Manchester High Grads Told 'Don't Settle for Happiness'

Manchester High School held its 2013 graduation ceremony on Thursday, June 20, 2013, by convening 416 degrees at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford. 

Typically, graduates are wished happiness during most speeches at a commencement ceremony, but Manchester High School Principal Richard Geary said that the Class of 2013 shouldn't just settle for that. 

"Please don't settle for happiness, it's not good enough," Geary told the crowd. "…Your job, your challenge, is to figure out a way to improve our world."

Geary's remarks where one of a handful of speeches where the graduates were encouraged to strive for their dreams and make their place in the world. 

Teacher of the Year Catherine Mazzotta told the class to "never underestimate the impact that you have on others." 

Sarah Mangiafico delivered the valedictory address, in which she encouraged her fellow graduates to go out into the world and make a difference, even if that can be a scary prospect. 

"The only thing that is holding us back is fears," Mangiafico said. "So let's face them, let's face them like we did at MHS." 

Class President Samuel Iacobellis delivered the salutary address. 
While Mayor Leo V. Diana offered a few simple lessons he learned from life that he said could help the graduates find happiness, if that's what they were looking for. 

"Do everything in moderation," Diana told the Class of 2013. "Learn that life isn't always fair. Enjoy your friendships. Live by standards. And enjoy your life to the fullest."