Bethel's Class of 2011 Encouraged to Smile, Be Thankful at Graduation

Happiness, achievement and family were all themes in Bethel's goodbye to 244 seniors Tuesday night at the O'Neill Center.

After 13 years of service, it was also the last graduation ceremony for Superintendent Dr. Gary Chesley who recently announced his . He acknowledged this class' leadership, more than 12,000 hours of community service and success in earning $3,119,544 in scholarship money - $500,000 more than the previous class.

"Our goal more than a decade ago was to get more money in the hands of more students, colleges and universities...this is a remarkable achievement," Chesley said.   

, this year's valedictorian, also spoke of her class' other unique traits, including how the small community of students and teachers seemed to create "magic."

"We are all very distinct and diverse in our beliefs, but when you put us together, something amazing happens," she said. 

Gallagher also thanked all of Bethel's teachers, her family and friends for supporting her both inside and outside the classroom.

"We have been given information and knowledge that we now have to apply to life," she said. "My advice to all of you would be to smile; it always brings me joy to see my classmates smile and laugh...I hope you take the path that makes you the happiest, because in the end, that's all that matters."

BHS Principal Patricia Cosentino echoed Gallagher's advice and told seniors to find something in life that makes them wake up everyday loving what they do, just like she does. 

"Be happy in your life, enthusiasm is contagious; finding your passion will make your life fun," Cosentino said. 

Graduates and other attendees also heard from Board of Education Chairman Larry Craybas, a comical speech by Class President Andrew Baumgartner and Bethel's First Selectman Matthew Knickerbocker, who encouraged to students to become active, aware citizens.

This year's graduation speaker was Social Studies teacher Robert Owen who spoke of his many life experiences after becoming a post graduate. He told the Class of 2011 to soak up their life experiences as they become a part of who they are.

"Take the time to figure out who you are, follow your dreams; know what you like and know what you dislike," Owen said. "Think of the choices you made...through mine I met interesting characters, made awesome friends and I can tell you my story."

He also advised the graduates to travel the world and to always put the rest of the world into perspective.

"Don't say 'this is the worst day of my life!' The Xbox will work again, you will get phone service and your hot water will be turned back on. Your family, friends and certainly your health matter most," Owen said, concluding his speech. "...You were an awesome class. Stay focused."