Awards were many at Class of 2009 graduation

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The presentation of awards took up most of the time during the graduation exercises for eighth graders in St. Paul’s Class of 2009 Wednesday evening in the church.

But there was also the pomp and circumstance as music director Tim Longfellow played for the processional while graduates marched up the center aisle two by two. There was also the traditional rose ceremony as graduates distributed roses and hugs to teachers, parents and grandparentw.

Topping the awards were 11 high school scholarships.

Receiving scholarships from Hoban High were Noelle Colant, Erin Liggett, Jamie Dean, Angelina Miller, Adam Gray, Michael Riegger and Alexandra Krim. Noelle Colant also won a scholarship to Our Lady of Elms which she will attend. Michael Riegger also got one from St. Vincent/St. Mary but will attend Hoban. Receiving St. Vincent/St. Mary scholarships were Madison Buzek and Noelle Colant.

These special awards also were given:

CYO Outstanding Scholar Athlete: Natalie Bender and Adam Gray.

Christian Leadership: Noelle Colant and Erin :Liggett

Citizenship: Alyse Bachmann and Jamie Dean

Presidentail Education: Noelle Colant, Lexi Krim and Michael Riegger

Manhood and Womanhood: Michael Riegger and Natalie Bender

Academic Achievement Awards for performance during all four quarters went to
Alyse Bachman, Natalie Bender, Madison Buzek, Noelle Colant, Kathleen Coughlin, Jamie Dean, Maggi Fatica, Brianna Friedl, Adam Gray, Matthew Kannel, Gabrielle Kapper, Ale\xandra Krim, Erin Liggett, Angelina Miller, Abigahil Pilgram and Michael Riegger.

Safety Patrol awards went to Aaron Abernathy, Alyse Bachman, Noelle Colant. Zack Dubbin, Trevor Ellis, Adam Gray, Matt Kennel, Erin :Liggett and Angie Miller.

Diplomas were presented by the Rev. Fr. Ralph W. Thomas. Awards were presented by principal Rosemary Capotosto, eighth grade teacher Sarah Mizak, teacher Anne Wright and school secretary Mary Ann DeKemper.

The welcome address was given by Natalie Bender. Jamie Dean and Aaron Abernathy gave a special reflection.

Speeches were given by Michael Riegger, the class president, and Erin Liggett, Student Council president. [Their titles were switched in the program.]

The graduation was the last at St. Paul for Mrs. Capotosto, who is leaving, and for third grade teacher Jeanette Michel who is retiring.

In her remarks, the council president said:

“We are closing one chapter of our lives and writing a new one. Whatever happens and whatever the future brings, we will forever have the bonds we have made here at St. Paul.”

We hope to add a link here a bit later for those who would like to read the two speeches.

Click on the headline to see photos of the evening.

Read Erin Liggett's speech.

Read Michael Riegger's speech.