News: Briar Woods Graduates an Accomplished Class

Special to VivaLoudoun via Loudoun County Public Schools

(June 22, 2011) - The 332 graduates of Briar Woods High School created a record of success that will be hard to match.

That was the sentiment put forth by Principal Ed Starzenski during Briar Woods' graduation ceremony on Saturday, June 18th, at George Mason University's Patriot Center.


Starzenski noted this group of graduates won the Governor's Award as a School of Excellence, captured three state athletic championships, was ranked by Newsweek and The Washington Post as one of the best schools in the nation and that the band took part in London's New Year's Day Parade.

“I don't know of many principals who could stand in front of a group of graduates and rattle off such an impressive list of accomplishments… Every single one of you sitting before me today contributed to those outstanding feats… You are going to be leaving Briar Woods High School with a legacy that's really going to be difficult to duplicate.

“It's been my pleasure to serve as your principal for the past four years. You are a class that I will fondly remember for years to come.

“I want to thank you for helping to make Briar Woods High School a school of state and national distinction.”

The achievements of the Class of 2011 were certainly impressive.

· 270 students graduated with an Advanced Studies diploma;

· 96 students graduated with a 4.0 grade point average (GPA) or better;

· 38 graduated with a 4.3 GPA or better (an A-plus average);

· More than two-thirds of the graduates completed an Advanced Placement (AP) class;

· 96 percent of the Briar Woods Class of 2011 will go on to college;

· They will attend colleges and universities in 23 states;

· The class earned more than $2.2 million in scholarships and grants.

“The first classes at Briar Woods used to ask ‘How is it possible to begin a tradition?' Our class has proudly established a tradition,” said valedictorian Rahul Gogia.

“We didn't come to school to receive an education; rather, we received a means of education. Learning is a lifelong commitment, as well as the foundation to becoming successful citizens. All that I ask of you guys is that you never stop learning and grow through your experiences.”

Gogia also thanked the high school's staff in his remarks.

“Know that your skill at teaching and personality have made the past four years at Briar Woods exceptionally memorable and worthwhile for all of us.”

Ayse Rhoades was the salutatorian for the Class of 2011.

Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) Dr. Edgar B. Hatrick III asked the graduates to stay connected to what made them successful in high school.

“Every one of you know what the journey has been like to get you to this place in this time. You know when you did your best. You know when you didn't do your best. You know when you had to struggle. You know when it was easy.

“But my guess is, along the way, there were people who prodded you to do your best. Who wouldn't accept the notion that you couldn't do something – even when you, perhaps, thought you couldn't do it…

“Your connection to these folks has not only carried you through high school, but I dare say they'll carry you through a goodly part of your life… Your parents, your brothers, your sisters, your grandparents, your friends, those are the kinds of connections that give you the strength to carry on. Indeed, the connections you have made to one another in this Class of 2011 help you to accomplish what you need to accomplish in life. So as you go forth from this place, create a better place wherever you go. Remember the connections that have allowed you to do as good as you have done. Become that connection for someone significant in your life.”

The Rev. Charles Howard spoke about the power of love during his keynote address.

“Don't be afraid; follow your passion and follow your love…

“There is no fear in love. Remember that, there is no fear in love. You can't be afraid to fail. You can't be afraid to take risks, even if there is a chance you will fall on your face…

“Put yourself out there, even if folks don't believe in you. Because you never know where you will land…

“Love, real love, has got to take you out of yourself… Whatever field you find yourself in, make sure you are doing it with the intent of serving. You're doing it with the intent of making a difference in this world. That's real love.”

Howard had these parting words for the graduates:

“Use your mind, your great education. Use your heart, never give up. But also remember, love changes things. Love changes the world. You have been loved. Now it's time for you to go out and love the world.”

Attending the Briar Woods graduation were School Board Chairman John Stevens (Potomac District), Vice Chairman Priscilla Godfrey (Blue Ridge District), Tom Reed (At-Large) and Bob Ohneiser (Broad Run District).