23 Grafton Youths Graduate from BVT

Twenty-three Grafton youths are among the graduating Class of 2011 from Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School.

The 270 new graduates took on the final steps of their secondary careers June 2 at the Hanover Theatre in Worcester.

 “As you prepare to face the next phase of your life, you will become startlingly aware that the key person responsible for your successes or shortcomings is you,” Superintendent-Director Michael F. Fitzpatrick told the students. “In all interactions, embrace enthusiasm and exceed expectations (including your own).”

While the many accomplishments of the Class of 2011 were lauded, Honors Speaker Ethan Moon of Northbridge commented on how the students can reach their full potential.

“I know every member of this class can raise themselves above mediocrity and adversity, to a point in their lives where they are happy and truly proud of their own accomplishments,” Moon said.

“As a member of this class we all have the potential to make our lives amazing and it is only ourselves that will hold us back. Be proud to do what makes you happy and at the end of your days be proud of the things you have done.” 

Nearly 68 percent of the graduating class is pursing some form of post-secondary education while some 32 percent will enter directly into the workplace or military.

“Some of you may go on to positions of great influence and individually make great things happen,” Fitzpatrick said. “But keep in mind each and every one of you can work to make small things happen and those things collectively will make your world, the world of tomorrow, a better place.”

Grafton graduates are:

Kelsey N. Annis, Health Services

Andrew D. Barksdale, Manufacturing Technology

Ryan J. Belmore, Business Technology

Joseph L. Berger, Information Technology

Nicole A. Cote, Cosmetology

Andrew Mark E. Davidson, Automotive Technology

Matthew J. Gendron, HVAC/R

Christopher D. Hall, HVAC/R

Kaitlyn A. Hogue, Cosmetology

James D. Jackman, Information Technology

Magnalie H. Kangas, Cosmetology

Blamuel H. Kuria, Electronics

Scott K.E. LeBlanc (National Honor Society), Auto Body

Megan L. McNeil, Health Services

Andrew W. Paulin, Culinary Arts

Raelene A. Perduta, Graphic Communications

Matthew R.H. Radosta, Graphic Communications

Steven M. Rybak, Manufacturing Technology

Jeffrey E. Schroeder, Automotive Technology

Chaz A. Strom (National Honor Society), Electrical

Daniel A. White, Drafting

Nicole E. Wilhelmi, Business Technology

Daniel R. Wojnar, Manufacturing Technology.