The 107 members of Immaculate Heart’s Class of 2017 accepted their diplomas on June 6 at the Hollywood Bowl during the high school’s 111th commencement.

The ceremony showcased the graduates before a cheering crowd of faculty, family members and friends. Senior Kelly Mayer, who will attend American University this fall, was the class speaker and she called on fellow graduates to continue using their talents to improve the world.

“It is up to us to help one another succeed, even when the odds are stacked against us and the world is at its darkest,” Mayer said. “Class of 2017, each of you is a bright light of hope. Each of you has the ability to use the lessons learned at Immaculate Heart to show the world you have a light that cannot and will not be put out.”

Commencement speaker Los Angeles Police Department Assistant Chief and Director of the Office of Special Operations Beatrice Girmala (Immaculate Heart Class of 1981), the highest-ranking woman in the LAPD, said it was a privilege to return to the Hollywood Bowl stage for the school’s graduation.

“I stand here grateful for this opportunity, but even more so, humbled by the gift of an Immaculate Heart education faculty and staff provided me,” Girmala said. “Let that beautiful tradition go forward with energy, wonder and courage within each of you.”

Girmala concluded her address by encouraging the graduates to live a life of service and gratitude.

“We have responsibilities in this world we must embrace and you are the positive influence to embrace the challenges with love, open minds and unrelenting energy,” Girmala said.

Nearly 100 percent of Immaculate Heart graduates were accepted to colleges and universities. Immaculate Heart is an all-girls Catholic school founded in 1906 at the corner of Western and Franklin Avenues. For information, call (323)461-3651, or visit immaculateheart.org.