By John Tredrea, Special Writer
The rain held off falling from a sky that had been overcast most of last Thursday (June 18), and so Hopewell Valley Central High School was able to hold its graduation in the most desired spot — Ackerson Field, the turf athletic field on the high school grounds, instead of indoors.
Three hundred and six Central High School seniors accepted their diplomas at the high school’s 2015 commencement ceremony.
“We have tremendous potential to make a difference in the world,“ student speaker Deborah Keen told her classmates. “Through the culture of Hopewell Valley, we have learned to put others before ourselves. I challenge you to be the person to stand up for what’s right, not for what’s popular or convenient.”
Student Cole Fenton said to his peers, “This is our final chance to be together. It’s the challenges we overcame as a class that have defined us. It’s a scary feeling to leave here, but we can take comfort in knowing we’re not doing it alone, but as a class. From the good times to the bad, we have supported each other in whatever we chose to do.”
Lyndell Davis, vice principal, introduced salutatorian Ian Goldsmith and valedictorian Prachi Joshi.
In her address, Prachi said, “Life is a miracle. We’ve been given the ability to think critically, to empathize, so it’s our duty to work hard and to help those who can’t help themselves. It’s our duty to be kind, to be respectful. Let’s make the most of the lives we’ve been given. Let’s make Hopewell Valley proud.”
A longstanding tradition of Central High School graduations is that one of Hopewell Valley’s three mayors will speak at the ceremony.
“This is very special moment for your parents,“ Hopewell Borough Mayor Paul Anzano told the graduates. “You’ve done all the work required of you. It’s been quite a journey. Always remember how the adults in your life shared the love, understanding and knowledge they possessed.”
School board President Lisa Wolff asked the graduates to use their education “to bring about positive change not only locally, but globally. Hopewell Valley has given you the experience and confidence to go out into the world and truly change it.”
Noting three of the graduates will enter military service soon, Superintendent Thomas Smith said to them, “Thank you for serving us and for protecting our country.”
To the class a whole, he added, “You have challenged us. You have taught us. You truly are leaving Hopewell Valley a better place.”
