Class of 2009 graduates

Under cloud cover and the threat of impending rain, The Glenholme School Class of 2009 received their diplomas and inspirational words of their classmates, a keynote speaker and Glenholme executives. The June 24 courtyard ceremony, held under an elegant tent, was attended by nearly 300 staff, students, family members and friends. The consistent theme was of acknowledgement and celebration of the graduates for their achievements and academic aptitude.

Executive Director, Maryann Campbell, delivered the opening remarks and relayed to the graduates, "We are here to celebrate and honor your accomplishments. Take with you those moments of people and friends that have shaped your lives." Ms. Campbell thanked the parents for their commitment to the school program and the effort they made during their child's school years here.

Torrington Mayor Ryan J. Bingham spoke eloquently of leadership, commitment and diligence when quoting Senator John McCain from his book Character is Destiny, "A wiser man that I once explained to live a good life all you have to do is become less selfish on the way out than coming in." He elaborated: "This takes many special habits of the heart and mind to achieve. It is the hardest work of anyone’s life, but it will make you the happiest. It takes strength, not just physical strength but the moral strength to sacrifice for an ideal. It takes understanding and wisdom and a mind that questions beliefs the heart suspects are false. And it takes love. Love for something greater than yourself; love that is much more than a desire or affection. It is a love that does not yield to disappointment or suffering but recognizes the good in this world. And in that purpose, finds true happiness.”

Finally, Mayor Bingham relayed four challenges to the graduates as they embark on their future, “Volunteer, give back and be a good citizen; live your life as an open book, consider all the opportunities when they are before you; never give up, and lastly, enjoy your life.”

The 2009 Student Council President and graduate Creighton H relayed to those in attendance how Glenholme helped change his life for the better and he feels confident leaving, “a good leader, student and friend.”

Michelle P emphasized to everyone the importance of community service with words of caring and what it meant to her over her four years at Glenholme, "Give; and give back to the school as much as it has given [you]."

Glenholme’s 2009 graduation ceremony included three commencement awards; two were bestowed upon the graduating seniors and the third upon a stand out junior. The Daughters of the American Revolution Citizenship Award was awarded to Michelle P. This award is given each year to one graduating senior who has demonstrated the qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism in their school as well as with in the community. Student Council President, Creighton H. was honored with The Student Council Scholarship Award, which recognized the one student who demonstrates exceptional leadership skills. Finally, the 2009 Excellence Award for Academic Achievement was awarded to Tom H., a Glenholme junior who achieved his goals, upheld the school’s values and became an exceptional leader.

In closing, Dr. Patrick Queenan reflected, "Look around and take this in. This place is filled with pride and admiration for your accomplishments."