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SSHS bids farewell to 151 Manta Rays
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Posted on Jun 04 2006
Some 151 students full of Manta Ray spirit gathered at the Saipan Southern High School grounds Wednesday afternoon during their commencement ceremony with Jonathan Aguon being named as this year’s valedictorian.
Graduating with the second highest honors was Ferleen Esmundo who took home the salutatorian award.
In his remarks, Aguon commended his peers for their dedication to achieving their goals.
“We are beginning a new chapter in our lives. It is our choice on how to write our next chapter. Take advantage of the opportunities before you for you can choose your next path to follow,” he said.
Despite the challenges awaiting them, Aguon urged his peers to be prepared. “It’s not who you are that counts, it’s what you do that defines you. Actions do speak louder than words.”
“Therefore we should all remember that with great power comes great responsibility,” he added.
Aside from Aguon and Esmundo, graduating with high honors included Marilou Gariquez, Don Hwi Shim, Connie Dunn, Kayelani Flores, Ray Duenas, Lourdes Mack, Rosalyn Sanchez, and Travis Calvo.
Prior to receiving their diplomas, Esmundo shed tears during her salutatory remarks.
“Fellow graduates we finally made it. After being the first class to attend all four years of Southern, all our hard work has paid off.”
In her remarks, Esmundo told her peers that anything is possible if they put their heart into it.
“Fellow graduates, don’t be afraid to discover who you really are. Know yourself and realize your full potential. Only then can you achieve your goals and dreams without the fear of failure,” she said.
Graduates also received the Governor’s Award, Mayor’s Award, Principal’s Award, Commissioner’s Award, and the Board of Education Award, among others.
On hand to honor and recognize the graduates were Lt. Gov. Timothy Villagomez, Saipan Mayor Juan B. Tudela, Board of Education Chairman Roman Benavente, and Commissioner of Education Dr. Rita Inos. (Cassie Dlg Fejeran)
