Madeira Celebrates Commencement on June 7, Awards 80 Diplomas

Madeira's 2025 Commencement ceremony on Saturday, June 7 was highlighted by a powerful keynote address from Representative Janelle Bynum ‘92, Madeira alumna and Oregon’s first African American Congresswoman. Representative Bynum delivered an inspiring and personal address centered on the theme of providence, the idea that life unfolds not by luck, but through divine care and purpose. Tracing her journey from inner-city DC to an engineer, entrepreneur, mother, then Congresswoman, Bynum highlighted the foundational role Madeira played in nurturing her bravery, voice, and curiosity. Her message to graduates was to lean into who they are, embrace the challenges ahead, and trust in the power of their story to shape the future. “Your road ahead is full of promise, but it will not be without challenge. Never stop believing in yourself and the value you bring to this world.” 

Representative Bynum '92 addresses the Class of 2025.

The ceremony was held in Madeira’s beautiful outdoor amphitheater. A total of 80 students received their diplomas. 

Echoing Representative Bynum’s spirit of reflection and growth, Head of School Christina Kyong framed her remarks around the progression from past to present to future. She reflected on how students arrived at Madeira and grew through the years, encouraged them to pause and savor the present moment, and inspired them to carry their values and lessons forward into an uncertain but promising future. “Learn from the past, embrace the present, and help create a better future. The future is not a fixed place; it’s a canvas. And you… have already picked up the brush.”  

Student Speaker Nate Young delivered a poignant reflection on the shared experiences of the Class of 2025. With poetic rhythm and vivid imagery, Young took the audience through treasured Madeira traditions, common challenges, and everyday quirks that bonded the class, touching on the physical spaces that shaped their journey, the people who made it memorable, and the growth that came with it all. “Madeira brings its fair share of challenges, but it boasts an equally large number of cheerleaders to help you overcome them.” 

In a moment of reflection, senior Chianu Kachikwu invited everyone to take a breath and appreciate the shared journey that brought them together. She emphasized gratitude for the people who supported the graduates, highlighted the power of connection, and reminded the audience that this fleeting moment is one that will become a cherished memory. “In a world that rarely pauses, let this be our moment of stillness.” 

Before presenting the diplomas, Board Chair Anita Tolani ‘91, P’24, spoke about Madeira's transformative power, lifelong connections, and the School’s enduring mission to nurture changemakers. “We honor Madeira’s informal motto, ‘Function in disaster, finish in style, remain calm at the center of your being.’ My wish for each of you is that you can always find space for calmness in the face of chaos.” 

The ceremony honored Madeira’s enduring traditions, as the graduates followed the long-standing practice of carrying 13 red roses to symbolize the 13 boarding students in the School’s first graduating class.  Class rings, emblazoned with Madeira's seal, are part of the graduation tradition as well. Students wear their class rings with the seal’s sunburst pointing toward them, so they soak in the light of learning. Upon receiving their diploma, they flip their ring so they can share their light of learning with the rest of the world. 

The 80 students in the Class of 2025 were accepted to 163 different colleges and universities.