Influences shape MAHS grads’ futures
Published: June 17, 2009
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Montrose singers Darcy Kernan and Julia Villanella performed the National Anthem in harmony. STAFF PHOTO/STACI WILSON
Valedictorian Katherine English
Montrose Area High School graduated 154 students at the school’s stadium on Saturday, June 13.
Senior class president Abbey Puzo spoke of the athletic, academic and musical accomplishments of her classmates.
“We’ve grown into young adults and had a tremendous time along the way,” said Puzo.
She spoke of many successful class endeavors. “I never said we were perfect but we were successful,” said Puzo, highlighting the day the seniors set up a toll booth at the school and charged teachers nine cents to leave the parking lot as a class fundraiser. “We’ve been successful so far, I hope it continues.”
Salutatorian Nathan Hollister looked to the internet for speech inspiration by googling, “How to write a graduation speech.”
In his humorous speech, he followed the outline of 1) reflect on the moment; 2) address the past; 3) thank classmates, teachers etc.; and 4) look to the future.
“I’m no fortune teller,” said Hollister. “I left the future portion up to you,” he told his classmates.
In her address to the class, valedictorian Katherine English said in preparing for the speech she wondered, “What do I have to say that’s significant?” and came to the conclusion that “We are a nation of those that influence us.”
English spoke of the influences of her grandmothers, one being philosophical, and the other pragmatic in their advice to the young woman.
She also spoke of the influences of her teachers, Mr. Thomas George (now retired) and Mr. Festa.
English recalled Mr. George’s advice. “He told us to widen our perspective and try not to be narrow minded,” said English.
She also mentioned Mr. Festa’s comment, “Whatever is in your own hands is what you make of it.”
Commencement ceremony highlights included Darcy Kernan and Julia Villanella singing the national anthem in harmony. Carol Small performed ‘Forever Young.’
Senior class secretary Eliza Ely presented ‘Reflections from the Class of 2009.’
School board members and Superintendent Michael Ognosky presented diplomas to the graduates.
