News Post

The St. Joseph’s Academy class of 2026 graduated on May 19 during commencement exercises at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center on the campus of Louisiana State University.

Dr. Yolunda Taylor, chair of the SJA board of directors, welcomed the large crowd to the celebration of the Academy’s 149th commencement exercises. Principal Stacia Andricain introduced co-salutatorians Tiana Khuri and Sophia Montalbano.

Khuri reflected on the importance of names. “I am lucky to have the name Tiana Marie Khuri and all the titles associated with it,” she said. “It is a reflection of my life stories and those around me. So, the importance of a name lies in the people who use it and the lore behind it. Keeping this in mind, I urge us all to continue growing our name, to create a legacy for ourselves. Whether it be through studying engineering or literature, our names will make a mark not only on our lives, but on the community around us and the world beyond.”

Montalbano spoke of the important role SJA has played in her classmates’ journeys to date. The school, she said, has equipped the graduates to pursue greater things. “We cannot take everything with us on life’s journey,” she said. “Our ships, planes or vehicles can only contain so much. We cannot hold onto everything from our childhood and high school years forever. However, we should hold onto the perseverance, wisdom and courage that we have already gained from good and bad times at SJA. These virtues that we will continue to develop in college and adulthood are far more valuable to our journey to Heaven than any career, accolade or accomplishment could ever be. They will help us to sail through life’s challenges more easily, to love God and neighbor more deeply and lead us ultimately to Heaven.”

Commentator Jenna Braud said the Paschal Candle was part of the evening’s ceremony as a sign of Christ’s light and a unifying symbol of the Catholic faith. She said the six women who gathered around a kitchen fireplace in 1650 France shared a burning desire to serve the dear neighbor. “Sister Joan Laplace will represent that flame and light our Paschal Candle as a reminder that our Sisters continue passing the flame of the spirit of the Sisters – what we know as the charism – to each of us.”

Braud introduced Bishop Michael Duca, school chaplain Father Josh Zelden and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Cindy Ryals. 

Maddie Rambo read from the letter of St. Paul to the Colossians. In offering advice to the graduates, Bishop Duca reflected on the reading. As God’s chosen ones, we are to embrace heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patient and forgiving. “These words teach how to be true disciples and women of God,” he said. “While these words don’t necessarily seem to be the way of the world, they will serve you well. … Let these words live in your heart and lead you.”

Hayley Cavalier and Kendall Dailey led the prayers of the faithful. 

Sarah Guidroz explained that during the candle-lighting ceremony, Kristy Roubique ’76, carried the flame from the Paschal Candle to light the candle of Sanctity representing our traditions and the enduring call to holiness. Hollis Wendell lit the candle of Joy to represent the excitement and promise of carrying the flame out to the world. Both lit the candle of Action as a sign of commitment to a life of service to the dear neighbor. 

SJA President Jan Rhorer Breen ’69 told the graduates to embrace the changes and possibilities they experience on the next steps of their journey. She told them to remember they are SJA women, to listen to their inner voice, to live in a state of gratitude, to be gentle with themselves and others and to remember the meaning of success. “Remember that you cannot change one moment of the past, so grasp the present moment,” she said. “Remain constant and true to yourself, your beliefs and the values you embody as SJA women. You leave holding all that is possible, and you are the change that the world needs.”

Principal Stacia Andricain introduced faculty member Jill Abadie, who called forth the 261 members of the class of 2026 who met all standards for graduation as prescribed by the Academy. Diplomas were awarded by Andricain assisted by Breen, Dean of Academics Aubrey DeJohn, Dean of Women Christina Richardson and Dean of Curriculum and Instruction Melissa Brocato.

Following the conferring of diplomas, Eliza Hanner delivered the valedictory address. She reminisced on moments of stress and doubt which, when overcome, were summed up with one phrase: “Of course you did.”

“When things become difficult and you feel your head dipping below water, I urge you to remember that ‘of course you can,’” she said. “When the world tries and tries to beat you down, to tell you that you aren’t enough, that you have no place being here, stand tall. Look back on what you’ve accomplished, the people who love you and the journey you’ve traveled, and tell yourself, ‘Of course I can.’ You have so many pillars of support and love standing behind you, holding you up. So don’t be afraid to go out, try new things and reach for the stars. And when we meet again in the future, when you’ve all grown into amazing, successful women, my first thought will be, ‘Of course you did.’”

Grace Buras and Molly Kate Skupien served as cantors. The SJA Women’s Choir was under the direction of Danielle Laird and Stephen Galliano. Accompanists were Louis Wendt, keyboard, and Craig Heinzen, trumpet.