CLAREMONT — There were cheers, whistles, a few tears and the names of graduates shouted loudly by family and friends as the Stevens High School Class of 2019 marched into the Carr gymnasium Thursday evening to sounds of Pomp and Circumstance.
Student speakers at commencement recalled memories and encouraged their classmates to be bold with their future and never stop learning, whether it is college, employment or some other endeavor.
Senior class president Leann McCarthy, who is headed to Saint Leo University in Florida, said while searching for what to say, she decided to strike a “personal” tone for a class she believes is closer than most. For some, friendships go back to kickball in elementary school and sharing lunch in middle school.
“And I am so grateful for the memories I have shared with all of you,” she said.
When looking to their next step in life, McCarthy said it is OK not to be sure of your path.
“Just remember, everything happens for a reason, and you will find your way. Change your life if you need to because life is too short not to be happy,” she said. “No matter what you do in life, give 110 percent and remember you will only go as far as your mindset. You are capable of accomplishing anything but it is up to you.”
Salutatorian Kaitlyn Chambers, who was introduced by softball coach Melissa Nichols as an engaging, fun and “one of a kind” young lady, was emotional as she thanked her coach for all the support and encouragement.
To her classmates, she said she would miss them and the high school experience, which flew by.
“So cherish these moments, because you will remember them the rest of your life,” she said.
Quoting Ellen DeGeneres, Chambers, who is going to Plymouth State University, urged graduates to “follow your passion, stay true to yourself and never follow someone’s else path. If there is no clear path, then make your own.
“We live in a world with so many resources and opportunities, don’t be afraid to use them and strive toward the goal of change.”
Music teacher Katja Kleyensteuber, poked a little fun at her younger brother, valedictorian Karsten, but also said she was truly amazed watching him develop into a gifted musician and mature individual.
Karsten Kleyensteuber first thanked counselors and teachers for their dedication to further the education of others and congratulated the class on becoming state champs, artists, musicians, scholars, record-setting athletes and more.
“Today is a celebration of the work we have done. Be proud of all you accomplished,” he said. “Be proud of what you learned but more importantly learn from your mistakes.
“I implore you to keep learning. Whether you are a doctor or a plumber, the more knowledge you acquire, the more valuable you will be. Knowledge is power and can control your destiny.”
“Find your passion,” he continued. “The thing that makes you want to get out of bed in the morning and go out into the world. Spend your time doing something you find fulfilling. It is your responsibility to make your dreams a reality.”
After several seniors sang I’ll Remember You Through the Years, and Julia Belaire was given the Edgar Lord Faculty Award, 1995 Stevens graduate and UMass-Boston soccer coach Amy Zombeck-Krajewski gave the keynote address, telling the class that if she has learned one thing in 24 years, it is that you never stop learning or evolving and the “situations you face, who you face them with and how you face them will create a forever-changing path in your lives
“However, if you take ownership of your decisions, learn and grow from them, that will make you a better person and have a lasting impact on your lives and the lives of others,” Zombeck-Krajewski said.
Patrick O’Grady can be reached at pogclmt@gmail.com.
