MONTICELLO, Maine – The Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians saluted its graduating high school Class of 2026 Friday evening, June 19 with a special ceremony and dinner at the Wilderness Pines Campground.
“I am honored to welcome our 2026 High School graduates, families and friends,” Amber Wire, education director for HBMI, said. “We are here to recognize and celebrate your high school achievements.”
Joining the graduates and family were Tribal Chief Clarissa Sabattis and members of the Maliseet Tribal Council. Sean Lamkins served as the guest speaker for the evening. Lamkins was hired in April as the Johnson O’Malley Home-School Liaison worker for the tribe.
“Too often we let our surroundings shape our futures,” Lamkins said. “Not everyone has the resources to explore the world or understand how it even works, even though we all know it is constantly changing.”
Lamkins added that when he was in high school, he did not have a clear idea of what he wanted to do with his life. “I was discovering who I was in real time, rather than setting a defined goal from the start. Like many, I struggled with getting good grades, paying attention and even getting out of bed. I struggled until I found support through the Maliseet Education Department and with their added push I was able to overcome those challenges.”
He encouraged the group to continue their pursuit of knowledge, regardless of what form that may take.
“Whether you choose to pursue college, take a year off to recharge or join the workforce, remember you have already conquered the first step toward a prosperous future and laid the foundation for a successful life,” he said. “A vast world of possibilities awaits you, but it is up to you to explore everything it has to offer. This moment is not the finish line, but a checkpoint in your life’s journey.”
The graduates were presented with an eagle feather, certificate and honorarium for their accomplishments.
