Congratulations Class of 2009!  While it may have been a dark and rainy day inside the Emmanuel Church of Christ on Friday, June 5th, Link’s Class of 2009 was full of celebration and light. In front of a packed sanctuary of parents, siblings, relatives, Link trustees and staff, Link alumni and friends, sixty-five eighth grade students graduated in an impressive and inspiring ceremony. The ceremonial program began with the traditional procession, led by Link founder, Sister Vivien Jennings, O.P. and Link Principal Marnie G. McKoy, followed by a performance of the Link African Dancers with Mr. Jerome Hunter on the African drum.. Student Quinn Saffold welcomed all to the ceremony and Jed-Joan Edziah presented the student farewell speech. In her comments, Jed-Joan stated, “Link…is a place…where lives like mine are being prepared to conquer the world.” Ms. Paula T. Dow, Essex County Prosecutor, delivered a motivating address to the graduates. Citing both Maya Angelou and the founders of Link Community School as examples of determination, perseverance and belief in one’s self despite challenging obstacles in the way of success, Ms. Dow encouraged students to “keep going” as her examples did. She challenged students to “maintain the desire to excel…seize life’s opportunities…believe you can craft your personal story…reject self doubt…and rebuff self pity.” To conclude her speech, Ms. Dow complimented the students, saying, “As I gaze into your proud eyes…I know that the future bodes well for us all today.” After the students’ rousing rendition of “You Gotta Be Me” by Desiree, Ms. McKoy and Link Board of Trustees Chair, Ms. Wendy Lacey conferred the diplomas on the students. Vice Principal Keisha Cleveland –Baptiste and staff presented the academic awards and Director of Admission and High School Placement La Toro Yates, the annual Alumni Award and laptop computer to Jed-Joan Edziah. Chinedu Okorofor was awarded the Academic Excellence Award for the highest grade point average in the class over two years and Jamee Adams received the Founder’s Award for the student who has best personified the Core Values and the school’s mission and vision while at Link from Sister Vivien Jennings. Principal McKoy’s address to students was a “thank you for what you have taught me” over the past two years – “not to be afraid to say no,” “to make a place for yourself where you want to be,” and “when one door is closed, another will be opened.” She urged students to remember all of these points “you taught me” throughout their life journeys. She wished the graduates great success, “the kind of success you will be astonished that you are so successful…the kind of success that you inspire others…to go back and get their dreams.” After the principal’s address, the outgoing Student Government officers, Jamee Adams and Jed-Joan Edziah, enthusiastically led the graduating class in Link’s “call and response” and the school song. Graduates and their guests were invited to return to school for the Student Art Show, arranged by Art Teacher Keva Berutti, and refreshments.