Stoughton Class of 2017 Told To Find What Ignites Their Passion

STOUGHTON, MA — For the 148th time, Stoughton High School said goodbye to their seniors and for the last time, they did it on Anthony L. Sarno Field.

Thursday night, 226 members of the Class of 2017 received their diplomas and said farewell to Stoughton High School. Due to the construction of the new high school, they will be the last class to have graduation on the field.

“As you have navigated your way through high school, I have watched you grow and learn. You have each found your way. Some in more traditional ways than others, but you have persevered and reached this day,” Stoughton High School Principal Juliette Miller said.

Miller called on the graduates to believe in themselves and to never stop learning, do what they love, love what they do, be kind and show kindness to others.

“Now is the time we encourage you to step boldly into the future and we eagerly wait to hear about your bold forward steps,” Miller said.

Class President Shannon Flaherty said the legacy of the class will be one of inclusion and Stoughton pride.

“In the future, we as a class must continue this legacy and stress the importance of working together to achieve one’s goals,” she said. “Although we may all be separated in the future, never forget where we came from.”

On the final day of class, Valedictorian Rebecca McSweeney had the opportunity to walk the halls of South Elementary School in her cap and gown, as many others did. Following the trip, she remembered in fifth grade when she was forced to take two sciences classes she did not choose. Despite her unhappiness with the situation, she said she gave it her best shot and learned that she actually liked science and wanted to pursue a career in the field. The lesson here is to make the best of all situations.

“After we leave Stoughton High School, we will face a variety challenges. We may not get along with a roommate or we may have to take a job we don’t like to pay the bills. The value of the experience all depends on our attitude, let's try to have the right one for whatever challenges we face,” she said.

While writing her speech, Student Council President Jordan Lazarian recalled the famous Winnie the Pooh quote, “How lucky am I to have someone who makes saying goodbye so hard?” The quote more or less described her feelings towards her classmates and the school.

“Challenge yourself to figure out who you are and what gives you that exciting feeling to get up and start your day Whatever it may be, love what you do. I challenge you to find what ignites your passion. If we all love what we do every day, we are more likely to succeed,” Lazarian said.

The Class of 2017 was accepted to 104 college and universities with 193 members planning to pursue further education. Seven members will join the armed services.

Image via Stoughton Public Schools