Gallery: Extraordinary Students Focus Of WHS 2011 Graduation

The 378 members of Woonsocket High School Class of 2011 had plenty to celebrate Friday night, and at a graduation ceremony held in the High School gymnasium, the focus was on the work of extraordinary student athletes, musicians, and scholars in the senior class.

In addition to two consecutive Division II state football championships, members of the Class of 2011 led teams to victory over the past few years in girls' soccer, girls' basketball, hockey, boys' basketball, girls' indoor track, girls' softball, and girls' field hockey.

The class was also teeming with young thespians and musical talent involved in productions including Grease and Godspell, and countless concerts and benefits. One such benefit this year, organized, in part, by seniors Jamel Williams, and Adam Brunetti earned more than $10,000 to be used for  autism education training for teachers.

Senior Daniel McNulty was the first Rhode Islander to walk the stage after of high school education via an innovative online program. Despite severe health problems hindering his ability to regularly attend school, McNulty is a member of the Rhode Island Honor Society, who graduated Friday near the top of his class.

"You are all ready for greatness," Woonsocket Mayor Leo Fontaine told the class. "The class of 2011 is one that exemplifies leadership and hard work."

Salutatorian Jennifer Pierel listened with tears in her eyes as Fontaine discussed her extraordinary talent as a singer and scholar. Fontaine presented Pierel, along with Valedictorian Julie Ann Briere with plaques declaring the the date in their honor.  Briere achieved a GPA of  97.357 and will be attending Providence College next years, taking classes in biology and pre-med.

The class faced more stringent graduation requirements than past graduates, completing portfolios and final projects to meet new Board of Regents requirements.

"You all accepted the challenges, and today you are realizing the rewards," Principal Dr. Lynne Bedard told the students, surrounded by overflowing crowds of admirers in the packed gymnasium. Other watched the ceremonies on a large screen in the high school's auditorium. 

School Committee Chairman Marc Dubois received resounding applause and chants of "Let's Go Novans" from the group with his positive message: Be proud to be Villa Novans.

"Remember, Class of 2011, your diploma counts."