Class divided graduates united
Published: June 17, 2009
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Blue Ridge class of 2009 president Nicholas Smith passes the senior mantle to Class of 2010 president Meghan Ragard. STAFF PHOTO/STACI WILSON
Valedictorian Joshua Allen
Blue Ridge Class of 2009 president Nicholas Smith spoke at commencement exercises on Saturday, June 13 about the challenges of leading a class that entered its senior year as a group of individuals rather than a unified class.
Smith said the challenges of the year were finally put aside on the seniors’ final day of classes when the group assembled a convoy of cars and traveled as one through the streets of Great Bend, Hallstead and New Milford.
Finally, the seniors arrived at Blue Ridge High School. “Everyone laughing and living the senior year we dreamed of,” said Smith.
“As we all continue on with our lives, remember the fun times and not the screaming matches in the hallways,” said Smith.
“Instead of being graduating individuals, we are a graduating class,” said Smith.
In keeping with Blue Ridge tradition, Smith then passed the senior class mantle to Class of 2010 president Meghan Ragard.
In her remarks, salutatorian Christina Brush likened life to a jigsaw puzzle, with the pieces strewn about.
“We live our lives trying to find pieces of our puzzles,” said Brush. “Our puzzles are coming together but there are still more pieces to find.”
Valedictorian Joshua Allen told the graduating class, “No one will give you the golden ticket to success. Embrace the word ‘can.’ Forget the word ‘can’t.’”
“I am truly going to miss Blue Ridge. I am honored to share the stage with each and every one of you,” said Allen.
He finished his address quoting Gandhi, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
Blue Ridge graduated 96 seniors in the commencement day exercises. Diplomas were presented by board of education president Harold Empett.
Highlights of the ceremony included an a capello rendition of the national anthem by Smith and a slideshow of ‘Graduate Memories’ produced by Alyssa Romano, Rebecca Hinkley and Kelsey O’Neil.
