Rosarian Academy proudly celebrated the graduation of its 40-member Class of 2025 on Thursday, May 29, with heartfelt tributes, distinguished awards, and a memorable address from an iconic figure in global fashion, and a Rosarian parent, Mr. Tommy Hilfiger.
The day’s celebrations began with a beautiful Baccalaureate Mass at St. Edward Catholic Church, where students gathered with faculty, staff, and loved ones to reflect on their journey and give thanks. The evening concluded with the official Commencement Ceremony in the Margaret Tighe Machlin Fine Arts Theater at Rosarian Academy, where faculty, families, and honored guests filled the auditorium in support of the graduates.
Among those in attendance was proud father and legendary fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger, who delivered this year’s keynote address. Known around the world as the founder and visionary behind the iconic TOMMY HILFIGER brand, Mr. Hilfiger inspired students with a message rooted in resilience, creativity, and courage.
“Don’t aim for perfection,” Hilfiger encouraged the graduates. “Aim to stay true to your vision—even when it’s hard, even when others don’t see it yet. That’s where resilience comes in and that’s when greatness begins.”
He spoke candidly about his early days growing up in a small town in New York, opening his first clothing store while still in high school, and going on to create a fashion empire that has redefined classic American style. Through stories of setbacks, successes, and the power of believing in bold ideas, Mr. Hilfiger reminded students that determination and authenticity are more powerful than perfection.
Since its founding in 1985, the TOMMY HILFIGER brand has become a global leader in lifestyle fashion, known for its red, white, and blue flag logo and commitment to inclusivity and innovation. Yet, Mr. Hilfiger’s greatest pride that evening came not from the runway, but from the front row—his son, Sebastian Hilfiger, a proud member of Rosarian’s Class of 2025.
Sebastian was recognized during the ceremony for both academic excellence and character. Among his many honors, he received a St. Dominic Award for his humility, joy, and the heart he brings to everything he does, which are qualities that have left a lasting impression on the Rosarian community.
The evening also celebrated an impressive roster of student achievements, including:
Character Awards:
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Citizenship (April): Elisa Duran
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Responsibility (May): Julian Angle
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Trustworthiness (June): Valentina Luna-Garcia
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Kiwanis Student of the Year: Christopher Kareh
Academic Honors (4th Quarter):
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Second Honors: Benjamin Carpentier, Elisa Duran, Ava Logsdon, Valentina Luna-Garcia, Olivia Matz, Sawyer Treadway, Emilio Uribe
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First Honors: Sebastian Hilfiger, Lilly Ivancevic, Noelle Moran, Carter Osiecki, Rocco Oskouei, Berkley Parks, Ava Shrikhande, Kayden Thornborough
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Highest Academic Honors: Matias Duran, Ceci Hernandez-Macias, Megan Stetson, Rafael Vaya
President’s Education Awards Program:
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Academic Excellence: Matias Duran, Ceci Hernandez-Macias, Ava Shrikhande, Megan Stetson, Kayden Thornborough, Emilio Uribe, Rafael Vaya
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Educational Achievement: Lilly Ivancevic
Subject Area Awards included top honors in math, literature, religion, the arts, STEM, and physical education.
Special congratulations to Megan Stetson, who earned the school’s highest academic standing.
A particularly proud moment came with the presentation of the St. Dominic Award to both Matias Duran and Sebastian Hilfiger, two students recognized for their quiet strength, steadfast kindness, and ability to lead by example.
Rosarian Academy, now entering its 100th year, continues to honor its mission of educating the whole child, mind, body, and spirit. The Class of 2025 leaves behind a legacy of excellence, service, and faith, and steps forward with the confidence to shape the future.
