Canisus High hosts parade for grads

On what would have been the day of the traditional commencement exercises at Canisius High School, May 21, 2020, Canisius will instead host a drive-through parade on campus to celebrate its graduating seniors.

Seniors and their families are invited to decorate their vehicles and drive through the parking lot at 1180 Delaware Avenue on May 21 between 4:00-5:30pm. Faculty and staff will be on campus, spaced at least six feet apart, to wave and congratulate the seniors. Seniors and their families must remain in their vehicles and stay a safe distance from others. No parking will be allowed.

The May 21 celebrations will also include an online component. Senior awards will be announced throughout the day on the Canisius Twitter account, @CanisiusHS, and at canisiushigh.org. Among these honors are the Mr. Canisius award for the senior who, in the estimation of his peers, epitomizes all that Canisius stands for; the Midshipman Jeffrey R. Korn ’79 Memorial Award for a senior who exemplifies outstanding moral character, academic achievement, leadership ability, and good sportsmanship; and the Philippe B. Piedad ’93 Accolade Award for a senior whose quiet inner strength exemplifies the essence of the Canisius spirit through studies, athletics, and service.

Families will also receive an invitation to view a video tribute to seniors produced by Canisius faculty.

“We know for so many of our seniors it is their greatest desire to graduate in our Scaccia Auditorium and walk across that stage. These efforts cannot replace that experience, nor can they fully demonstrate the support, love and gratitude we have for our seniors,” says Canisius President Fr. David Ciancimino, S.J. “We felt it was important though to find a way to celebrate together now while respecting the need to remain a safe distance from each other. We look forward to seeing our graduates in person in the future. We don’t know when that will be yet, but it is important to recognize the mark these young men have made on Canisius.”

Canisius is considering dates this summer for a more formal gathering for the Class of 2020. Those plans will be dictated by the guidelines for gatherings set by the state. The school is also planning a social event for the Class of 2020 during Thanksgiving weekend.