CLASS OF ‘18 SAY SLÁN TO DAVIS
THE class of 2018 has bid a fond farewell to Mallow’s Davis College at their recent graduation ceremony held in the school.
A large crowd of more than 400 pupils, parents, relatives and staff members attended the gathering, which marked the final chapter in the pupils’ six-year involvement with the school.
Year head, Ms Suzanne Kelly, who has guided and mentored the group since their first year, co-ordinated proceedings, acknowledged the contribution the pupils had made during their time at the school and wished them well in their forthcoming exams.
Appropriately, the students played a key role in the ceremony, with many participating in the school choir, while Diarmuid O’Mahony, Osata Mickey, Aisling O’Keeffe and Brid Brennan spoke on behalf of the Leaving Certificate class.
They acknowledged the huge contribution made by parents and staff to their education and reminisced about their time in Davis College.
As is natural on such occasions, there was a great sense of anticipation of what lies ahead for everyone as students are on the cusp of a new stage in their lives.
There was also a very real sense of sadness evident in their speeches as a very enjoyable chapter of their lives came to an end.
Aisling O’Keeffe summarised the emotions, quoting philosopher Lao Tzu who said ‘new beginnings often disguise painful endings’.
Principal Stephen Gilbert, while acknowledging the sense of sadness that was present, pointed out that students had to move on to continue their development and to fulfil their potential as human beings.
He wished them every happiness in their lives and encouraged them to make sure they take the time to enjoy their accomplishments.
The choir then rounded off the evening with an emotional rendition of ‘ These Days’.