CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The Kelly High School jazz band performed in the send-off and class of 2020 graduates from all corners of Chicago participated in shout outs.
There was much reference to the hardships faced in the past few months by graduating students, but speakers like Chicago Public Schools CEO Janice Jackson highlighted the positives from the past and the impact the new adults can have on the future.
In a tough talk commencement speech media maven Oprah Winfrey, a former long-time Chicago resident, spoke of some of the hardships faced by young adults today.
“Hello, Chicago graduates! Y’all are never going to forget this year. Congratulations, Class of 2020,” she said.
Winfrey added that she hopes that this will be a moment that ushers in reform and transformation leaving not just the Chicago 2020 graduates with that responsibility but the people in cities across the country.
The virtual ceremony also featured messages from Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Cardinal Blase Cupich, a song from the Second City and appearances by "Hamilton" star Miguel Cervantes.