Salutatorian Erin Corrigan took a photo of the class of 2011 from her spot on the dais. "In this camera is now a memory of the day we officially grew up," she said.
HOLYOKE - Mayor Elaine Pluta told Holyoke High School graduates that "the small dreams are over" and now "the sky's the limit" at the school's 146th commencement Sunday.
"The time flies, so please enjoy your life and make good choices," said Pluta. "Only you are now responsible for your own future and the choices you will make."
Pluta delivered the congratulatory address on the 50th anniversary of her own graduation from Holyoke High in 1961.
Out of 157 students in the class of 2011, 42 graduated with honors and 17 with high honors.
Salutatorian Erin Corrigan spoke to her peers about the memories they shared and created her own: she took a photo of the class from her spot on the dais.
"In this camera is now a memory of the day we officially grew up," she said.
Valedictorian and class treasurer Noah Whitcomb said the school and the city have a less-than-ideal reputation, but he and his classmates will reach out to the "skeptics" and show them what they're made of.
"We must share our passion with them so they will develop a greater understanding of who we truly are," he said. "We are impassioned about our school and city and we always will be."
"People who have passion, and nurture and share it, will be happy and successful in life," he said.
Principal Diane L. Bauer told the graduates to keep aiming higher than their achievements have brought them thus far.
"I want you to set powerful, positive, challenging goals. These goals, backed by perseverance, will make your dreams come true," said Bauer. "Do not follow the path in front of you. Instead, blaze your own trail."