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The stands overflowed, with friends and family standing along the fence near the dignitaries’ platform. Barely visible at the far end of the football field were letters streaming across the bottom of the scoreboard: "Congratulations to the class of 2015 and we wish you the best of best of luck in your future."
The graduates marched in to Elgar’s "Pomp and Circumstance." The boys were in blue robes covering mandatory white shirts and a school tie that was part of the graduation package. The girls were in white robes — they voted to retain the traditional white rather than adopting the blue — each carrying a rose, and many wearing colorful leis.
They took their seats along the length of the football field. The faculty, as Hatzis noted in his remarks, "symbolically encircled” the students, as is the school’s custom.
After the National Anthem, Class President Matthew Peters gave a light, humorous talk, passing on three thoughts: Be unique, be yourself; take risks and be courageous; and keep going, never give up.
Hatzis introduced Salutatorian Emily Cimmino, who urged her classmates “to put your whole heart in whatever you do … treat every day as a new opportunity."
She was followed by the Valedictorian Matthew Dwelle, who was adorned with colored cords from at least half of the 13 honor societies represented at the school.
"Do not waste your ephemeral time deliberately stepping in the footprints of those before you," he said. "Ultimately, the most attractive feature is the wit. Sharpen it by leading life that others envy.”
He finished his speech by stepping away from the podium and taking a selfie — and getting a great laugh from the crowd.
Social studies teacher Diane Borque was chosen by a vote of the class to give the Commencement Address.
Borque told personal stories, about herself and other teachers, and about virtues — kindness, compassion, uniqueness, and about the senior class.
“They have truly grown in a myriad ways these past four years," she said. "Whatever path you choose in your life, find passion in it, let this passion emanate from your soul so people all around you can see it and feel it and be drawn into it. This is what makes life interesting. Be ready to change directions at a moment’s notice."
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