Academy of Finance Graduation

Two top ranked students (highest GPA, leadership and citizenship) from each of the four Academies of Finance (AOF) – Corliss, Julian, Schurz and Simeon – were asked to submit essays in response to the Senior Project developed by the Business Cluster Advisory Board. This year’s senior project was based on the students three year experience in the AOF. Essays were reviewed and graded by members of the Advisory Board as well as several CPS Central Office staff members. Essays were judged on Grammar, Content, Clarity, Originality, Thoroughness and Professionalism. The top ranking essay writer was awarded the title of Valedictorian and the runner up, Salutatorian. The top awardees were awarded CitiGroup Scholarships.

AOF Valedictorian
Carissa Eclarin – Schurz $2,500 (University of Chicago – Economics & Political Science)
AOF Co-Salutatorian
Jamequa Walker – Simeon $1,500 (Alabama A&M – Finance)
Katie Rosales – Schurz $1,500 (Wright College – Marketing)

Each participating senior received a Certificate of Completion for finishing the three year CTE program. In addition, each of the students completed the W!SE Financial Literacy Certification this year. One of the highlights of this year’s program was the return of the 2010 Valedictorian, Diante Castine, Corliss AOF, to introduce the guest speaker, Craig Marchbanks, AVP of the Federal Reserve and CPS Graduate (Kenwood Academy). A very special Thank You to Advisory Board Member Cindy Ivanac-Lillig of the Federal Reserve for hosting this year’s graduation program. Thank you to all the students, teachers, parents, administrators, Advisory Board Members and guests who participated in this wonderful event! Congrats to all!