It was a perfect evening last Friday for the commencement ceremony of the Lyme-Old Lyme High School Class of 2015. Eighty-seven students received their diplomas from Region 18 Superintendent Ian Neviaser and Region 18 Board of Education Chairman James Witkins.
We offer here some memories of the evening in both images and advice from a selection of the speakers.
“Growing up in a town where it is impossible to drive down Lyme street and not recognize almost every car along the way, our close knit community and the environment it fosters, has created for us the means to find success in whatever it is we hope to do … The memories these towns and the people in it have created for us are unique and unmatchable.” Meredith Aird, President, Class of 2015.
“Be committed to taking in each moment of your new day. Take out the ear buds, close the i-pad and turn off that cell phone … Take notice of the world around you … Always carry a great piece of literature with you … reading will exercise your brain … Don’t just look at the dashboard while someone else does the driving. Drive your own car.” Jill Ressler, Commencement speaker
“Don’t be content with monotony or material enjoyment. Do what you love, and love what you do. Wake up! You’ve got a life in front of you. Seek out all the things that you can do with a true sense of enjoyment, and above all, just have fun, because as Van Wilder says, “You shouldn’t take life too seriously. You’ll never get out alive.” Liam Corrigan, Honor Essayist, Class of 2015.
‘As Margaret Meade put it, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has” … Let’s be that fulcrum of change that opens doors to the poor, oppressed and forgotten. Let’s go out there and be 86 living hinges, and see just how much good we can do.” Abigail Cipparone, Salutatorian, Class of 2015.
“Don’t forget where you came from, and don’t forget where you’re going … As a very wise band director, Mr. Wilson, once said, “Try something new, and don’t be afraid to fail.” Remember that your ability to do anything is limited, but only by your lack of willingness to try. As we go forth, remember … “The limit does not exist.”” Eric Pan, Valedictorian, Class of 2015
“Do not be afraid to take a risk, step out of your comfort zone or pursue an experience that may change your intended path … learn from your struggles, relish the places you will explore and take care of your relationships with family and friends as life with these components is ultimately sweeter. If you keep these things in mind, I promise, your destination will take care of itself.” Tracy Lenz, Director of School Counseling.
And as the evening came to a close, a hawk settled on the school’s flagpole — perhaps a symbol of the great heights to which the Class of 2015 will soar.
Love the story Olwen!