Community Gives A’Shari Hobbs the Graduation Saint Mary’s Academy Wouldn’t

*What began as a controversy over a high school graduation ended with a standing ovation.

The community-organized graduation celebration brought together family members, friends, alumni, activists, educators, and local leaders determined to ensure that Hobbs received the recognition many felt she had been unfairly denied.

The event was organized after Saint Mary’s Academy Head of School Dr. Brandi Odom Lucas acknowledged that Hobbs was being disciplined because of alleged comments made by her mother, Elvira McBride, toward parents and students accused of assaulting Hobbs at school.

The school’s decision generated widespread criticism throughout Los Angeles and beyond, with many questioning whether it was appropriate to punish a student for the actions of a parent.

Community Steps In to Honor A’Shari Hobbs

Among those who stepped forward was National Action Network Senior Organizer Najee Ali, who said he became involved after learning how devastated Hobbs and her family were by the school’s decision.

“Dr. Odom Lucas’ punishment imposed against A’Shari was frankly cruel and inhumane. To have an African American woman attempt to harm an African American youth under the guise of handbook rules is just plain wrong. Rules can be changed or amended,” Ali said.

Ali said he was deeply moved after speaking with Hobbs and her mother.

“When I spoke to A’Shari and her mom, they were both in tears and heartbroken,” he said. “I wasn’t going to allow that, and I knew our community wouldn’t allow it either. The Village stepped up immediately and within days organized A’Shari Hobbs’ own personal graduation ceremony and celebration.”

That village showed up in force.

Standing-Room-Only Crowd Fills Leimert Park Venue

Supporters filled the venue, creating an atmosphere that was equal parts graduation ceremony, community rally and celebration of perseverance. Many attendees viewed the event as an opportunity to send a message that young people should not lose milestone moments because of conflicts involving adults.

Several Saint Mary’s Academy alumni were among those in attendance, joining community members who wanted Hobbs to know she had support beyond the school’s campus.

The enthusiastic crowd applauded throughout the ceremony as speakers reflected on the challenges Hobbs faced and the determination she displayed in continuing to pursue her goals despite the controversy.

For many attendees, the gathering was about more than a graduation. It was about demonstrating what can happen when a community comes together to support a young person facing adversity.

Johnny Gray and Community Leaders Celebrate Her Achievement

The ceremony featured remarks from former trainer and four-time Olympian Johnny Gray, who served as commencement speaker. Gray encouraged Hobbs to continue pursuing excellence and to use adversity as motivation rather than allowing it to define her future.

Additional speakers included KJLH Radio personality Tammi Mac and Robert Sausedo, CEO of communitybuild, who praised Hobbs for maintaining her focus despite the controversy surrounding her graduation.

Throughout the evening, speaker after speaker highlighted Hobbs’ resilience, determination and accomplishments both in the classroom and on the track.

Rather than allowing the controversy to become the defining chapter of her senior year, supporters emphasized that Hobbs’ story is ultimately one of achievement.

Full Scholarship and a New Beginning

In the months ahead, Hobbs will begin the next phase of her journey at Chicago State University, where she has earned a full track scholarship.

For many in attendance, that accomplishment deserved to be celebrated.

The event concluded with cheers, photographs and emotional embraces as Hobbs received the recognition many felt should have been part of her original commencement experience.

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