June 10, 2019 - Shenzhen, China – Eleven Grade 12 scholars took to the stage on June 10, 2019 in celebration of their outstanding achievements in their studies and the completion of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) and the New Brunswick Diploma at the International School of Nanshan Shenzhen (ISNS).
This year’s theme, chosen by Grade 12 students, was Time Flies. The theme was selected to reflect the rapidness of time and the importance of utilizing and seizing each moment – a testament of the student body at ISNS; where each day they take every opportunity to make something greater.
The Class of 2019 applied, and were accepted to, top universities in Canada, the United States, Hong Kong, Europe, and the United Kingdom.
Prominent figures from the community were in attendance including the ISNS Chairman, Dr. Francis Pang and members of the Pang family. Government officials also attended the event including Ms. Liu Jin Ying, Section Chief of Management Division for Schools Run by Non- Government Sectors, Shenzhen Education Bureau（刘金英女士，深圳市教育局社会力量办学处科长）and Ms. Liu Shi Qi, Section Chief of Basic Education Division, Head of Foreign Exchange and Cooperation Office, Nanshan Education Bureau（刘世琦女士，南山区教育局基础教育科科长、对外交流与合作办公室主任）. In addition, the leadership team from the Shenzhen (Nanshan) Concord College of Sino-Canada were in attendance. ISNS alumni, parents, and friends also joined the occasion, supporting this memorable milestone event.
It has been a tradition for the Chairman of ISNS, Dr. Francis Pang, to address the graduating class and this year was no different. Dr. Pang took the occasion to remind the graduates of the road they traveled, the obstacles they overcame and the community that supported them along the way. In addition, he pointed out, that because of their accomplishments “as talented artists and musicians…gifted athletes…effective leaders…and focused, driven students…ISNS has been able to grow into the school it is today.”
The ceremony highlighted the incredible talents of students as well as the experiences they all shared during their time at ISNS. In addition to the presentation of diplomas, three students were specially noted for their incredible dedication to academics and the ISNS community.
The Birks Medal, awarded to a devoted ISNS student who exhibited the most leadership in student affairs was presented to Mr. Long F. The Governor General’s Award presented to the highest overall academic standing in both Grade 11 and Grade 12 was bestowed upon this year’s valedictorian, Ms. Christine T. and the Head of School Award presented to the student who made significant contributions to the School was awarded to Ms. Olivia J.
“We’re incredibly proud of this year’s graduates for everything they’ve achieved, as well as all their contributions to our school community,” applauds, Mr. Patrick Boekhoud, ISNS MYP/DP Principal. “They [graduates] will be missed and we wish them the very best of luck for the future!”
Cumulatively, the ISNS Class of 2019 have obtained 237,350 USD in scholarship offers at this time in the year which is indication to the outstanding academic achievements of our students as well as their dedication to the school community. “Can the ISNS Class of 2019 make us prouder?” exclaimed Mr. David Swanson, Head of School. “These talented young men and women have achieved great success with the completion of their studies in the IB programme along with their acceptance into top universities around the world. We know they will make a positive impact on the world as they go forward.”
At ISNS, we rejoice in the worth of every student. The 2019 graduation ceremony was testament to the individual success of each student leaving the School and embarking on their next chapter. The global leaders that stood before the community, stood proud of their commitment to their work, their connection to the community, their pride in who they are and where they come from and their excitement to make an impact.
Mr. Brian Kelley, IB Diploma Programme Coordinator, noted, “They embody all of the qualities of an ISNS Phoenix. In addition, our community is confident that we are graduating another cohort of compassionate, globally minded, life-long learners who will make a difference in the world and empower others to do the same.”
Congratulations to the Class of 2019.
