• CHRISTINA BURKE - Victoria Advocate
• Originally published May 26, 2008 at 3:08 p.m., updated May 26, 2008 at 3:08 p.m.

Ninety-six seniors participated in the 85th annual commencement ceremony of St. Joseph’s High School on Sunday in the Fine Arts Auditorium at The Victoria College.

As soon as the music started, gasps from students could be heard, one last deep breath before walking out into the packed auditorium. In their blue robes, graduates of St. Joseph’s high school filed in to the music of “Pomp and Circumstance.” Family and friends filled the auditorium, leaving standing-room only for late arrivers.

Commencement speaker Robby Burdge, who is stepping down this year as chairman of the board of directors, gave a speech about “nanosecond choices.” The most important choices you make, he said, are about faith and your spouse. Burdge, who says he came to Texas in the ’80s with only $85 in his pocket and a full tank of gas, is now CEO of Klean Corps International and KCI energy. “I’ve done it because God was there,” he said from the podium.

The faith-based school has a special identity aside from the blue and white class colors. “We have a special identity: we have the academics and the Christian identity. Both things are important to us,” said St. Joseph alumni Gretchen Boyle, a senior English teacher for 22 years.

“I think this group is extremely happy and has become very united. They are funny and charming, yet they know when to be serious. I’m going to miss them when they are gone,” Boyle said.

The majority of students intend to go on to pursue higher education. One will go into the seminary. It was at a retreat at the Spiritual Renewal Center when he realized his calling.

“The thought of being a priest has always been in my head. ... It really hit me. I really got down in prayer,” said Adam Beard, 18. A seminarian with the diocese, approved by the bishop, he will be attending seminary at the University of Dallas with the Holy Trinity Seminary.

The graduating seniors were filled with adrenline and nervous energy.

“It’s big relief and really exciting. I’m nervous about my speech,” said Emily Zapalac, valedictorian, who will be studying business at the University of Texas at Austin.

“I’ve worked hard so I’m just glad to have it over with. I’ve enjoyed St. Joseph’s. It’s a good atmosphere, and really encourages you to learn and work hard. I had fun it was a great place to be and grow up,” said Valerie Gilliam, salutorian .

Students followed up the graduationceremony with one last night together at the high school gym for project graduation, an event planned by parents that featured games, music, and food. “Project graduation is the last time to be together before we all leave for the summer,” said Amy Verbout, 17.

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