Students throw their caps in the air to conclude the graduation ceremony, held on June 11, 2025. Afterward, students made their way to the front of the building to take pictures with faculty, friends and family. Photo used with permission from Virginia Beach City Public Schools.

Tears are shed, applauds are given and smiles are everywhere as the graduation ceremony for the class of 2025 begins. Ocean Lakes graduation was located at the Virginia Beach Convention Center on June 11, 2025.

The students, led by Ocean Lakes Principal Dr. Claire LeBlanc, walked to take their seats. Over a hundred faculty members attended as well, including Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS) Superintendent Donald Robertson. Chorus sang the National Anthem, followed by the Ocean Lakes Alma Mater.  Several students, such as, the class president Gillian Guiterrez, valedictorian Rockwell Li and non-academy valedictorian Devon White, delivered speeches, encouraging students to wake up and find their purpose.

Dr. LeBlanc recognized multiple scholarship finalists, including the Brickell and National Merit Scholarships. Scholarships awarded totaled over $9 million. She also acknowledged Latin honor graduates and other distinctions which included, cum laude, magna cum laude and summa cum laude. She offered praise for class achievements, including Student Council Association (SCA), fine arts and media, volunteer work and sports. Sports earned 24 regional titles, six state championships and many more. 

Dr. LeBlanc announced 10 students who were awarded the Dolphin Medallion, one of the highest recognitions at Ocean Lakes High School. Recipients include Lauren Bulleigh, Anna Brown, David Brujhell, Chris Castillo, Paul Chapman, Dylan Mach, Mudrika Patel, Sofia Phenouf, Khadija Sissoko and Marlie Smith.

Over 450 students were called to walk across the stage for their diploma, and they moved their tassels from right to left and threw their caps in the air to conclude the ceremony.

“My favorite part of graduation was the student speakers. I loved [senior Devon White’s] speech about finding yourself wherever you’re at, no matter what point you are in your life,” said senior Tajyhia Manuel.