Celebrating Excellence: DME Academy’s 2023 Graduation

May 25, 2023

Setting the Stage: A big thank you to Kathy Wheeler, DME Academy’s Administrative Assistant for putting together an amazing presentation!

Walk down the red carpet for DME Academy’s 2023 graduation. Daytona Beach’s very own DME Academy recently hosted its much-anticipated 2023 graduation ceremony, a joyous occasion that celebrated the remarkable accomplishments and promising futures of its graduating class. With a resounding sense of pride and excitement, students, faculty, families, and esteemed guests gathered to honor the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance, and personal growth. The ceremony showcased the collective spirit of excellence that defines DME Academy and marked the beginning of a new chapter for the graduates. This year’s graduation was DME’s biggest yet with 46 seniors walking across the stage!

DME Academy’s 2023 graduation exuded an air of celebration and accomplishment. As each graduate proudly walked across the stage, adorned in their caps and gowns, their years of dedication and commitment were acknowledged and celebrated. The room was filled with applause, cheers, and tears of joy, as families and friends witnessed their loved ones receive their diplomas, a tangible representation of their academic and athletic achievement as the doors of opportunity now stand open before them.

The event was graced by the inspiring speeches of both students and guest speakers, who imparted wisdom, encouragement, and reflection to the graduating class. Dan Panaggio, CEO, and Maria Burgos, Head of School at DME Academy, emphasized the importance of embracing challenges, cultivating resilience, and nurturing a lifelong love of learning.

“Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your journey, and thank you for sharing the good, the amazing, and the difficult pieces of your chapter,” says Burgos. “I am a better person because of you. Please know that I am here as I was since the first day of September, and I will be here for you always. So now I say to you: I love you and I will see you soon. Mrs. B.”

Maria Burgos, DME Academy Head of School gives her speech.

Their words echoed throughout the auditorium, resonating deeply with both graduates and those in attendance, leaving a lasting impression that will guide the students as they embark on their respective journeys beyond DME Academy.

The graduation ceremony exemplified the rich diversity and unity that characterizes the school community. Graduates from various backgrounds, cultures, countries, and interests came together to celebrate their achievements as a collective whole. The event served as a testament to the power of inclusion, collaboration, and mutual respect. Values that are deeply ingrained in the fabric of DME Academy. This unity fostered an environment where students not only grew academically but also developed a team-like bond since sports are such a huge part of their lives at DME.

Among the notable highlights of the ceremony were the captivating speeches delivered by Baraka Okojie and Tessa Engelman, two exceptional graduates who embody the very essence of DME Academy. Baraka’s speech exuded leadership, as he encouraged his fellow graduates to take responsibility for their actions and to make a positive impact on the world around them. Tessa’s address, on the other hand, emphasized the significance of making friends from all over the world.

“What does DME stand for?” asked Engleman of the audience. “Do More Everyday. This a perfect summary of what we all expected from this school. We all came here to be able to train more every day, get better every day, and get a little closer to our goals every day. We were right. However, what many of us didn’t expect in coming here was that we would get so much more than rigorous training and a high school diploma. We would get to meet friends from all over the world that we will have for the rest of our lives!”

Both Baraka and Tessa served as inspiring role models, showcasing the transformative power of a DME education and leaving a lasting mark on all in attendance.

As the graduates bid farewell to their alma mater, they carry with them the knowledge, skills, and values instilled by DME Academy. The 2023 graduation ceremony marked not just an end but also a new beginning—an exciting chapter in the lives of these young individuals. Armed with the strong foundation and unwavering support received at DME Academy, the graduates are now poised to pursue their passions, contribute to their communities, and make their mark on the world.

Congratulations to the DME Academy Class of 2023!