Class of 2007 notes new styles, highlights.
By: Mary Ellen Zangara
Manville High School marked 50 years in the borough with the June 20 commencement for 76 graduates in the Class of 2007.
After the students made their entrance into the school’s courtyard with the school band playing "Pomp and Circumstance," senior Amanda Bron led the class, school staff and parents in saluting the flag, followed by the band’s performance on the national anthem.
A welcome by Class President Kelly Adams and greetings from Amanda Johnson led into the first of the guest speakers for the ceremony Robert Phillips, Class of 1987.
"I feel honored to be able to speak in front of the 50th class of Manville High School, as it was exactly 20 years ago today that I sat where you are today," he said. "Comparing 1987 to 2007, a lot has changed: You sent text messages to your sweethearts; we sent notes in the hallway. You ran and hid from Mr. Grebeck, we ran and hid from Mr. Panfile. You packed and rearranged your classes to get into the AP classes to get into the best colleges; we rearranged our schedule to get out for a 12:30 (break) and go out for lunch. You had a successful gridiron season; we had a successful season in basketball.
"We had Mr. Lisciandro and Mr. LaMastro and … wait they’re still here," he added.
Weston School Principal Don Frank noted how he watched many of the graduates from their first day of school.
"I feel honored that today, on your last day of your public school education, I am here to see you off and say goodbye from the public school system, but not from life in general," he said.
Mr. Frank went on to reminisce about some of the graduates. He ended by congratulating all of the class and wishing them well.
Salutatorian Nicole DeFalco noted she sees "educators who are also friends," "families that are also fortresses" and "friendships that have been strong since freshmen year" in looking at the class.
"The Class of 2007 is comprised of geniuses, artists, musicians, poets, business leaders, athletes, dancers, doctors, teachers and lawyers," she said. "But more importantly, it is comprised of compassionate hearts; shoulder to cry on, humor, intellect, laughers, complainers, innovative thinkers, lightheartedness and true friends."
Valedictorian Maria Korzec spoke about the memories of her years at MHS, before quoting Ralph Waldo Emerson: "What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us."
"I believe that our past experiences and memories, combined with our hopes and aspirations for the future, are the building blocks of our character and individuality," she said. "At the start is the foundation, built strong with the love of our parents, guardians and families as well as their boundless efforts to nurture and care for us. Their unconditional affection and dedication have provided us with a sense of belonging and encouragement that we needed while making new friends and entering school."
She thanked the school’s teachers, counselors and staff, as well as the district administrators "for the priceless education, life lessons and valuable experiences that you have bestowed upon us."
"The line on the horizon stretches as far as we can see," Maria said. "So let’s not limit ourselves, but expand our grasp of the world, investigate our interests, pursue our passions, and contribute something unique of our own, that would mark our presence in this world."
She concluded her speech praising her fellow graduates, noting she learned "so much from every single one."
"You were, and always will be, my source of inspiration and support," she said. "We have cared for each other in times of sadness, especially when we have lost people dear to our hearts, and looked out for one another."
Board of Education President Louis Petzinger then handed the graduates their diplomas. After the diplomas were presented, the class song, "In This Diary" by Ataris, was played, and class officers Kelly Adams, Melissa Roskowski, Amanda Johnson and Amanda Bron presented two TVs for the school cafeteria as a class gift.
After a performance of the school song by the MHS band, the new graduates left the courtyard as they entered to the strains of "Pomp and Circumstance" but with their diplomas in hand.

