ASHLAND, Maine – Commencement exercises June 1 in Ashland brought the Class of 2007 together one last time, with speakers offering words of wisdom as the students waited patiently for the evening to conclude in the presentation of diplomas.
Leading the processional were class marshals Curtis Belanger and Jessica Landry.
This year, Ron Grover, a long-time educator, offered the keynote address.
“I offer my congratulations to the Class of 2007. This marks my 40th year in education in Ashland. I’m deeply honored to have been asked to speak tonight,” said Grover.
Grover went on to describe the students as a “very special, fun class,” noting that many will continue with their education, while others have chosen to join the work force following graduation. He recalled a recent class field trip and advised the class that, like those at the sites visited, much could be accomplished through hard work.
“Through hard work and perseverance in your future careers, there’s not much you can’t do,” said Grover. “Ashland people can do anything they want.”
In closing, Grover asked the class to remember one thing.
“My one wish for the class would be that you never forget your extended family here and how you got on stage,” said Grover. “From one old senior to 25 young seniors, keep in touch.”
Kevin Baker, this year’s salutatorian, spoke next, serving up his own bit of advice to his classmates.
“Congrats to my classmates. We finally made it. We’ve endured adversities and are stronger because of them,” said Baker, noting examples such as the technological changes his class has lived through and the loss of the four Ashland sisters a year ago that had a tremendous effect on students and citizens of the small community, as well as the loss of other students through family moves from the area.
“We’ve grieved but we survived to a better person. We honor them (the sisters) by moving on. I can think of no better tribute,” said Baker. “The difficulties I’ve faced made me stronger and a better person.”
Valedictorian Melissa Cray credited both family and friends for making it to graduation day.
“Graduating is a huge honor. Our parents made their own paths and set examples. As T.S. Eliot once said, ‘Only those who risk going too far truly know how far they can go.’ Our class has created memories to last a lifetime,” said Cray. “Our teachers’ advice influenced our lives.”
After the speeches, a video presentation offered a glimpse at the graduates over the years. Next, a dedication to parents found students and parents embracing, with tears combining with laughter as hugs were exchanged.
Next, various students were presented with scholarships, totally approximately $77,000 this year. Special gifts were given on behalf of the class to various individuals who were credited for their support and leadership over the years.
Once the students returned to their seats on stage, it was time for the presentation of diplomas by Superintendent Gehrig Johnson. Seated once more with diplomas in hand, the class was instructed to move their tassels signifying their status as graduates.
With the evening coming to a close, the Class of 2007 made their way off stage, lighting candles as they went to take part in the candlelight recessional around the Bobby Goding Memorial Gymnasium. Upon conclusion of the festivities, it was time to join family and friends and celebrate the accomplishment of becoming a graduate.
This year’s list of graduates include: Kevin Baker, Curtis Belanger, William Belanger, Eric Bisson, Eric Boyles, Douglas Burby, Anthony Chase, Danielle Clark, Kathaleen Clark, Autumn Cobb, Alicia Collins, Michael Condon, Jennifer Cray, Melissa Cray, Christopher Good, Shane Hopkins, Erin Ireland, Theresa Jordan, Jessica Landry, Lyndzie MacDonald, Jesse Martin, Amber Philbrook, Jeremy Poulin, Ian Robertson, Matthew Tardie and Isaac Ward.
