A pivotal moment
École Évangéline graduates cross finish line
A bittersweet feeling marked the occasion for many École Évangéline graduates.
Julia Singer, the class valedictorian, expressed anxious anticipation as she waited to share her speech in front of a large enthusiastic audience made up of family and friends on Sunday evening, at École Évangéline.
“It felt really special to look back on what we’ve done, who to thank, and reflect on what has happened over the years,” acknowledged Singer. “It was really an honour to be able to write and present this speech.” Singer, who was awarded the Governor General’s Academic Medal for excellence during the ceremony, encouraged her fellow classmates to, “Not let anyone bring them down,” as they prepared for a diverse collection of professional callings. She noted, “They’ve gone through so much already. Some people had a hard time at school and others loved it, but now it’s
time for a fresh start and to follow your heart.”
Singer is leaving P.E.I. to study Education at the Université de Moncton in N.B., while staying with her grandmother for the first year.
“I’m a little nervous of what
the future holds, but I know once I get comfortable at university I will be alright.” She added, “I’m going to miss the size and sense of community, and how friendly people are around P.E.I.”
Decked out in blue and gold gowns, 30 graduates exhibited an aura of greatness and were encouraged by staff to ‘pursue their dreams and their future’ at the 56th École Évangéline ceremony.
Owen Gallant, 17, says he has a mix of emotions over the special occasion.
“I’ve been preparing for this moment all my life and I have a very outgoing personality, so I have been excited to go off on my own, but there is still that fear of the unknown,” he smiled.
Gallant will attend the University of Ottawa in September and study business. His future goal is to open his own company.
Paulette LeBlanc, the principle, offered a dose of sage advice for the graduates: “Do your best, be honest, try to do good for others, and be proud of your French heritage.”
She concluded with a tear in her eye,
“My daughter is also graduating, so it’s my last one at home and I’ve known this group of kids since they were really young.”