MANCHESTER-BY-THE-SEA — With a threat of showers that never came, Manchester Essex Regional High School’s Class of 2025 walked through their graduation exercises Friday afternoon and into their next life pursuits.
Several hundred spectators, mostly family and friends, gathered on Hyland Field, surrounding the 111 graduates seated at the 50-yard line.
Graduates and school faculty processed onto the field to the tunes of “Pomp and Circumstance,” under the direction of director Harry Wagg.
Lauren DuBois, chair of the Social Studies Department and coach of the varsity girls basketball team for more than 20 years, was chosen by the students to be the faculty speaker.
“This is a class full of tremendous talent and determination but what is extra special about them is they always show up for each other,” DuBois said. “The bond they have formed runs deep.”
DuBois recounted several fond memories of Class of 2025 but said the one that stands out took place on the senior trip, when the classmates were standing around a campfire singing and dancing together.
“As a result of these experiences, you have built a strong community, one that won’t be easily divided,” she told the graduates. “You will stand up for each other when tested and have the support of others when you need it. This class has meant much to me over the past four years.”
DuBois said the support members of the Class of 2025 have shown each other while they were together was significant. She said her students have been “advocates” for their own education and for those students who will follow.
“I am in constant awe of your individual talents,” DuBois said. “You keep asking the right questions.”
Several students also addressed the Class of 2025.
Jack Cummins, senior class president, told the crowd his class had decided to donate $500 to the Class of 2026 as its class gift.
He cited a number of “gems” his fellow classmates could call their own.
“Right now, it’s our time to fly,” Cummins said. “We have each other. We don’t know what’s ahead. When we go, we go big.”
Salutatorian Brigid Carovillano spoke about the notion that failure is not necessarily being a bad thing — it often serves to propel people to success.
“When we fall down, we should get right back up,” she said. “These challenges will define us. I know that every single person is going to do amazing things.”
Valedictorian Whitney Turner reminded her fellow students they had all come a long way — including navigating the days of COVID-19.
No matter what pursuits her classmates plan to engage in, she encouraged them to “stay busy.”
“Now, we’re four years older and seemingly wiser,” Turner said. “The little things don’t go unnoticed. I’m continuously reminded of these small gestures. Don’t take yourself too seriously.”
Principal Julie Sgroi said the Class of 2025 stands out because of its resilience, leadership skills and sense of community.
“This is a group of students who have faced challenges with maturity and grace and who lead not just with their voices but with their actions,” Sgroi said. “They support one another, take pride in their school and have embraced both academic and personal growth with a sense of purpose.”
Sgroi said whether in the classroom, on the stage, on the field or in service to others, the graduating class has “consistently shown up with heart, integrity and a commitment to making a positive impact.”
“They have truly left their mark and they leave behind a legacy of kindness, determination and quiet strength,” she said.
Grandmothers Rhonda Woodman and Wendy Leisman were in the audience, showing support for granddaughter Emily Woodman, who plans to study the sciences at Boston College.
“She is an amazing girl,” Leisman said. “She’s caring.”
Rhonda Woodman echoed the sentiments.
“She is a lot of fun,” she said. “She’s a lot of fun but she’s a hard worker.”
Also in the crowd was Ed Akerley, father of graduate Leigha Akerley.
“I’m just so proud of her,” he said, adding his daughter plans to study business at the University of Vermont in Burlington. “She’s full of sunshine and she’s a hard worker.”
At the conclusion of the formal ceremony, students were serenaded by the song “You’re Gonna Go Far,” by Noah Kahan.
Stephen Hagan can be reached at 978-675-2708 or at shagan@gloucestertimes.com.