How to Write an ‘Our Graduates’ Page That Actually Sells Formation

Most classical schools list college acceptances like a trophy case. But in a formation-centered model, parents want more than destinations—they want to know who their children will become. A thoughtfully designed ‘Our Graduates’ page isn’t about bragging rights. It’s about storytelling, trust, and transformation.

Why This Page Matters

Yes, every parent wants assurance that your students are prepared for college. But classical parents—your ideal families—aren’t just looking for transcripts and test scores. They’re looking for:

  • Virtue in action
  • Confidence without arrogance
  • Thoughtfulness, joy, purpose
  • Evidence that their child will grow into a whole human

That’s why your ‘Our Graduates’ page is a secret weapon. It lets you frame outcomes through the lens of formation—something no generic prep school can replicate.

What to Include (That Most Schools Don’t)

Most pages list universities. Maybe a few bullet points. You can do better. Here’s how to build a graduate page that sells your school’s deepest values:

1. Portraits of a Graduate

Open with a short, beautifully written description of what your graduates are like—not just what they do. Use language rooted in formation:

“A graduate of Veritas Academy is curious, humble, articulate, and joyful. They seek wisdom, not just knowledge. They serve without seeking credit. They delight in what is true, good, and beautiful.”

Don’t write like a resume. Write like a school that forms souls.

2. Mini Profiles with Virtue Anchors

Feature 3–5 graduates. Not just where they went—but who they became. Each story should highlight a formation trait:

  • Emma, Class of 2022 – Attentiveness: Now studying literature at Hillsdale. Known for pausing to listen deeply and speak with precision. Her seminar presence helped others flourish.
  • Caleb, Class of 2021 – Courage: Spoke at the local school board with grace and clarity. Now a philosophy major who leads with conviction, not volume.

This approach makes “virtue” visible and real. It also showcases the diversity of graduate callings—college, trades, service, and beyond.

3. Testimonies from Parents and Graduates

Let others say what you can’t say as powerfully. Capture 2–3 short quotes like these:

“I didn’t realize how deeply our daughter had changed until I watched her mentor her younger siblings with the same patience and delight her teachers showed her.” — Parent, Class of 2023

“College is great—but what I’m most grateful for is how my school taught me to love hard things. That love has shaped my friendships, my work ethic, and my faith.” — Alumna, Class of 2020

4. Life Outcomes, Not Just Academic Ones

You can list college destinations—but put them at the bottom of the page. Better yet, separate into categories:

  • Academic Pursuits: Hillsdale, Notre Dame, Grove City, Purdue
  • Callings and Vocations: Teaching, nursing, trades, pastoral work
  • Service and Missions: Local volunteerism, international ministry, community leadership

This subtly communicates: “We don’t just form college applicants. We form whole people.”

5. Tie It Back to Your Formation Model

End the page by connecting graduate outcomes back to your school’s core philosophy. Use your formation language—rooted in virtue, wonder, and telos:

“Our graduates embody the fruit of long obedience. They are not merely well-educated—they are well-formed.”

You can even include a small call-to-action button: ‘Learn more about our formation model’ linking to your mission or pedagogy page.

Visuals That Reinforce the Message

  • Professional but natural graduate portraits (not cap-and-gown)
  • Photos of alumni serving, leading, creating
  • Campus photos with quote overlays (e.g. “The wise hear and increase in learning…”)

Keep it human. Keep it rooted in beauty. Avoid anything that looks templated or boastful.

What This Page Signals to Prospective Parents

  • You measure success by virtue, not vanity.
  • You think long-term—beyond test scores and tuition checks.
  • You attract like-minded families seeking the same kind of flourishing.

If you haven’t clearly articulated your school’s mission or formation language, your ‘Our Graduates’ page won’t land. Make sure your mission communication and homepage calls to action also reinforce this message.

Final Thought: This Page Is a Mirror

The best graduate pages don’t just describe students. They reflect your deepest convictions about education and the good life. When done well, this single page can serve as a quiet, persuasive answer to every parent’s unspoken question:

“Who will my child become here?”

Make sure your answer is clear, compelling, and formed by the truth you stand for.

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