5 minute read
Class of 2024 Will Rock the World
Class of 2024 Will Rock the World
Rosanne Fortier - News Correspondent
The sentiment the 27 graduates of St. Mary’s Catholic School’s compassion and creativity will help them make a difference was echoed throughout the speeches at the Graduation Ceremony and Banquet at Vegreville Social Centre on May 24.
The theme was, ‘Don’t take life too seriously, you’ll never make it out alive.’
Jade Lappa and Selby Labuschagne were the emcees.
Selby read a letter on behalf of Honourable MP for Lakeland/Vegreville Shannon Stubbs. “2024 is the Year of the Dragon. A dragon is a significant symbol of power, strength, and wisdom. When filling the pages of your life story, use your inner power to be imaginative and ambitious. Use your inner strength to be passionate and self-assured and use wisdom as your guiding light. Class of 2024, go out there, make your mark, and be a dragon!”
Selby read the note from Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk, Honourable MLA for Fort Saskatchewan/Vegreville and Parliamentary Secretary for Settlement Services and Ukrainian Evacuees.
“Each one of you is capable of accomplishing great things. Your community waits with anticipation and excitement to see the incredible people you will continue to grow into.”
Next on the stage was Mayor Tim MacPhee. “Let us take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to the parents and the guardians. Your unwavering love, support, and sacrifices have made these young individuals into the remarkable adults we see before us.
To the teachers, your dedication, passion, and commitment have been instrumental in shaping these young minds.
To our graduates, today, we celebrate your achievements, hard work, and perseverance as you stand on the threshold of a new chapter in your life. I want to share a few words of wisdom; embrace change, never stop learning, be resilient, and give back to your community.”
After this, EICS Trustee Teresa Makowecki commented, “I would like to share a powerful story with you. At a conference not too long ago, I was asked to rate myself out of 10 in all regards, I hesitated and wrote down a seven. It was then I was gently reminded by a kind soul that in God’s eyes, I am always a perfect 10. No matter our circumstances or struggles, we are all a 10 in Jesus’ eyes. This simple yet profound message resonated deeply with me. When you embark on this next chapter of your lives, remember you are a 10 in Jesus’ eyes.”
Then Assistant Superintendent Brett Cox expressed that the world is waiting for these graduates. “There will be times that you will encounter challenges. You will make good choices. But unfortunately, you will probably make some poor ones along the way too and that is okay. See Christ in everything and everyone and take time to enjoy it. It is a long journey. With the support of your faith, your family, strong educational background, you are ready to navigate any situation. The relationships you have will be the foundation of your future success. Let your faith in yourself and all you can achieve be stronger than any fears you have.”
Mr. Murphy represented the Administration. “The advice I would give the Class of 2024 is there is no elevator to success, you have to take the stairs.
Seize the day; don’t waste time in life, it is far too short. Whatever you are doing, give it your 100% focus.
Speak life. Words can be scars that last a lifetime. Scripture tells us our talk has the power of life or death. Each word you say has a ripple effect so speak life into one another, encourage each other. My life was changed tremendously by one person who told me I mattered.
Finally, place your trust in Jesus.”
Then after Father Iryney said grace, everyone was treated to a wonderful supper by Holy Trinity Catering.
After this, Trinity Korop and Eboni Bast issued the Tribute to Parents where they mentioned that they were grateful to all the amazing parents who showed them nothing but love and direction in life. “We thank you for being the light that shines in our darkness.”
Carmen Heisler and Barb Jardine gave the Response from Parents. “We’re proud parents who have been involved with this extraordinary class since preschool.”
The Tribute to Teachers was presented by Rylee Heisler and Keely Cannan. “Your impact extends far beyond the classroom as our class will be forever grateful for the profound influence you left in our lives.”
Ms. Stuart and Mr. Manderson gave the Response from Teachers where they congratulated the grads and retold humourous anecdotes from the grad’s school days.
Valedictorian Brady Douglas-Krill read his speech.
Eboni Bast and Selby Labuschagne then did the Handling Down of School Colours to Sage Lappa and Cameron Dixson.
