Over the past few weeks in school gymnasiums, boardrooms, cafeterias, libraries and performing arts centers throughout our communities, families and friends have gathered to acknowledge the accomplishments of the class of 2005.
Along with the well-deserved honors for those who excelled in academics or athletics, a growing number of awards and scholarships are finding their way into the educational piggybanks of a wider variety students as well. Vocational programs such as auto technology, culinary arts, computer sciences, agriculture and cosmetology have provided students with a solid grounding in a trade that will give them a distinct advantage in our competitive job market.
Add significant community service to the list of essential criteria for scholarships and you have a sense of the talent and commitment demonstrated by this worthy group of grads.
One thing is certain: These scholarships represent a solid investment in the future. Through their generous scholarship programs, dozens of service organizations, businesses, churches and local groups have stepped up to demonstrate their ongoing commitment to our young people. For families struggling to pay the rising cost of tuition, these scholarships are genuinely appreciated, and in some cases, truly life-changing.
While each graduate will travel the same pathway from their seat to the podium to receive their diploma, every educational journey has been a unique experience. Each chair in the sea of caps and gowns contains a student who arrived at this transitional moment in their own way – a student who will turn their tassel, toss their cap and leave from the building headed in a brand new direction.
We wish them the very best.
A note to the class of 2005: As you proceed through commencement, please take a second to look around you at those who are applauding your accomplishments. Your parents, siblings, guardians, teachers, principals and counselors are all assembled to celebrate this moment with you. By taking the time to extend your hand to thank them for their role in your success, you’ll be adding significant meaning to this important milestone.
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