Springfield High School of Commerce graduates told to 'go for amazing' during commencement exercises

Student speakers gave credit to their parents, teachers and staff for helping them succeed.

File photo by Michael Beswick / The RepublicanKamania Gray, left, and Tyease Randolph get ready for their High School of Commerce graduation Tuesday night at Symphony Hall in Springfield.

SPRINGFIELD – Go for “amazing,” and never give up.

That was among the advice given to the High School of Commerce Class of 2011 from their classmates and other speakers during a graduation ceremony on Tuesday night at Symphony Hall.

Class President Gabriella Felix spoke of the hard work by students and challenges faced over the past four years that may have seemed impossible to overcome.

“It was all worth it,” Felix said, praising parents, teachers and other staff, and true friends for helping to make it possible.

“Never stop dreaming, never stop succeeding,” Felix said. “Never settle for good. Go for amazing. Go for outstanding.”

Linnette Figueroa, class valedictorian, said hard work and dedication was essential to achieving graduation. Graduation day is also a day of celebration for the parents, teachers, and friends.

“I can’t thank my family enough,” Figueroa said. “They pushed me to be the best I can be.”

Mayor Domenic J. Sarno, who graduated from Commerce in 1981, said that graduation is “only the beginning” of the students’ lives.

“I ask each and every one of you to wear that Commerce pride on your heart and sleeve,” Sarno said. “Be proud of the High School of Commerce and the city.”

Some people would say that one’s zip code will dictate their future success, Sarno said.

“You dictate your future,” Sarno said.

School Committee member Barbara Gresham told students to “stay focused, keep the faith, believe in yourself and never give up.”

Co-Salutatorians Shannon P. Johnson and Nghia Nguyen also spoke about the memories of Commerce and the importance of family and teachers. Nguyen urged his classmates to put all their efforts into accomplishing their goals.”

Superintendent of Schools Alan J. Ingram said he salutes the students and their families. Excellence is an attitude to be the best one can be, he said.