Congratulations, Class of 2024!

Three cheers for the 120 graduates of the class of 2024 who were honored during the 61st La Jolla Country Day School commencement ceremony on Friday, May 31, at the University of San Diego. They received over 630 college acceptances, with 92% of students admitted to one of their top three colleges. Graduates will attend 68 colleges and universities, five of which will travel internationally. LJCDS is also proud to recognize 26 lifers from the class of 2024. Our lifers have called LJCDS home for 13 or more years.

Retiring Head of School Gary Krahn, Ph.D., welcomed attendees and shared what Dr. Jonas Salk, the speaker at the first LJCDS graduation on June 5, 1964, told the 26 graduating seniors: “Commitment is an inner experience; it cannot be imposed from the outside. Do only that which makes your heart leap.” Dr. Krahn shared his own wisdom with the class of 2024, advising them to adjust their compass to always err in the direction of kindness.

Upper School English Educator Gary Peritz gave the faculty address, offering heartfelt wisdom and advice as students embark on their future. Jameel McDaniel ’24 gave the student address, emphasizing that failures are essential for growth.

Three awards were announced during commencement. Maya Krishnan ’24 earned the Trustees’ Award, presented by Board of Trustees President Karen Deschaine, for achieving the highest cumulative grade point average over the last four years at LJCDS. Laila Mirkazemi ’24 earned the Head of School Award, presented by Dr. Krahn, for achieving the second-highest cumulative grade point average over the last four years at LJCDS. Head of Upper School Tom Trocano presented the Faculty Prize to Theodore Chen ’24 and Allison Needle ’24. This prize is awarded to two seniors who, through effort, character, scholarship, arts and athletics, have best demonstrated the ideals and spirit of La Jolla Country Day School.

Congratulations, class of 2024! We can’t wait to see how you inspire greatness for a better world.

Visit the 2024 commencement page to see the full list of award winners, photo galleries, matriculation list and a recording of the ceremony.