Allison J. O'Shea was the class president and valedictorian and Meghan S. Accorsi was the salutatorian.
CHICOPEE –; On her graduation day Allison J. O’Shea admitted she doesn’t like change, but said she will try to embrace it and encouraged the Chicopee High School Class of 2011 to do the same.
O’Shea, the class president and valedictorian, was one of the speakers at the school’s graduation of 231 students Thursday. Storms moved the celebration indoors to the Edward J. Bellamy School.
“I used to believe graduation would be the happiest day in my life until I realized what I’m leaving,” said O’Shea, who will be attending Boston College in the fall.
She talked about her memories of events such as Pride Week and great friends. She thanked her teachers, family and most of all, her mother.
“Ever since I was little I hated change, but that isn’t a surprise for a girl whose father died when she was 7 years old,” she said. “Embrace the change we are destined to face.”
Using a theme of yesterday and tomorrow, Salutatorian Meghan S. Accorsi talked about the growth students have already experienced.
She talked about how students were completely dependent on their parents, then slowly gained independence and soon will be on their own.
“Most of us .¤.¤. are not completely clear on where our lives are going tomorrow,” said Accorsi, who will attend the University of Florida.
Most do have some plans, with 87 percent headed to college, 10 percent to work and 3 percent to military service, Principal Roland R. Joyal Jr. said.
He talked about achievements of the class. A total of 49 students kept a grade point average of 90 percent or better for all four years of high school and 108 made the honor roll at least once. Students will be attending a variety of colleges including George Washington University, Harvard University, Elms College and Moorehouse College, he said.