Not even a last minute change of venue could damper a celebration four years in the making. Last week, our School of Unlimited Learning (SOUL) celebrated its 13 th annual commencement celebration at Valdez Hall in downtown Fresno. Decorated in solid black and white caps and gowns, nearly 40 students marched on stage and celebrated a year filled with trials, tribulations, accomplishments, and – in the end - success.

Keeping with tradition, SOUL Career Counselor Sam Hairston led the commencement as Master of Ceremonies and recognized the Class of 2011 for its outstanding work in the community. During the school year, the class gave back by helping feed the homeless, participating with our Sanctuary’s Outreach to the Streets team, hosting a canned food drive, and serving the elderly. SOUL’s total hours of service contributed to Serve Fresno – Fresno Mayor Ashley Swearengin’s initiative on volunteerism and civic engagement.

During the ceremony, Cultural Arts Rotary President Dr. Jackie Ryle presented Louis Lopez, Verenis Flores, and Leann Lynn with $500 scholarships each to be used to offset college education costs in the fall. Dr. Ryle continued recognizing Leann Lynn for touching the hearts of the Cultural Arts Rotary and presented her with a state-of-the-art laptop for her schooling.

Also honored were Samantha Thompson and Khristopher Guevara with the Academic Achievement Award, and Arthur Pumarejo and Miguel Alvarez with the Outstanding Senior Award.

Congratulations SOUL Class of 2011!