaliers, and says it has helped his granddaughters tremendously. The younger Stevenson plans to attend either the University of California, San Diego, or University of California, Riverside, and major in creative writing. Cross is leaning towards attending the University of Southern California to study medicine. "The faculty is very dedicated and education is important to our family. I appreciate how close-knit and personal Serra feels, " commented Stevenson Sr.
Leo Harris, grandfather of freshmen Lauryn Carter, was impressed with the overall environment. "Serra is just a really nice place to attend school," said Harris.
Junior, Chasydi Ramclam '19, and grandmother, Lorraine Walker, were all smiles as the day concluded. "I just liked spending the day with my granddaughter as we just had a really nice day, " said Walker. "My granddaughter is in good hands."
Grandparents Day 2017 was a collective success. Serra plans to the host the event again next year, and for many more years to come.