CHS Class of 2013 Closes One Chapter, Opens Countless More

After 13 years of schooling, countless quizzes, tests, required reading assignments, portfolios and four years of Capstone preparation, the Coventry High School Class of 2013 officially ended their time as Coventry students.

359 students donned their red and white cap and gowns and received their diplomas Saturday afternoon at the University of Rhode Island's Ryan Center.

The graduates, along with family and friends, were addressed by Principal Michael Hobin, who likened the Class of 2013's journey to the long but rewarding process of writing a book.

"Fifty years from now what will the title of your autobiography be?" asked Hobin. "Will your story be a drama, a comedy, a suspenseful thriller?  What will the chapter titles reflect? What illustrations will highlight the writing? What characters and friends will you find in the index?"

"The greatest part about your autobiography, is that most is yet to be written," he continued. "There are many decades left to create a memorable title. You have years to rewrite chapters and create new material. The pictures in your autobiography are not yet taken. Tonight all of you will begin to write many new chapters. The chapters are yours to fill with divergent experiences and tales of success."

While addressing her peers, Valedictorian Jennifer Haley encouraged them to strive for greatness, adventure and the chance to make a difference. She also thanked the family, friends and teachers who motivated her and helped her succeed during her time at CHS.

"We have the be the change that we want to see in the world, no matter life takes us," she said.

Salutatorian Ashley Ginda delivered an inspiring speech during which she reminded her fellow graduates to stay true to themselves and never stop working for what they want in life.

"As we graduate today as the class of 2013, a unity of red and white, may we always remember where we came from, appreciate where we are, and strive to keep moving forward," said Ashley. "May we pursue our dreams, and be the sports gurus, actors, intellectuals, comedians, introverts, musicians, artists that we are, and define ourselves to the world, never letting society get in the way of who we are."

Town Council President Gary Cote urged the class to put all of their effort into everything they work to accomplish, and to never let anyone judge them superficially.

"No matter what you do in your life, make sure you do it 100 percent," he said. "And don't ever let anyone judge you by the way they see you on the outside. Only let them judge you by who you are in your heart."

A combination of heartfelt, motivational and thought-provoking sentiments were also shared with the graduates by School Committee Chairperson Kathy Patenaude, Superintendent Michael Almeida, "Face of the Class of 2013" Scott Francis, and Class President Alaa' Eid.

In addition, attendees were entertained by the CHS Jazz Band, led by Director Bill Smith, who performed the lively arrangement titled, "The Chicken", as well as an arrangement of the Phillip Phillips tune, "Home", performed by Director Lisa Masse's Mixed Choir.

One by one, members of the CHS Class of 2013 then climbed the steps of the Ryan Center stage as high schoolers, received their long-awaited diplomas, and stepped down as graduates. The milestone afternoon culminated as the group of new alumni completed their final task as a class, the Turning of the Tassels, ushering themselves into a new and promising point in their lives.

Congratulations Class of 2013! Best of luck in the future!