Walden University Celebrates the Class of 2020

While high schools across the United States were forced to change their graduation plans, Walden University was keen to ensure this year’s graduates were recognized and celebrated.

Walden’s Mobilize for Good initiative, which works with alumni to help give back to schools, collaborated with educators at Woodbridge High School to honor their seniors. Walden donated funds for a class gift of $7,500 on behalf of the senior class to Black Lives Matter. The organization is important to the senior class and was selected by the Student Senior Board.

In addition to the class gift, Walden wanted to recognize Woodbridge High School graduates who demonstrate the talent, passion, and promise evident in the Class of 2020. Three impressive students were awarded with educational gifts to enhance their talents and inspire their future success.

Donovyn James is a rapper, vocalist, dancer, actor, and was a hardworking student at Woodbridge High School. Donovyn participated in theater and choir activities, and appeared in many of Woodbridge’s productions. He was the school’s resident DJ, playing music on the school’s public address system between classes and performing as the school’s mascot at pep rallies. To empower his future, Walden gave Donovyn a gift bundle that included a MacBook Pro, software, and equipment to help continue his passion in pursuing a music and acting career.

Jessica Benitez served as a Student School Board senator and advocated on behalf of her fellow Woodbridge students and across the U.S, including students with mental and physical disabilities. To recognize her efforts and passion, Walden gave Jessica a gift bundle containing textbooks as well as dorm room furnishings to help her settle into her freshman year at university this fall.

Ava Pumpelly was active in the school community, having been the executive chair of public relations for Woodbridge’s Student Activities and Leadership Council, and was the Student Council Association’s elected historian. Ava has spoken at local, state, and national conferences about utilizing student leadership within schools. To empower Ava’s talents for communication, Walden provided her with a camera, photography equipment, and Adobe Creative Cloud software.

This video features the three Woodbridge High School seniors and their parents being surprised with their gifts.

Laureate congratulates the Woodbridge High School seniors on their graduation and wish them well for the bright futures ahead of them.

We also acknowledge and thank Walden University’s Mobilize for Good team, who are responding to the educational challenges created by COVID-19. They represent the many Laureate Heroes who continue to make a difference in the lives of so many people in the communities they serve.