Nothing Could Dampen the NBHS Graduation
By Allen Pitts | Correspondent at June 22, 2024 | 2:00 pm | Print
As the procession wound its way from the high school down Mill and South Main Street, you could tell this was going to be an unusual graduation event. From Nicholas Mercier, President of the Board of Education, in the front, to graduate Isaac Torres, the last man in back of the long line, there were comments of anticipation, celebration and apprehension about the darkening skies.
Diplomas, umbrellas, cameras and joy abounded on June 16th as 537 NBHS students celebrated their high school graduation in the rain. And, while the students were partially protected by their creatively decorated mortar board caps, parents and friends shared what they could for protection in between the cheering.
More than one parent was heard commenting “It wasn’t supposed to do this” as the drizzle turned into a hard, cold rain. But no one seemed to care. Nothing was going to dampen the happiness and pride of the graduates and their families. They “let a smile be your umbrella,” and smiles were everywhere.
As Mayor Erin Stewart noted in her speech, these were that very last of the people born in the 20th century who were now graduating. The changes that they have seen were reflected in the very structure of the graduation itself with cameras, smart phones, GoPro’s, live feeds on websites, Twitter and Facebook covering every aspect. Social media made it available for viewing anywhere in the world.
More surprises included a rendition of the Start Spangled Banner by the duet of Marie Gigliotti and Jasmine Colapietro.
Board President Mercier spoke about the problems and hardships the class members had overcome.
“For those of you have struggled over these past four years, for those who have had to push yourselves just to make it to the next day - please accept my sincere congratulations. You may leave high school carrying some scars, but you also carry with you the determination you need to succeed in life,” he said. “For those of you who have been fortunate enough to not face these challenges: I urge you, as you go forward, to look to those around you in your community, be it at home or at college, and lend a hand. Lend your strength to those who may need it, and seek to understand the tough road they may be walking.”
Mayor Erin Stewart told students that each of them possesses a tremendous talent and to follow their passion as they move on through life.
“Be fearless in that pursuit of what sets your soul free. Understanding your passion will lead you to your purpose in this world. Always remember that you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”
Superintendent Nancy Sarra concluded her speech with “We love you for who you are and who you will become. Tell your story with pride and make New Britain proud!”
After Sarra spoke, the concert choir dedicated their performance of “In My Life” to NBHS Band Director, Dr. David Kayser, who had been battling a courageous battle with cancer (on the Sunday following graduation, Kayser passed away).
Following the performance, Joseph Pinchera, NBHS Principal, reminded the students just how successful their class has been over the past several years.
2017 Salutatorian Joseph Bechard based his talk on words of wisdom from the late Steve Jobs. “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life.”
The biggest crowd reaction was the applause and cheers for Saimun Habib, 2017 Valedictorian.
“If you choose to be good at something, let it be the ability to learn. No other skill will help you more in life,” he said. But he also added humor by punctuating his speech with lines such as, “Look around and take a deep breath, the air is electric in this stadium; 12 years and you’re finally here, minutes away from graduation with nothing but me and a boring speech stopping you.”
The crowd loved it.
As the rain came down, the name of each graduate was called and they crossed the stage to receive their diploma. Though they were wet and soggy, there was not one face seen without a smile.
