Villanova’s Class of 2023 looks to a promising future

By Fred Groves

Graduation is only the beginning.

That was the continual theme at this year’s St. Thomas of Villanova High School graduation.

The school’s 33rd ceremony, honouring the class of 2023 was held last Wednesday night at Windsor’s WFCU Centre.

“High school is not the pinnacle of our lives. It’s only the beginning,” said Natalie Corazza who gave the salutatory address.

She was one of 304 grads who donned their caps and gowns, waited for their names to be called and their future read out for all to hear.

Corozza recalled when they all entered the doors of the school for the first time and added that it is important to work harder and smarter.

“Now in the summer of ‘23’ we will walk out those same doors a little older and a little wiser.”

Numerous benefactors generously gave out bursaries, among them Amherstburg’s Peter Leardi from 67 Richmond Clothiers, Fort Malden Guild of Arts Crafts, the LaSalle Firefighters, the LaSalle Police Youth Foundation and the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.

Father Matt Kucharski told the students that the doors are now open, and students will now be part of the marvel of life and creation.

“We thank you for the friendships that have been formed here,” he said.

While a few students have decided to return to Villanova for a fifth year, of the

304 graduates, over 100 are continuing their education at the University of Windsor. According to the night’s ceremony director, Jenna Borrelli-Hunt, the local university is providing $740,000 in renewable grants.

“I want to thank the colleges and universities who have awarded our graduates with scholarships worth thousands of dollars,” said Borrelli-Hunt.

Kiara Blaic is headed to the University of Toronto and there was collective applause when it was announced she was receiving over $180,000 in scholarships.

There were numerous graduates who are moving on with distinction including Madison Beltran who was the recipient of the College Foundation, Christian Fellowship and Lt. Governors Award for her numerous community service hours.

This year’s Valedictorian Robbie Durling is headed to St. Clair College, and he reminded his classmates of how far they have come in four years that included studying through the pandemic.

“Fellow graduates, we did it. It’s been a long journey,” said Durling.

That long journey included unprecedented learning from home, cancellation of clubs and sports and even postponement of exams.

“Maybe it was not the best learning environment, but you can’t beat pajama day, every day.”

Whether they are going off to postsecondary institutions, taking a gap year, heading into apprentice programs are going to work their first full-time jobs, the future looks bright and promising for the 2023 Class of St. Thomas of Villanova.