Graduation: Celebrating AISG’s Class of 2026
On May 28, 2026, families, faculty, staff, Board members, and honored guests gathered to celebrate the 63 members of the American International School of Guangzhou (AISG) Class of 2026–honoring the years of growth, friendship, and resilience that led them to this milestone moment.
This year’s graduating class represents 14 nationalities and has received 247 university offers across 12 countries to date–a reflection of both their ambition and the thoughtful, intentional way they have approached what comes next.
The quote chosen by the Class of 2026 captured the heart of the evening. Graduation was a celebration of achievement, transformation, and the people these students have become through their time at AISG: thoughtful, confident, compassionate, and ready to carry their impact into the world.
The ceremony featured student and faculty addresses, musical performances, the Class of 2026 “Then and Now” video, the presentation of diplomas, and the traditional tassel shift and cap toss. Together, these moments created an evening filled with pride, gratitude, laughter, and reflection.
In his welcome remarks, AISG Director Mr. Kevin Baker reflected on the deeper meaning behind the class quote, connecting it to Eliud Kipchoge’s belief that achievement is shaped by discipline, humility, teamwork, and personal growth. He shared that “success is measured not only by outcomes, but by what the pursuit does to people” – a powerful message for a class whose journey has been shaped by shared effort, resilience, and the support of a community around them. As Mr. Baker reminded graduates, every member of the Class of 2026 leaves AISG as a Ram for Life.
In his Class of 2026 student address, Yidi “Eddie” Liang spoke about the uncertainty that comes with stepping into life after high school, encouraging his classmates to meet the future with courage and adaptability.
“Have the courage to say ‘I don’t know’ and figure it out on the way.”
Secondary School Principal Mrs. Lori Marek reflected on the impact this class has made across the school community, from APAC festivals, sports competitions, service learning, MUN, arts showcases, TEDx, performances, and leadership opportunities to the behind-the-scenes moments of friendship, encouragement, inclusion, and support.
“Impact is not only found in the big moments.”
The evening also honored students who have walked the longest with AISG, including 11 graduates who have been part of the community since at least Kindergarten. Whether students joined AISG recently or spent nearly their entire childhood here, the ceremony reflected the many ways this community has helped shape their story.
Student speaker Sara Abigail Ziqi Io captured the emotion of leaving a place filled with shared memories, reminding her classmates: “The people we meet along the way often matter just as much as the destinations we’re trying to reach.”
Our IB Diploma and Graduation Pathways Coordinator, Mr. John Kennett, selected by the graduates, reflected on the skills students will carry forward from AISG: “You’ve learned how to manage complexity. How to think critically. How to keep working when things get difficult.”
As graduates received their diplomas, moved their tassels, and stepped officially into the AISG alumni community, the evening became a reflection of The AISG Impact.
Congratulations, Class of 2026. Wherever life takes you next, AISG will always be part of your story. Once a Ram, always a Ram.
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