Central graduates steeped in pride
Brimming with newfound self-esteem at receiving their diplomas the Central Union High School class of 2016 was delighted to pass this milestone but took their tentative first steps to the future with measured pace.
It was an awesome feeling to see classmates in blue gowns, noted Nicholas Gonzales, one of two speakers to address his cohorts at graduation ceremonies. He characterized his academic years as a “beautiful struggle” that transformed him as a person. Nicholas’ time as president of Associated Student Body and taught him how to delegate authority, which he aims to transpose into a managerial position in a high-tech firm.
“High school brought me out of my shell and taught me to be very confident and the teachers here have given me a future I know I can depend on,” said Gonzales.
One of those mentors is Sara McFadden, ASB director, who remarked it was definitely a night filled with emotion but at the same time she experienced a sense of joy seeing students begin to see the world with fresh eyes. “It’s a pleasure and honor to watch the class of 2016 become young adults since they had to tackle some tough times themselves,” said McFadden.
Besieged with requests for photos, English teacher Marilyn Burt confided she will miss the class of 2016 immensely as they are caring, compassionate and funny. “Now that they’re going, I tell them to be kind, be grateful and behave,” stressed Burt.
Yet it has not always been triumphs as graduate Paola Navarro noted; it is hard to revolve life around school since a lot of hard work had to be summoned forth. “It’s been a stressful four years but it’s ending on a high note,” said Navarro.
For Rafael Flores, the first student speaker of the evening, it was a relief yet also a bit of a dread as he realizes he must leave his best friends. He said he was excited to attend UC Berkeley, majoring in bio-chemistry, and looking forward to the weather. He also had enduring advice for classmates.
“College may not be for everybody, but you should follow your passions,” said Rafael. “Do a lot of enriching activities and be on the lookout for opportunities whether it’s a job or even volunteering.”
It was also a landmark occasion for Principal Craig Lyon, who completed his first year at the helm of CUHS. He called the class of 2016 a great group of kids who put in a lot of hard work and dedication to get to this point.
“This hard work is just the next step to utilize opportunities so they can aspire to careers in the future,” said Lyon. “The big key is their explorations are not about the endpoint, but all the experiences they will have along the journey.”