Graduation 2015
&
Where Are They Now? A Special Publication of The Addison Independent • June 18, 2015
MUHS CLASS OF 2015
VUHS CLASS OF 2015
KEIL COREY, MT. ABE CLASS OF 2006
ALISON “ALY” DEGRAFF, MUHS CLASS OF 2006
JAMIE WATKINS, VUHS CLASS OF 2006
MUHS CLASS OF 2015
TARYN MASON, OVUHS 2007
A salute to our graduates! During the high school graduation season we tell the graduates to look forward to the future with hope and optimism, while those of us who have seen a few seasons come and go often look back to our own years in high school and just beyond. The newly minted graduates look forward to the next stages of their lives: moving away from home, perhaps seeing a bit of the world, getting that first post-graduation job, figuring out what it’s all about. It is a time full of promise with a fair measure of apprehension thrown in. Look for those
OVUHS CLASS OF 2015
familiar faces in the photos inside from the Middlebury, Mount Abraham, Otter Valley and Vergennes union high school graduation ceremonies this month. At the same time, parents and alumni see the fresh, young faces and can’t help but look back at how their own lives and those of their friends and acquaintances have progressed over the years. We join in the reminiscing and asked graduates from these four local high schools to tell us a little about where life has taken them in the years since graduation. Inside you’ll find profiles of a handful of Vermont natives in their late 20s — people you may have known when you were in high school. We chose a
selection of people who graduated between six and 10 years ago in the hopes that this year’s high school graduates will be able to see something of their own generation in the profiles. You’ll find a variety of vocations and avocations represented in the profiles, but they barely scratch the surface of the diversity that can be found among the young people produced in Addison County. Enjoy the stories and the photos and wish a graduate well.
MT. ABE CLASS OF 2015
PAGE 2C — Addison Independent, Thursday, June 18, 2015
Mt. Abraham Union High School CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2015!
Mt. Abe Class of 2015
Buzz Photos courtesy
Kuhn
ugMug.com sPhotography.Sm
BRISTOL — Mount Abraham Union High School held commencement exercises for the class of 2015 on Saturday, June 13, at 10 a.m. The graduates are: Wade Lawrence Acker, Joshua J. Adams, Michaela Muriel Alexander, Marie Elizabeth Arena, Emily Rose Baslow, Scott Micheal Bell, Joshua A. Bennett, Jamison Adair Bernoudy, Alison Laney Boise, Ashley Ann Boise, Haley Jae Boise, Abby Leigh Boss, Shane Michael Bowen, Isabel Claire Brennan, Ernie Thomas Brouillard Jr., Andrew Terrell Brown, Gary Philip Brown II, Dustin DJ Burbo-Schultz and Joshua Allan Burt. Also, Phillip David Cantin, Christopher Evan Carter, Augustus Attilio Catlin, Benjamin Patrick Charboneau, Luc Laurence Charlebois, Isaiah M. Chester, Mary-Katherine Ann Clark, Fisher Lightfoot Clements, Fiona Jane Cole, Ty Masterson Combs, Nicole Ashley Conner, Amanda Tyler Cousineau, Tanika Lynn Cousino, Samuel James Daniels, Garrett Scott Davis, Adrian V.
Dickerson, Peter Joshua Dickerson, Jordan Murray DiNapoli and Julia H. Douglas. Also, Angela Nichole Dupoise, Peter Montgomery Etka, Susannah Grace Provin Frey, Arrien Kimball Gadue, Ethan Joseph Gendreau, Alexander M. Germain, Brennan Rose Gervia, Matthew Edwin Giles, Teagan Masterson Glen, Jennifer Ryan Gordon, Kayce Lynne Gorton, Sarah Jane Helms Grundon, Katie Ann Hamblin, Kelsey Marie Haskins, Tyler William Hebert, Megan Leigh Hill, Alisha Marie Holtsclaw, Carina Viola Isbell, Keegan Bay Jackman, Cullen Forrest Jemison, Michael Paul Jerome and Tyrus Michael Keith. Also, Hannah Elizabeth Kirby, William Irving Kittredge, Arden Noelle Krampetz, Robin Charles Kuhns, Eliza Grace Letourneau, Jacob Tyler Lewis, Lloyd Whitney Lower, Vanessa Carly Malloy, Brandon Joseph Mansfield, Reanna M. Martin, Reed Alexandra Martin, Asher Ventura McCauley, Holly Michelle Micklas, Zachariah Ethan Ml-
cuch, Isabelle Ward Moody, Kiara Rose Myers, Nicholas Brian Myers, Amy Cameron Nault, Timothy Allen Paquette, Joseph Michael Payea, Taylor Jane Pecor, Jordan Avery Pike and Adrianna M. Ploof. Also, Kiley Anne Cogswell Pratt, Jackson Buscaglia Radler, Kelsey Jean Roberts, Joshua Jordan Roy, Kennady Roy, Joshua Alan Russin, Gabrielle Ann Ryan, Anthony David Sargent, Samantha Lynn Sargent, Joseph Vincent Sawyer, Aiden Robert Schultz, Austin Joseph Sears, April Christine Shepard, Bailey Marie Sherwin, Sarah Caitlin Sodaro, Stanley Thomas Steady, Jennifer Lynn Sumner, Lydia Ruth Galene Swindell, Tracie Lynn Taylor, Thomas Tatro Kendra, Mary Thompson, Tori Lynn Thompson, Myles John Towsley, Richard Merrill Tracey III, Clayton Thomas Andrew Trombley, Nicholas Frederick Turner, Theodore M. Weaver, Derek James Whitcomb, Stephanie Briana White, Tyler Aldan Willey and Jacob Martin Williams.
Wherever you may go,
we hope you engage give advocate volunteer in your community
All the best to this year’s grads!
United Way of Addison County PO Box 555 48 Court Street, Middlebury, VT 802-388-7189 www.UnitedWayAddisonCounty.org
Addison Independent, Thursday, June 18, 2015 — PAGE 3C
Where Are They Now? RECENT MT. ABRAHAM UNION HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES
Keil Corey, Mt. Abe 2006 Hometown, current residence, age: I grew up in Bristol, currently live in Montpelier, and am 27. Family: My father Mike, mother Diane and brother Devin What I am up to: I currently work for the Vermont Natural Resources Council as the Membership and Outreach Coordinator. How I got to where I am now: I went to Skidmore College, was a Government major and Environmental Studies minor. After traveling abroad and working in Wyoming I returned to Vermont looking for work in the environmental sector, with a particular interest in climate change and renewable energy. I owe a debt of gratitude to my friend Caleb Elder (also a Mount Abe graduate) who encouraged me to connect with Johanna Miller at VNRC to get a lay of the landscape of renewable energy and climate work in Vermont. Coincidentally, an AmeriCorps position opened up around that time with VNRC as their Community Energy and Climate Action Organizer, which I promptly applied for and was hired. The AmeriCorps position was an incredible experience and probably the single most important position that got me to where I am today. Adults to whom I can attribute my current success: There certainly have been a number of adults over the years that have been influential in pushing me forward, but the two that deserve the most credit are my parents, Mike and Diane. Their love, support, guidance and understanding have been instrumental in my personal and professional journey
over the years. How my Vermont roots have influenced who I am today: Growing up in Vermont, and in particular Addison County, directly shaped my view of the world and what I ultimately wanted to do in life: support and protect our natural environment and strong, healthy Vermont communities.
My memories of high school: I had a great high school experience overall. High points included spending every day with wonderful friends, many of whom I continue to stay in regular touch with, and winning the State Championship for soccer my junior year. No immediate low points jump out at me at the moment.
Patrick Cormany, Mt. Abe 2006 Hometown, current residence, age: I grew up in Bristol, currently live in Chicago, am 27 years old. Family: Parents Linda and Bill still live in Bristol, older brothers Dave Cormany and Noel Cormany (both also graduated from Mount Abraham). What I am up to: Currently a Senior Investment Consultant with Mesirow Financial; I help companies build strong retirement plans/portfolios for their employees. How I got to where I am now: Went to DePaul University in Chicago, majored in Investment Finance, worked for the last several years managing investments for small community banks. Adults to whom I can attribute my current success: Julie St. Martin (MAUHS math teacher) was instrumental in my shift from hating to understanding mathematical concepts, which changed my life. Alan Kamman was an amazing mentor to me. Several other teachers at Mount Abe gave me a drive to learn that I did not have before, including Rick Desorda, Randy Durant, Simone Skerrit and Tom Learmonth, among others. How my Vermont roots have influenced who I am today: My Vermont roots are everything to me. Vermont is and will forever be my home, and I am so proud and
Alexander Huizenga, Mt. Abe 2007 Hometown, current residence, age: My hometown is Bristol, Vt., I now live in Fort Collins, Colo., and I am 26. Family: Parents-Alan and Melodie Huizenga; Sister-Jillian Huizenga; Wife-Leah Grout What I am up to: Just finished my master’s degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering at Colorado State University. How I got to where I am now: I did my undergraduate degree at University of Vermont and majored in Environmental Science. Then I worked for two years at Stone Environmental Inc. in Montpelier, Vt. Most recently I attended graduate school at Colorado State University and majored in Civil and Environmental Engineering. Adults to whom I can attribute my current success: My parents were, and continue to be, very supportive and helpful. My wife (also a fellow Vermonter) has provided an amazing amount of support. She
My advice for this year’s crop of graduating seniors: My advice to graduating seniors is to cherish each day and do your best to not get caught up worrying too much about the future or the past. And to be kind, positive and have fun as much as humanly possible — my personal recipe for success. Best of luck to the, class of 2015!
pushes me to be better every day. How my Vermont roots have influenced who I am today: Growing up in Vermont is a big reason for who I am today. It provided me with a great sense of place and I am not sure I will ever truly consider anywhere else my “home.” It’s not necessarily something you think about when you are in Vermont all the time but when you consider the abundance of outdoor space and activities, the close-knit communities, and the awareness that the people have for their state you realize it is a pretty special place. My memories of high school: Low point- Losing a childhood friend in a car accident. High pointHaving a great group of friends who I am still in touch with. My advice for this year’s crop of graduating seniors: Get out an explore beyond Vermont. I doubt you’ll find anywhere better, but it’s worth trying. Vermont will be there when you get back.
blessed to have started and lived most of my life there. The extreme sense of community and friendship, the constant experience/interaction with the outdoors is something that people from other places never get to experience. I will be back permanently at some point. My memories of high school: I loved high school, I wouldn’t trade my time at Mount Abraham for anything. My advice for this year’s crop of graduating seniors: My advice would be to always balance your life. Work hard so that you can play hard, that’s what is really important in life. You can do these things at the same time. You don’t need to have straight A’s, just get your work done right and then everything will be so much easier for you going forward. Always be the best teammate you can, in any situation, it will come back to pay off for you in the end. And don’t stress about careers, you probably haven’t had the experiences yet that are going to decide the path you end up taking. The best thing you could possibly do is work in a field that you’re passionate about, because then it’s not even work. Finally, the last thing you want to do is look back on your life and regret not taking that trip, or not moving to that place, or not going to that party. It’s going to be over before you know it, so live it up.
May You Build the Future of Your Dreams!
Bristol Park Dental
Congrats to our Valedictorian
Outstanding Family Dentistry
HAPPY GRADUATION!
Mary-Kate Clark
Good Luck Class of 2015
Something to Smile About
Love, Mom, Dad & Andy
from all of us at
Enhance Your Future With a Healthy Smile Jim Cossaart, DDS are ocused C Gentle, F nt at a Time e One Pati ® umbing d N n e a is c W e r e Gentle, P Technology: Th e Innovativ
edles ! e N g i B No
Services include: Crowns and Bridges • Fillings Cleanings & Exams • Dentures • Extractions Accepting New Patients In Network for CBA Blue and Delta Dental
6 Park Place • Bristol, VT 802.453.7700 • bristolparkdental.com
Two locations to help serve you better... 859 Route 7 South, Middlebury Mon – Fri 8am-6pm Sat 8am-5pm Sun 9am-4pm 802-388-9500
68 West Street, Bristol Mon – Sat 7:30am-5:30pm Sun 9:30am-3pm 802-453-3617
PAGE 4C — Addison Independent, Thursday, June 18, 2015
Middlebury Union High School CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2015!
MIDDLEBURY — Middlebury Union High School held commencement exercises on Saturday, June 13, at 10 a.m. at the Memorial Sports Center in Middlebury. The members of the class of 2015 were: Elliott T. Abbott, Connor Michael Andrews, Marvella G. Avery, Robert G. Avery, Ashton Pierpont Bates, Zachary Eric Bechhoefer, Matthew Curtis Becker, Luke Stone Benz, Ryan Robert Biette, Riker B. Billings, Calder M. M. Birdsey, Paul E. Bougor, Logan Daniel Boyer, Kade Ellen Brilmayer, Simon-Jimmy Felix Broucke, Eliza Gale Broughton, Jazmin L. Burlett, Bryce Patrick Burrell, Caileigh Jean Bushey, Sara M.D. Byers, Alayne Mckenzie Campbell, Collin John Champine, Oliver Emerson Clark, Nathaniel Stageman Cobb, Jacob J. Codding, Jennifer Ann Cyr, Jessica Marie Cyr, Nicole Ann Cyr and Alexander R. Dalton.
MUHS Class of 2015
Also, Haley Lynn Davis, Calvin Norman Desforges, Todd M. Dorr, Harley Richmond Downey-Teachout, Samantha Deborah Duncanson, Matthew E. Dunton, Grant Alan Durham, Caitlynn Marie Duval, John P. Eastman, Burke T. Farrell, Zachary R. Feehan, Seamus Flint, Samantha Paige Foote, Amy Joe Forbes, Cameron Levi Forbes, Wyatt S. Forbes, Brooke Kimberlyn Gaboriault, Kaitlyn Grace Gaboriault, Hunter M. Gallipo, Madeline Anh Ganey, Aaron M. Gerow, Ian David Gill, Christopher W. Gobbi and Andie Lynn Guran. Also, Michael G. Gyukeri, Patrick A. Hanley, Cullen Jon Hathaway, Eva Kristin Hirsch, JoAnna Anita Hitchcock, Katherine Amelia Holmes, Samuel Welch Holmes, Joseph Peyton Hounchell, CareyAnne Howlett, Kristina L. Howlett, Jordan Louise Hubbell, Kaitlin E. Huber, Isabella
C. Jackson, Adam Hewat Joselson, Emily Guerin Kiernan, Samuel A. Killorin, Kelsie Ann Kimball, Aidan Eliza Lillian Kirby, Hailey A. LaBounty, Nathan James Lalonde, Abigail C. Lane, Courtney Jean Lang, Autumn Reighn LaPlant, Jacob D. Lawson, Anne E. Lindholm, Sophia Justine Logan, Benn A. Lussier, Lejla Mahmuljin and Janelle Florence Mandigo. Also, Ahleiyah Adele Mason-Rivera, Emile Y. Mathez, John David McAninch, Jonathan Ryan McCluskey, Carly Skye McGrath-Turnbull, Ethan Paul Meacham, Maegan Anne Mitchell, Tiffany Taylor Moricette, Alyzza Brooke Odell, Nathaniel E. Orvis, Alexis Fern Ouellette, Michelle Alexandra Peterson, Philip J. Pierce, James Ploof, Lucas Bram Plouffe, Eric John Podraza, Lauren Kate Poppenga, Krisandra L. Provencher, Victoria Rose Anne Provost, Dorothy Linda Punderson,
Deanetta L. Putnam, Colton M. Quesnel, Connor Daniel Quinn, Keri Ann Richmond, Robert Cosgrove Ritter, Cameron A. Roberts and Austin Patrick Robinson. Also, Julia Rae Rosenberg, Baily Patricia Ryan, Evan J. Ryan, Mary Margaret Shackett-Brouillard, Harper Anne Smith, Emma Parr SnyderWhite, Jerald F. Staret, Paige Lyn Stocker, Hannah Sutton Stoll, Justin Gardner Stone, Mallissa Ellen Sumner, Helena M. Tavis, Katherine Marie Townsend, Bo Linh Tran, Isiah M. Treadway, Isabel Marie Velez, Wyott J. Warner, Megann Willow Watkins, John D. Weaver, Thomas M. Weaver, Maranda A. Weekes, Samantha J. Wells, Allison M. White and Jesse Marie Wulfman.
May your future be
Go o t y a W Tigers!
Congratulations Class of 2015!
&
BRIGHT COLORFUL!
802-388-6054 M-F 7:30-5:30, Sat. 8-3 16 Creek Road, Middlebury, VT • countrysidecarpetandpaint.com
Addison Independent, Thursday, June 18, 2015 — PAGE 5C
Where Are They Now? RECENT MIDDLEBURY UNION HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES
Alison DeGraff, MUHS 2006 Hometown, current residence, age: Grew up in Middlebury and currently live in St. Augustine, Trinidad (in the Caribbean). 26 years old. Family: Parents: Lyn and Peter DeGraff. Grandmother: Lorrie Muller. Sister: Kristen DeGraff (MUHS ’09, Midd ’13.5) What I am up to: I am currently in a M.Sc. degree program in Geoinformatics at the University of the West Indies. My thesis research is on the use of participatory mapping to build resilience to the impacts of climate change on small island developing states (SIDS) in the Caribbean. How I got to where I am now: I graduated from Middlebury College with the class of 2010.5 where I majored in Geography with minors in Portuguese and Latin American History. I attended the Middlebury Language Schools for Arabic in 2005 and for Portuguese in 2008. I spent a gap (“Feb”) semester studying Arabic in Cairo, Egypt (2006) and a semester abroad in Florianópolis, Brazil (2009). After graduation from Middlebury, I received an internship from National Geographic and then was chosen for a prestigious fellowship (Compton Mentor Fellowship — similar to the Fulbright or the Watson), which allowed me to conduct research on participatory mapping in the Caribbean islands of the transboundary Grenadines. After that I worked with a Middlebury College alumnus in Maine as a cartographer before being accepted to graduate school back in the Caribbean. Adults to whom I can attribute my current success: My family has always been a huge part in defining who I am today, between a graphic designer mother and engineer father — cartographer was a strangely perfect choice. They have always cheered me on and allowed me to follow my passions around the world. Holly McKenzie at Mary Hogan encouraged my love
of the outdoors and natural science and she is still a great friend and mentor to this day. Michelle Forman at MUHS nurtured my early language and travel instincts and, through the Arabic Club, helped me prepare to for the Arabic Language School and my gap semester in Cairo. Professor Anne Knowles at Middlebury College was also an incredibly valuable influence in my undergraduate years, who encouraged my interest in participatory mapping and exploring the intersection of the human side of geography with the technical side of GIS. How my Vermont roots have influenced who I am today: I am a small town girl who is most happy outside of an urban landscape and out in nature. The move from a Vermont town to a tiny Caribbean island is a much smaller leap than people think, and does not change my love for the seasonal extremes of skiing the white snow at the Snow Bowl or snorkeling in the blue-green waters in the West Indies. My memories of high school: My favorite memories of high school include attending the New England Young Writers Conference (NEYWC) at Breadloaf, running track, Rosetta Stone with Arabic Club, and developing photos in the darkroom. Low points? AP exams and the SATs were probably my least favorite times of high school, there is nothing enjoyable about sitting in a timed test with a bunch of other similarly stressed-out students! My advice for this year’s crop of graduating seniors: Even though you may have a specific passion now, never feel like that has to limit your future opportunities. Throughout my life I wanted to be an astronaut, a naturalist, a writer, a linguist, and a cartographer; and I cannot imagine how different my life might be if I had refused any of those opportunities or not explored any of those interests!
Jeremy Peterson, MUHS 2007 Samantha Funk, MUHS 2007 Hometown, current residence, age: Middlebury, Boston, 26 Family: Parents – Bill & Doreen Peterson. Siblings: Nathaniel, Adam & Michelle What I am up to: I work for a software company called Pegasystems as a developer. I get to travel a lot, which was one of the reasons I joined. How I got to where I am now: I went to Tufts University and majored in electrical engineering. One job that helped me along the way was working at the IT helpdesk at Middlebury College my sophomore summer in college. My boss, Nate Burt, took me under his wing and helped me build a technical foundation that I use to this day. Adults to whom I can attribute my current success: Middlebury is a wonderful community that provided many role models for me to follow. One that I would like to mention is Kevin Parizo. I took piano lessons from him for 10 years. He was a great instructor and — outside of music — a wonderful mentor. He instilled a work ethic in me that has been beneficial in all areas of my life. How my Vermont roots have influenced who I am today: Growing up in Addison County gave me a unique perspective on life. Though I now live in a city, my upbringing is always pushing me to go out, exercise and to enjoy nature. Also, people in Vermont are thoughtful, kind and caring and I do my best to carry those qualities with me. Cities like Burlington and Montpelier are sui generis treasures that I did not fully appreciate until I left. I never understood why the state didn’t allow bill-
boards and other commercial monuments, but now, I get it. Finally, farmers are awesome, Monument Farms rules! My memories of high school: I remember high school as a busy time in my life. There was a lot going on and time did funny things. A week was forever yet a year was fleeting. My low point was losing the football state championship to Rutland. Conversely, covering a Talking Heads song with my friends in the talent show was one of the many high points. My advice for this year’s crop of graduating seniors: It is amazing how many second chances you will get in life. You can constantly reinvent yourself. This varies from seemingly small things to large changes. A lot of people in college changed their names to help with a fresh start (I knew an Evan who changed his name to Van and a Sarah-Kate who phonetically changed her name to Sir-Ah-Kah-Tay). A coworker I had who was not happy with his programming job gave his two week notice and moved out to California to open up his own frozen yogurt shop. The ability to learn something different is almost a superpower. By dedicating a small amount of time a day to mastering something new, things quickly fall into place. Try to meet new people, experience different cultures, and keep an open mind. Although I studied to be an engineer in college, I tried to better myself in as many areas as possible. I took public speaking, massage therapy, modern dance and many other random courses that pushed me outside of my comfort zone.
Congratulations to all our local 2015 Graduates!
Hometown, current residence, age: I grew up in East Middlebury and currently live down the road in Pittsford. I am 25 years old. Family: My parents Peter and Clara Funk now live in Cornwall and supported my brothers, Jon and Tim, and myself, through our years to get us where we are today. My oldest brother, Jon, a 2003 graduate of MUHS, now works as a Project Engineer for Husqvarna in the Lawn Mowers Division at the U.S. headquarters in Charlotte, N.C. Tim, a 2006 MUHS graduate, is a senior account manager with PC Connection Inc. All three of us were fortunate to attend Middlebury schools from kindergarten through high school. What I am up to: I have been a counselor since 2005 for Camp Kookamunga. For the past seven years I have been the director of the camp and have enjoyed spending my summers in Middlebury. During the past three school years, I have been the music educator at Lothrop Elementary in Pittsford and the bell choir director for the First Congregational Church in Manchester. In August, I will be starting a new chapter of my life working at Union Elementary School in Montpelier as their general music educator for grades K-4. How I got to where I am now: After graduating MUHS, I attended Castleton State College to pursue a degree in Music Education and a secondary endorsement in Art Education. I returned to Middlebury to complete my art student teaching at MUHS with Marshall Eddy and with Alyce Schermerhorn at Mary Hogan
Elementary. It was a wonderful experience to be on “the other side” of the ACSU. It was no surprise that all teachers support each other and their students. I was fortunate to do my music student teaching with Gretchen Dorian at Clarendon Elementary, and secondary student teaching at Burr and Burton Academy. Julie and Neil Freebern, BBA’s incredible music educators, prepared me for the career that I love. I completed my degree in Music Education with an endorsement in Art Education in 2011 through
Castleton. While attending, I met my fiancé Andrew Lafleur, who recently finished his Master’s and is now an occupational therapist. Andrew and I will be getting married next September. Adults to whom I can attribute my current success: I would not be where I am today without all of the teachers in the ACSU. Special thanks for nurturing my passions MUHS Principal William Lawson; teachers Liz LeBeau, Anne Severy, Steve Small, Candace Burkle, Marshall Eddy and Joe Bolger; all of my sports coaches; and athletic director Sean Farrell. My memories of high school: I cannot recall a low point of high school but can recount numerous fond memories. I remember playing in the girls’ ice hockey championship game in 2004 with Coach Yvon Pouliot. We played into double overtime and lost, but it was a remarkable game. I remember wearing the infamous “wings” as a field hockey player and later playing field hockey in college for Castleton for four years. Classes and friends come to mind often and I wish I could go back to the free blocks spent in the senior lounge. Another fond pastime was participating in the 2005 Middlebury All States as a soprano and thinking, “Wow, how great would it be to teach music as a career?” My advice for this year’s crop of graduating seniors: For all of the current graduates, always follow your intuitions, share your passions and live every day to its fullest. Congratulations to you, and best of luck!
Congratulations Class of 2015!
Best Wishes, John & Jim Fitzgerald
Addison County Automotive #1 Washington Street, Middlebury 388-7878 • Mon.-Fri. 7-5 • Sat. 8-12
Telecommunications Sales & Service Data Cabling & Fiber Optics
802-388-8999
PAGE 6C — Addison Independent, Thursday, June 18, 2015
Vergennes Union High School CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2015!
VUHS Class of 2015 VERGENNES — Vergennes Union High School held its graduation ceremonies for the class of 2015 on Friday, June 12, at 6 p.m. The graduates were: April Lee Ambrose, Dana Allen Ambrose Jr., Kathleen Claudia Ambrose, Christian D. Austin, Donny L. Austin, Brice Bean, Ashlie Lauren Bodington, Alexander Thomas Bushey, Derek M. Campbell, Christopher James Castillo, Kayla Lynne Charron, Glen Childers, Grady J.R. Clark,
Jason Hurd Clark, Grace E. Corbett, Felicia Marie Cornet, Paige E. Coyle, Brittney M. Cram, Sebastien Drew Crowell, Noah R. Dartt, Emily Jean Delgadillo, Ericka Margaret Delisle, C Dendler, Bailey Nathaniel Dieterle and Caleb Dustin Dion-Johnson. Also, Jacob L. Dombek, Rachel Katherine Duke, Arianna Larisa Duprey, Erik Teos Eisenhower, Peter Thomas Ferland, Zachary Edward Gebo, Liam C. Godfrey-Jolicoeur, Isaiah R. Goff, Julie E. Grace,
Siobhan Emily Haggett, Hannah L. Hatch, Liam Gerard Hayes, EmmaLea R. Hearthstone, Dustin M. Hirtle, Emily Annette Howard, Kay L. Huestis, Elan J. Hugo, Tia S. Hunt, Nicholas G. Jackson, Andrew D. Kayhart, Samantha Kepes, Tėa Marie Kiefer, Cassandra G. King, Robert Lafountaine, Devin M. Lavoie, Christopher Harold Leach, Kylie Leach, Deighlin H. Lynes, Montana M. Mackey, Katrina Mayer, Ryan T. McEntee, John A. McEvilla and
VERGENNES VERGENNES
REDEMPTION CENTER
Wesley T. Miedema. Also, Harrison A. Miller, Lindsay Nicole Morley, Evan T. Myers, Jakob A. Norton, Joshua D. Paquette, Lucas Paquin, Stephanie A. Praamsma, Tyler W. Proulx, Lucas Ramon, Dylan A. Raymond, Cathrine Sheridan Richards, Jane Russell, Aran M. Self, Shawna Marie Shortsleeve, Anthony R. Smith, Jr., Allyson N. Stearns, Lucas Carey Stinchfield, Paige Christine Stolen, Emily Tichonuk, Morgan M. Tomsuden, Ryan F.
Congratulations Grads -
Full Line of Beverages and Full Deli Too! OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!
Valiquette, Chantelle G. VanAmburg, Mikayla Ann VanderWey, John William Wagner, Cooper Warden, Emily M. Weber, Ashley Wildasin, Marinna Beaudoin Wojciechowski, and Ronald W. Yantz III.
in upon o c s i g th
Brin
for a
nt u o c s % di air of
Hoping you all can SEE a GREAT FUTURE AHEAD!
20a complete pses with
Congratulations to the
Class of 2015!
len on s and eye exam. e m a fr utine any ro 5
/15/1
G
hru 8 oo d t
Stop in or call us today!
802-877-2422
15 MAIN STREET VERGENNES • 877-6768 Mon-Sat 5am-8pm • Sun 7am-7pm
NOW OPEN!
27 Main Street, Vergennes VT • Mon. 8-4, Tues. – Fri. 8-5
Bottle Redemption Hours: 8am-7pm
CCoom meecchheecckk oouuttoouurrB
Addison Independent, Thursday, June 18, 2015 — PAGE 7C
Where Are They Now? RECENT VERGENNES UNION HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES
Alexandra Larrow, VUHS 2007 Hometown, current residence, age: I am now 25 years old. I currently live in Vergennes after living in Massachusetts for the past two years. Family: No siblings, just my awesome parents, Jim and Nancy Larrow. What I am up to: Currently, I work as a Practice Support Specialist at the UVM Medical Center. How I got to where I am now: I graduated from Middlebury College in 2011 with a degree in English and American Literature. I also studied abroad in Norwich, England, at the University of East Anglia. After graduation I lived and worked in the Burlington area for about a year, then I moved to Massachusetts and worked in floral design and fine dining. Adults to whom I can attribute my current success: Other than my parents, I have to attribute a lot of my success to Cookie Step. She was my history teacher in high school, and I remember her immediate desire to get me involved in extracurricular activities. Because of her, I won the state American
Legion Oratorical contest twice, placed in numerous other speaking competitions, found success within the Miss Vermont Scholarship Organization, and had the confidence to apply to Middlebury College. If it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t have the skills required to interview or communicate effectively, which
have been invaluable as I navigate the post-college world. How my Vermont roots have influenced who I am today: After moving out of state, I realized that Vermont is truly home, and where I belong. I love the small town feeling, the incredible amount of community support, and the personal connections you make everywhere you go. My memories of high school: My high point was always being involved in the musicals. I loved the music department at Vergennes, and the musical was always the highlight of my year. My low point was probably just the stress involved with the college application process. I was very lucky to have amazing parents and teachers helping me through the process, but it can certainly create a lot of self doubt and cause you to be overly critical, regardless of the number of accomplishments you may have. My advice for this year’s crop of graduating seniors: Take advantage of every opportunity. You never know who you might meet or how they may help you in the future, especially in a small state like Vermont.
Jamie Watkins, VUHS 2006 Hometown, current residence, age: Grew up in Ferrisburgh. Currently living in Brooklyn, NYC. Currently 26 years old. Family: My parents still live in Ferrisburgh. My sister lives in NYC working as a media monitor for Mayor De Blasio. My brother is getting his Master’s in Architecture from University of Michigan. What I am up to: I work as a theater director, performer and teaching artist in New York City. I have been directing and acting in professional productions for the past five years, and have recently started an independent theater company called Current Harbor, which is based in Brooklyn. I have also been teaching filmmaking, theater and comedy at public schools and camps throughout NYC and New England. How I got to where I am now: I went to Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. It’s a great school! I had the pleasure of making a lot of personal and professional connections that have helped me with my work. I was a drama major, and the school provided a strong liberal arts curriculum, encouraging students to branch out and study as many subjects as possible. “Keep learning” is certainly the best advice I ever got from mentors and teachers throughout my education and early career. Continued and
diverse learning is the best way to feed your life and work as an artist. Keep reading, keep listening, keep seeing great and terrible movies, and DEFINITELY keep going to see your friend’s band perform at 242 Main. Adults to whom I can attribute my current success: The faculty at VUHS was extremely supportive of me during my time there. For a small school in a tiny city, there is a huge amount of support and excitement about literature, science, music and culture. In one way or another, all of my teachers at VUHS attributed to my work to date. Also, Addison County’s incredible non-profit institutions, the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum in particular, definitely inspired me to pursue a career steeped in creativity, education and a joyful curiosity about the world in which we live. Plus I still have (and use) my kayak that I built during Champlain Discovery! How my Vermont roots have influenced who I am today: Growing up in Vermont gave me an inherent appreciation of the value of community. This year I was home for Memorial Day weekend, and had the pleasure of going to the parade and hearing the speeches in the park. I was struck by how much it meant to me to take part in this annual celebration of our city, the state and our country as a whole. It didn’t feel quaint or small, the
event felt vital. Working now in a city as large as New York City, my Vermont roots continually remind me of the importance of staying connected to the community in which I live. And the importance of making work that supports and celebrates that community! My memories of high school: The low points ... Probably having shin splints while doing the musical “Crazy For You,” and soccer at the same time. But looking back at the high points, they always revolve around the unique thrill of when the school community would come together as a whole. Performing in the band and choir, attending basketball games, student elections, graduations, or even participating in yelling contests during AP Literature class. My advice for this year’s crop of graduating seniors: Stay in touch with each other! It’s been amazing to reconnect with VUHS alums throughout the past nine years. I’ve even had the pleasure of working with them on creative endeavors, which was awesome. Your peers and teachers are a builtin system of support and trust, and that system becomes even more valuable with time. Stay connected with the people who shaped you as a young adult — whether that’s friends, teachers, mentors, or family. Vermont is a special place to grow up!
VUHS Class of 2015
Congratulations Class of 2015 It has been our privilege to watch you grow!
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! Congratulations & Good Luck to the Class of 2015!
388-1338 L-R: Tawnya Kiernan, MD; Kathleen Lombard, FNP-BC; Jack Mayer, MD; Lauren Young, FNP-BC; Kate McIntosh, MD; Monica Benjamin, RN
ROUSE TIRE • RT. 7 SOUTH • MIDDLEBURY • 388-4053
Walk-ins everyday from 8:00-8:45am for our patients. Evening hours available We accept new patients & most insurances
44 Collins Drive, Middlebury (Next to Porter Hospital) • www.rainbowvt.com
PAGE 8C — Addison Independent, Thursday, June 18, 2015
Otter Valley Union High School CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2015!
OVUHS Class of 2015 BRANDON — Otter Valley Union High School’s commencement ceremonies took place Saturday, June 6. The members of the class of 2015 are: Travis Alger, Dacey Anechiarico, Ryan Barker, Mei Lin Barral, Derek Bassette, Hunter Birchmore, Kylee Bissette, Megan Bixby, Dakota Booska, Lyndsey Bradley, Marissa Colburn, David Coolidge, Brenna Coombs, Brenda Cram, Nicholas Cram, Ryan Cram, Randy Disorda, Sheri Duprey, Jenna Elliott, Nora Enright, Randi Fjeld, Chakiya Frasier, Kika Frye-Johnson, Connor Gallipo and Curstin Hemple. Also, Samantha Hitchcock, Alexander Hunt, Tori Hunt, Andrew Jerome, Heather Johnson, Josh Kimball, Christo-
pher Lackard, Joshua Litch, Benjamin Lones, Amy Mailhiot, Eric Manning, Maxwell Maron, Katy McCarthy, Gage Mitchell, Vytas Nielsen, Liam Noonan, Alexander
Notte, Miranda Platts, Jason Rice, Isaac Roberts, Laura Beth Roberts, David Rollins, Margaret Santell, Briana Saunders, Cody Scarborough, Jacob Scarborough, Josef
Scarborough, Adam Sherwin, Julia Smart, Noel Smart, Margaret Smith, Katrina Taylor, Emmett Thurston, Kirsten Werner, John Winslow and Sarah Young.
Addison Independent, Thursday, June 18, 2015 — PAGE 9C
Where Are They Now? RECENT OTTER VALLEY UNION HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES
Joanna Flynn, OVUHS 2007 Hometown, current residence, age: I am 25 years old and I grew up in Brandon, Vt., and am currently living in Portland, Maine. Family: My mother, Melly Flynn, works as a librarian at OVUHS and my father, Joe Flynn, is an occupational therapist at a rehab facility in Rutland. My brother Dan is a lawyer in New York and my other brother Andrew is a GIS technician and works in Rutland. What I am up to: After school, I moved to Portland, Maine, where I now work as a licensed physical therapist in an outpatient clinic at Southern Maine Health Care. I mainly work with general orthopedic and neurologic populations, do aquatic therapy, and also have a specialty in treating patients with Parkinson’s Disease. How I got to where I am now: I attended the University of Vermont and did an accelerated physical therapy doctoral program and was part of the UVM fencing club. At UVM, I majored in Sociology and minored in Anthropology for my undergraduate degree and then went on to get my Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2013. I have been at my current job since passing my boards and love helping people every day. Adults to whom I can attribute my current success: There were many adults who helped me along the way. I couldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for the support and love of my parents. My fencing
coach, Viveka Fox, was an integral person in my life for many years, who reinforced that women can be strong and helped me to see the importance of compassion for others. Also Mikie Cioffredi, who teaches Advanced Anatomy at OV, and has been very influential in shaping my career path. Mikie fostered my love and interest in human anatomy, and directed me toward the path of physical therapy by having her class visit a PT clinic as a field trip. Mikie also encouraged me to shadow a physical therapist during a free block I had my senior year, which got my foot in the door for
PT school. Her passion surrounding human anatomy and physiology was inspiring to see and perpetuates my drive toward continual learning. How my Vermont roots have influenced who I am today: Growing up in Vermont has helped me develop my love for the outdoors. I was lucky enough to have the time during one summer in grad school to hike the Long Trail. This experience helped me to appreciate the beauty of Vermont and inspired me to always adventure further. Being raised in Vermont has also shaped my sense of place and helped me to understand the importance of community. No matter where I travel, I’m always drawn back to those rolling green hills! My memories of high school: I was part of a fencing club, the Vermont Fencing Alliance out of Middlebury, all through high school. One of my high points during high school was competing in the Junior Olympics several years in a row and being able to travel the U.S. with my team. My low points were likely the same as many other high schoolers, with the stresses of figuring out my future and the fear of failure, but these low points were a powerful incentive for working harder to get where I am today. My advice for this year’s crop of graduating seniors: Take advantage of any opportunity that comes your way and don’t be afraid to try new things.
OVUHS Class of 2015
Taryn Mason, OVUHS 2007 Hometown, current residence, age: I grew up in Brandon, Vermont, I currently live in Rochester, Vermont. I’m 26 years old. Family: My parents are Charles and Johnna Foster. I have a sister Leah Foster Field who graduated from Otter Valley in 2005. I have a five-year-old nephew who is the coolest person on the planet! I am married to Cole Mason. He is a teacher at Rochester High School. We were married in Brandon last summer. No children other than our wonderful black Lab named Fenway. What I am up to and how did I get here: After graduating from high school I moved to Iowa to attend Cornell College. I played softball there and majored in exercise science. Following graduation from Cornell in 2011 I went immediately into graduate school at Palmer College of Chiropractic also in Iowa.
I moved back to Vermont about a year ago for an internship at Fostering Wellness. I graduated from Palmer College as a Doctor of Chiropractic in October of 2014. I now work as a chiropractor primarily at Randolph Chiropractic Associates in Randolph. I also spend time working at Fostering Wellness in Brandon and Rutland. Adults to whom I can attribute my current success: I attribute my current success primarily to my parents, who always supported my goal of becoming a chiropractor. I also attribute a lot of my current success to my husband, who encouraged me as I was going through college and graduate school and dealt with the highs and lows that came with that. How my Vermont roots have influenced who I am today: Growing up in such a beautiful place as Vermont has built into me a love for the outdoors. I also have a great apprecia-
tion for small town life. My memories of high school: My high point in high school was probably in general just playing softball and the success I experienced there. The low point was probably falling short of a softball state championship my junior and senior years. At the time I though my dreams were squashed and I was heartbroken. It’s funny now because that seems so small in the scheme of things but when I was in high school softball was my world. My advice for this year’s crop of graduating seniors: My advice to graduating seniors would be to stay in touch with the people who have touched your life. It is a lot harder than you originally imagine that it will be if you go away to college. There are many people who will continue to influence you throughout your life both friends and mentors, it is important to stay in touch with those people.
Congratulations Graduates We’ve enjoyed our first decade of being DISTINCTIVE.
Wishing YOU many decades of Distinction in the years to come! Visit During our 10th Anniversary Celebration Great Offers Storewide Specials Unlimited Creativity Shop Local
388-2500
1396 Rte 7 South Middlebury, VT
M- F 7:30-5:30 Sat. 8-1 www.distinctivepaintvt.com
PAGE 10C — Addison Independent, Thursday, June 18, 2015
HERE’S TO WHEREVER YOUR FUTURE TAKES YOU!
Congratulations
Andrea, Bill and John are here for your insurance and financial needs
Mt Abe Graduates!
453-6600
Wishing you all a
35 West St., Bristol VT
Healthy and Happy Future!
Serving Vermonters for over 100 years.
www.paigeandcampbell.com
B fit Membership Special Graduating Seniors: $75/summer Add the rest of your family for an additional $225!
Congratulations to Keegan Jackman and the Class of 2015! Good luck on your future endeavors!
Check Out the Class Schedule at edgevtwellness.com
From the folks at
Jackman’s Inc. Heating Oils • LP Gas • Diesel Fuel • Kerosene Wood Pellets, Firewood and Coal • Mulch • Animal Bedding
14 School Street, Bristol VT • 453-5205
Supplier of Generac Generators and Pellet Stoves 32 Pine Street • Bristol • 453-2381
Let Bristol Fitness help you towards your wellness goals.
w w w. J a c k m a n s I n c . c o m
Congratulations Grads – You’re on your way! Special Congratulations to Angela Dupoise
Serving Addison County Since 1988
Wishing Graduates and Their Families A Lifetime of Health & Happiness!
YOU Y OU CA CAN GET BY MAIL ON A
FIRESTONE VISA PREPAID CARD ®
• Free, same-day delivery (call for details)/Compounding Pharmacy • 24/7 prescription refills (phone, Smartphone, on-line) • Frequent In-Store specials on a wide selection of products • No hassle prescription transfers. PLUS! A $25 giftcard for new patients • Affordable generic extended day supply program • Free Children’s Vitamin Program – Start them off right! • Take Charge® Lifestyle Counseling & Weight Loss Program • Solutions Rx Restore® Learn how to relieve the most common side effects of medication-induced nutrient depletion and feel better
**
WHEN YOU BUY FOUR ELIGIBLE TIRES.
∆
OFFER VALID MAY 15–JULY 15,, 2015
AND DOUBLE YOUR REWARD TO WHEN YOU MAKE A QUALIFYING ING PU PURCHASE URCHASE WI W WITH ITH YOUR NEW OR EXISTING CFNA CREDIT CARD ACCOUNT.^
We are your independent, hometown community pharmacy and our friendly staff looks forward to being of service to you and your family. Our pharmacists are always ready to answer your questions. We offer competitive prices & free delivery. Let us be your partner in your healthcare. Stop in today and see why our customers are so loyal!
**Prepaid card is issued by MetaBank®, Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. The prepaid card is given to you as a reward and no money has been paid by you for the card. No cash access or recurring payments. Card valid for up to 6 months, unused funds forfeit at midnight EST the last day of the month of the valid thru date. Card terms and conditions apply; see MyPrepaidCenter.com/site/visa-promo. ∆Offer good in the U.S. Claim form required. Certain restrictions and limitations apply. For complete details, see your participating Firestone retailer or FirestoneTire.com. Eligible tires: Destination A/T, Destination M/T, Destination LE & LE2, Firehawk Wide Oval Indy 500® or Firehawk Wide Oval A/S. Eligible tires must be purchased from a participating Firestone retailer’s inventory May 15–July 15, 2015. OFFER EXCLUDES COSTCO PURCHASES. Void in Puerto Rico. Call 1-877-TIRE USA to find a retailer near you. Cannot be combined with any other offer. ^To receive the $140 Firestone Visa Prepaid Card by mail you must purchase a set of 4 eligible Firestone tires with your new or existing CFNA credit card account. The full 9-digit account number must be provided at time of submission. The new CFNA account cannot be closed within 7 days of its opening. The Firestone Visa Prepaid Card cannot be used to pay any credit card balance. CFNA reserves the right to alter, change or terminate the higher value reward option at any time. Offer valid only in the U.S. and where permitted. MetaBank does not endorse this credit card offer. TM
TM
TM
Family owned & forStreet over 30 years. 187 operated Main Oldest locally owned Vergennes • 877-1190 & operated tire center!
TM
TM
TM
TM
Addison County’s No. 1 Pharmacy
33 Seymour St. • Middlebury, VT
The under car care specialists
OP E N 7 DAYS
Middlebury & Vergennes
In Bristol Works!
Marble Works, Middlebury • 388-3784
187 Main Street Vergennes • 877-1190
Addison County’s
61 Pine Street Bristol • 453-2999
We welcome you and your family! www.marbleworkspharmacy.com We welcome you For more info and pharmacy hours:
388-7620
countytirecenter.com
We are your independent, hometown community
W
Addison Independent, Thursday, June 18, 2015 — PAGE 11C
May your success in life be enhanced with fitness & wellness!
$89 High School Student Membership now through Labor Day! $99 College Student Membership now through Labor Day! Middlebury
388-6888
vermontsun.com
Vergennes
877-2030
Congratulations, Class of 2015! May you always reach for your dreams. John Fuller, Master Plumber • 388-2019 Serving Addison County since 1989
Congratulations Class of
5 1 20
Wherever your road takes you – you can always come home to
Serving Addison County Since 1948
510 Rt. 7 So. • Middlebury, VT 802-388-4932 www.deneckerchevrolet.com
14 Main St. • Vergennes. VT 802-877-3600
PAGE 12C — Addison Independent, Thursday, June 18, 2015
Best Wishes for your future...
...from the team at International Paper’s Ticonderoga Mill
CONGRATULATIONS 2015 GRADUATES
©Andy Ryan, photo courtesy HNTB
CONGRATULATIONS Derek & Keri May your dreams take you... ... to the corners of your smiles, to the highest of your hopes, to the windows of your opportunities, and to the most special places your heart has ever known. Derek Whitcomb
And wherever those dreams take you, your friends & family will cheer your efforts and suport your challenges.
“DELIVERING THE BEST SANDWICH IN TOWN.”
Congratulations to all of our Local Graduates!
Keri Richmond
With love and encouragement from the families of Champlain Valley Plumbing & Heating.
PLUMBING • HEATING 453-2325
FUEL DELIVERY 388-4975
125 Monkton Road, Bristol, VT
185 Exchange St., Middlebury
Addison Wellness, Inc. dba
wells physical therapy
Congratulations to our students from Mt. Abraham, Middlebury, Otter Valley and Vergennes 10% off for graduates with this ad through July 31st, 2015 Marble Works, Middlebury DELIVERING OPEN TO CLOSE Monday – Friday 8am - 7pm Saturday & Sunday 11am - 7pm 175 Wilson Road, Suite 101 Middlebury, VT • 802-388-3533
www.nooniesdeli.com • 388-0014