Shepherds, in conjunction with Kolbe Cathedral High School, held its annual brunch at Brooklawn Country Club in Fairfield on Saturday, May 12. The event brings together current Shepherds students enrolled at the school, their mentors, family and staff from both organizations.
The accomplishments of graduating seniors are celebrated. Graduates and their mentors are given the chance to speak publicly about their time at Kolbe and how the Shepherds program impacted their high school experience.
Kolbe alumna and current mentor Carolyn Vermont ’78, was the keynote speaker. A recipient of both undergraduate and graduate degrees from Fairfield University, Ms. Vermont is the proud mother of two, a motivational speaker, education and leadership consultant and a tireless community advocate. She volunteers for ten civic organizations including Shepherds and was invited as a Changemaker to the 2016 White House United States of Women Summit in 2016. She has received numerous awards for her service and is currently running for State Senator in the 23rd Senatorial District covering parts of Bridgeport and Stratford.
Ms. Vermont encouraged the students to continue the legacy of community service that they have begun during their time at Kolbe. She reflected on the way her Kolbe Catholic education as well as her Jesuit education at Fairfield University, instilled a lifelong passion for giving back to the community. Her infectious smile, enthusiasm and her pride in mentee Trinity Bravo, warmed the room on that grey Saturday.
Graduates include: Dudjanceslyta Anty, Nina-Simone Barrow, Trinity Bravo, Zavar Graham, Alexander Cole Grant, Cherish Johnson, Shalymar Morales, Ugonna Onyekachiuzoamaka, Alejandro Serrano, Tatiana Thompson and Mayra Vargas. For more pictures, check out our album on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ShepherdsMentors/