HHS Graduates Class of Artists, Scholars, Future Soldiers

Even though it had to be moved inside due to Thursday's unsettled weather, Hastings High School's graduation ceremony showcased the talents of its impressive senior class.

"We have been nothing but impressed with and proud of you," said Principal Louis Adipietro, addressing the graduates. "You set high standards that future classes will look to surpass; but it will not be easy."

Next, class president Kaela Sanborn-Hum noted the significance of Osama Bin Laden's capture and killing during her senior year of high school. "We've grown up with this war," she said. 

The 2011 commencement speaker Rear Admiral Ronald J. Jesberg is a Hastings High School alumnus and retired naval officer. Jesberg spoke about success and failure—and how no one who takes risks and perseveres can ever truly fail.

On a lighter note, class Salutatorian Maya Neira  drew on the metaphor of her high school experience being defined by the different delis and sandwich shops in the Rivertowns. "Remember that each day brings an array of new choices," she said.

And Valedictorian Salinario spoke about her class' undeniable comfort in Hastings.  "I'm confident that no matter where we go, we'll find a new place to be comfortable once again," she said. "Our [class'] openness will be our legacy."

Spotlighting the graduates' staggering talent, musicians Eliza Blum (violin), Jacob Nordlinger (cello), and Nicholas Wetherell (cello) played "Aria" from the Goldberg Variations—after which Principal Adipietro could say only "Wow."

"I can see that this class really cares about one another—enjoys each other's company," said Interim Superintendent Timothy Connors before the diplomas were disbursed. 

After acknowledging the students who were recognized during Wednesday night's annual awards ceremony, School Board President Eileen Baecher acknowledged the students for whom high school had been more difficult. 

"You now have the opportunity to start again," Baecher said. 

See the senior class awards in the media section above.