Princeton’s Hun School Graduates Get $100 With Diplomas

PRINCETON, NJ — The Hun School Class of 2021 had a surprise in store for them during the commencement ceremony held on June 11. All students who attended the ceremony received $100 along with their diplomas.

And the gift came with a message – to learn how to give back.

Board of Trustees Chair Steve Wills spoke of the importance of giving back and announced that he would give each graduate a $100 bill.

“First, treat yourself for a job well done. Go down to Hoagie Haven and get a Mac Daddy. Second, give back to the school that has given you so much,” said Wills.

“Let’s be the first graduating class to have 100 percent participation in the Hun Fund. Third, pay it forward. Do something nice for someone who deserves it. But don’t Venmo or PayPal them. Look them in the eye and make a connection.”

He also encouraged graduates to hone the skill of learning to learn from every relationship and experience.

Hundred and thirty-two students from the Class of 2021 graduated from The Hun School this year.

Since the class hails from 12 nations and 10 states, 21 members joined the ceremony via live stream due to pandemic travel restrictions. The ceremony was held at the Natale Family Field.

Head of School Jonathan Brougham kicked off the commencement by recognizing the pandemic and giving out a message of hope.

“Remember all that the pandemic has taught us about hope and action, your power to endure and to change. Like the young doctor, take on your problems, and the world’s problems, with the confidence that you can make a difference -- hopefully, patiently, relentlessly, step by step and day by day,” Brougham said.

“You earned your stripes and learned those lessons the hard way, Class of 2021. Now, keep making us proud by never forgetting them.”

Junle Chen was this year’s Salutatorian included the Brood X cicadas in his speech.

“You might feel isolated and lonely when embarking on unique adventures that no one has set foot on. But be like the cicadas, shout your aspirations to the world, celebrate your passions, allow yourself to be vulnerable despite what others may think, and you will surely find a fulfilling path,” said Junle will attend the University of Pennsylvania.

Meanwhile, Siqi Wang made history by being the first Valedictorian to speak from China during Commencement. Wang learned remotely due to travel restrictions.

“Saying goodbye is not letting go of each other. It is a tribute to our experience, our memories, and our time together. Hun has given us friendships, mentorships, and growth that will live on with us, way beyond just the years of high school,” said Wang who’s headed to Brown University.

“We are all going to do amazing things.”

Here are some more photos from the ceremony: