The Register Citizen (Torrington, CT)
Glenholme School graduates 18, and celebrates 50 years
WASHINGTON — The Glenholme School, a special needs boarding and day school, celebrated its 14th commencement in Washington on June 20. It was an important celebration for the Class of 2018 and for Glenholme, as the occasion is distinguished by the school’s 50th anniversary, according to a news release from the school.
Over 200 parents, family members, friends, faculty and fellow schoolmates gathered to salute the 18 members of the graduating class.
Glenholme Executive Director Maryann Campbell provided a charming welcome address. She highlighted the history of the school, beginning with the gift of the Glenholme Farm to the Devereux Foundation in the mid-1960s and the school’s accomplishments on campus, in the community and around the world over the last 50 years. She followed with memorable tributes to the soon-to-begraduates as their images scrolled across the backdrop. Campbell echoed praise to the graduates and all who supported them throughout their incredible journey.
Student Council President Michael said, “Today, we are recognized for all of our hard work and achievements. But more importantly, we leave Glenholme as positively changed people.”
After the speeches, awards and scholarships were bestowed upon six deserving seniors. The honors included the Susan Clark Memorial Scholarship and the Harry Van Sinderen Award for exceptional character values. Campbell returned to the podium to award the Campbell Spirit Community Awards, recognizing two individuals for their participation in every after-school program available that Glenholme has to offer its students.
Following the honors, each member of the Class of 2018 received his or her diploma and time in the spotlight.
Additional musical pieces were woven into the event, including “Light of Glenholme,” the school song, and the graduates’ touching rendition of “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” summoned a few tears from the audience.
Glenholme Executive Administrator Noah Noyes shared some inspiring thoughts in the closing remarks. He said, “Remember the power of positivity.” With a demonstration of “The Glass Half Full,” he impressed upon all, “Perhaps you do not concern yourself with whether the glass is half full or half empty. Rather, challenge yourself to define what fills your glass.”
With that, the Class of 2018 received a standing ovation, proceeded outdoors, joined together in the celebratory cap toss, and enjoyed farewell festivities with lots of smiles, laughs, hugs, and warm partings.
Students in the class are matriculating to competitive universities, colleges and career opportunities across the nation, including Adelphi University, Mercyhurst University, Mitchell College, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Pace University and Schreiner University.