Giving two thumbs up after receiving his diploma, Bishop graduate Nolan Rodriguez is Rodriguez will head to University of Tampa this fall to play men's lacrosse. (Courtesy photo)
Giving two thumbs up after receiving his diploma, Bishop graduate Nolan Rodriguez will head to the University of Tampa this fall to play men's lacrosse. (Courtesy photo)

The Eva Green Memorial Field was filled with joy the evening on May 31 as at Bishop Garcia Diego High School held its 110th annual commencement ceremony recognizing the accomplishments of the Class of 2024.

Speakers at this year’s commencement exercises included class salutatorian Anthony Ramirez; valedictorian Audrey Gayou; and Msgr. Jon F. Majarucon, former pastor of St. Raphael Parish in Goleta, and member of the Bishop Diego Board of Trustees.

Bishop Diego's Cardinal of the Year Leshawn Cruz, wearing red graduation gown, holds up his award. (Courtesy photo)
Graduate Leshawn Cruz is Bishop Diego’s Cardinal of the Year. (Courtesy photo)

Bishop Diego’s Class of 2024 stands out in that 100% of the students who applied to four-year colleges or universities were admitted.

The class of 48 students earned more than $3.5 million in academic and merit scholarships, and completed upwards of 10,000 hours of service in the community.  

Ramirez, who said he has taken great pride in representing the Bishop community over the past four years, gave the opening address. 

During his time at Bishop, Ramirez has been involved in a number of clubs and activities, including leader of the video game club, and as a Cardinal ambassador and campus minister.

Academically, Ramirez achieved the National Hispanic Recognition award and the AP Scholar award. This fall he will be attending UC Santa Cruz, where he plans to study computer science: computer game design. 

Gayou, who delivered the farewell address, was the founder of the Red Cross Club; leader of the Science Club; and a member of the STEAM Society, Cardinal ambassadors, and Campus Ministry.

She participated in indoor and beach volleyball, flag football, and softball. Gayou will attend the University of St. Andrews to study neuroscience.

Senior Leshawn Cruz was named Cardinal of the Year, an award voted on by the senior class, and given to the student who has demonstrated the core values of Respect, Perseverance and Compassion over their four years at Bishop Diego.

This student demonstrates strong school spirit, a passion for academics and a kindness recognized by their classmates.

“You have shown remarkable resilience, faith, and determination,” Karen Regan, president of Bishop Diego High School, told the Class of 2024. “As you step into the next chapter of your lives, remember the values instilled in you here at Bishop Diego High School.

“Carry with you the Franciscan spirit of peace, humility, and service. Strive to be instruments of God’s love in a world that so desperately needs it.”