The Eastside Memorial Early College High School community, staff, families and friends joined together June 15 to celebrate the 2020 graduating class through a virtual ceremony.

Superintendent Paul Cruz congratulated the graduates of this year's class via a video statement. His remarks were followed by a speech from Principal Miguel Garcia.

“Congratulations to the Class of 2020. Your graduation is now a reality. Thank you for your hard work, commitment and determination,” Garcia said. “Seniors, as your principal, I have seen you grow to new heights, raising the bar for future Eastside students. More importantly, I have seen you all become young men and women who have taken on huge challenges even before your high school career was over.”

Next, Salutatorian Abdul Basir Taniwal spoke about the importance of family and hard work in achieving one’s dreams.

“Keep in mind, never, ever stop working hard,” Basir Taniwal said. “It forms great habits, and great habits can change our lives in a very effective manner.”

Before the reading of the names of each graduating senior, Valedictorian Isabel Rivera-Hernandez highlighted the importance of continuing on the path of self-discovery. 

“Continue to search for who you are, not what you are, but who you are,” Rivera-Hernandez said. “The journey to self-discovery will lead you through many unknowns, good and bad. But you will be happier when you discover your true self.”

The ceremony concluded with a reading of the names of each graduating senior. 

The AISD community is proud of our students and eager to see their future accomplishments. Congratulations to the Class of 2020! We are #AISDProud of our #AISDGrads!