As you can see from the picture accompanying this post, the Clinton School Class of 2011 (class five) planted a magnolia tree in the Clinton Presidential Park as part of its class gift. The tree is a special and most generous gift. For years to come it will be enjoyed by the thousands who visit the school, the library and the Clinton Presidential Park. I would like to thank the class members very much.
As part of the recent graduation, David Watterson, a member of the Class of 2011, wrote a Clinton School alma mater which will now be part of the school’s history and heritage. The 2011 graduating class sang it as part of the recessional. A graduate of the Berklee College of Music in Boston, David has performed at many Clinton School-related functions and is a strong advocate of Music National Service. The words of the new alma mater “We Will Build the Bridge” are included in the post below. David, thank you for this lasting legacy.
Special congratulations to graduate Lindsey Johnson who received the Shannon Butler Bridge Builder Award — following in the steps of Julie Gehrki (class 2); J.D. Lowery (class 3); and Harvell Howard (class 4). Lindsey is headed to the University of Pennsylvania School of Law where she has received a major service-related scholarship.
It was great to see several alumni during the graduation week festivities. Guests from 22 states, the District of Columbia, Pakistan and Thailand were in attendance for Saturday’s commencement. Many who attended brought supplies for Our House, a shelter for the working homeless in Little Rock and a long-time Clinton School field service partner.
My appreciation to the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra; to our terrific volunteers for all they do and for for the contribution to our Hope Fund honoring the class of 2011; and a big thank you to Nikolai DiPippa, who coordinated the graduation events and did so with perfection.
*Written by Clinton School Dean Skip Rutherford.
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