“BMR High School Graduates 126 Amid Pomp and Gratitude”

BLACKSTONE….Blackstone-Millville Regional High School graduated 126 members of the Class of 2007 in commencement exercises that echoed with repeated themes of gratitude by student and faculty speakers amid traditional graduation pomp. “These graduates are great. Our BMR school culture is unique. This school is special” said a beaming Principal Richard A. Porter at the conclusion of the graduation. “I have been in education now for many years and I cannot begin to tell you how proud I am of our speakers at today’s graduation. Everyone remembered to thank those responsible for their accomplishments and that speaks volumes about the type of young people we have helped prepare to take on new roles as responsible adults. It also is a great reflection on the faculty members who are retiring” Porter added.

BMR’s 37th annual commencement began with musical selections performed by the school’s award-winning “Chargers” band under the direction of music director Ronald Bibeault. Following greetings by class president Mary C. Ambacher, and opening ceremonies, Principal Porter welcomed the faculty; graduates, their families and friends. Quoting Robert F. Kennedy, Porter extolled the virtue of confidence “you are our freshly minted optimism and bright hope for the future” Porter said. According to Porter, the class profile includes 83% continuing their education by attending trade or technical schools, two or four year colleges or universities. 16% are entering the workforce and 1 graduate is joining the military.

“Every person can impact our lives as a teacher” said valedictorian Emma K. Hardy. In recognizing the sacrifices made by parents, Hardy said “they have taught us how to become happy and successful individuals and how to stay true to the values they have instilled.” Continuing to thank teachers who guided her and her classmates to success, Hardy said “”Our teachers have taught us through their actions that with dedication and caring, one can truly make a difference in the lives of others.” “Everyone has something unique to offer, and since we are all different everyone can teach you a little something special. Realize that you are teaching the world something about yourself in the way you act and the way you treat others” Hardy said.

Ambacher, who doubled as class salutatorian noted “take the road you truly desire and will not forget.” She went on to quote Ralph Waldo Emerson and taking the path including “…where there is no path and leave a trail” She counseled her classmates to “make your own paths, be leaders allow others to follow in your footsteps” Ambacher said. She ended wistfully by quoting Sir Winston Churchill’s words: “now this not the end, it is not even the beginning of the end, but perhaps the end of the beginning.”

Following a musical interlude and the singing of the class song Don’t Stop Believin by the band Journey, precedent was broken with 5 not one keynote speakers in this case faculty members Pauline Allaire-Adams, Michael Drake, Ann Phipps, Pauline Winn and George Zisiades. Combined, the group of veteran educators totaled 165 years of service to BMR. Their sentiments were summed up by Zisiades’ comment “…thank you, the families of Blackstone and Millville for giving me the chance to start my career.” Said Pauline Winn, foreign language department chair “you never know when some kernel of knowledge will bloom into true understanding.”

Class vice president Jeffery Bielat who closed the program with farewell remarks tinged with humor and shared memories of faculty members that were much appreciated by the crowd turned serious when thanking parents and teachers. “They teach you because they care about you and they make sure that you learn about and understand your world so that when you are out there on your own, without a hall pass, that you don’t lose your way” Bielat said. (BMRHS Photograph/R.M.Lafayette)

"Graduation Day" BMRHS Principal Richard A. Porter reviews preparations for BMR's 37th annual commencement, June 8, 2007.

"Jeweled Graduate" BMRHS graduate displays her jeweled mortarboard as a reflection of her personality prior to commencement exercises.

"Music Man" BMR music director Ronald Bibeault conducts the award-winning "Chargers" band at the 2007 graduation.

"165 Years of Service" Co-keynote speakers and retiring faculty members (left to right) George Zisiades, Michael Drake, Pauline Winn, Pauline Allaire-Adams, and Ann Marie Phipps.

"School District Leadership" Attending the 37th annual commencement at BMR High School held on June 8, 2007 were (left to right) Toni Harvey, chairperson, BMR School District; Dr. Kathleen A. Montagano, assistant superintendent; Mrs. Isabel Campbell; and, Superintendent of Schools Everett B. Campbell.

"Class Leaders" Officers of the BMR Class of 2007.