GORHAM – As they left high school days behind, Gorham High School graduates received encouragement and some sound advice before receiving diplomas at commencement exercises on Sunday.
Principal Christopher Record urged members of the graduating class of 2014 to take advantage of their opportunities, give back to their communities and make good choices.
The graduates wore school colors – the men maroon gowns and women white.
“You look tremendous today,” Record told the class in opening remarks.
Gorham school officials handed 200 diplomas to seniors in the ceremony that packed Merrill Auditorium in Portland. According to the school’s guidance department, about 78 percent of the class would continue their education.
Francesco Pappalardo, class president, reflected on the class’s days in school.
“After this, we will all go down our own path,” Pappalardo said. “Take chances and follow your dream.”
To the class of 2014, Pappalardo said, “We made it.”
Laura Turner delivered the salutatory address.
“After today, we enter the real world,” Turner said. “Tonight is the end of this stage of our lives.”
Jason Meuse, class valedictorian, spoke of various masks that people wear. Meuse said some wear masks to hide vulnerability. “We’re defined by the masks we wear,” he said.
He urged classmates to see past everyone’s mask.
“Take the time to be kind,” Meuse said.
Two other students displayed their oratory skills. Charlotte Feinberg, the state’s Poetry Out Loud champion, recited a poem, and Hannah LeClair gave a short speech on the subject of perseverance. The Gorham High School Chamber Singers also performed.
Faculty member James Welsch was the keynote speaker. Referring to graduation exercises, he said the day belonged to the class of 2014, which he called “a landmark event and closing the first chapter of your life.”
In order to succeed, Welsch told the seniors they would have to battle many foes.
Welsch told a story of a Civil War general who, in battle, chose not to take the advice to take cover, and was killed.
“Take time to listen to those around you,” Welsch said.
Class adviser Stacey Anderson presented the class to the audience after tassels were turned.
“I love this class,” Anderson said. “I’m going to miss you guys so much.”
Before the class left the stage, Record had final parting remarks. He urged graduates to look people in the eye and shake their hand.
“I’m very proud of every one of you,” Record said. “Please keep each other safe.”
Following Gorham High School graduation exercises on Sunday, Samantha Robinson displays her cap with a message. The daughter of Town Councilor Matthew and Melissa Robinson is continuing her education at Saint Joseph’s College. 
At Gorham commencement exercises, Gabrielle Libby hugs her father, Dennis Libby, chairman of the Gorham School Committee.
Send questions/comments to the editors.
