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Raganot and Ermitanio are top graduates of MHS
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Posted on Jun 04 2006
CASSIE DLG FEJERAN
Special to the Saipan Tribune
The Marianas High School stage gathered some 239 graduates during their commencement ceremony held Thursday afternoon with Michelle Raganot and Mary Grace Ermitanio taking top honors.
In her valedictory remarks, Raganot shared an advice she based her life upon. “[Graduates] live life without regrets, take that chance and don’t pass up that opportunity,” she said.
Focused on the future, Raganot told graduates to work on the present. “At the present we are living future moments. We can’t change the past, but what we can change is the future for the better,” she said.
Salutatorian Mary Grace Ermitanio encouraged her peers to use what they have learned to achieve their goals.
“As we are about to step off, let [us] keep what we’ve learned and use it to take us where we want to go. The education we [have] received for the past 12 or 13 years is too valuable to be wasted,” she said.
“Find something you are passionate about and set your mind to achieving that goal. Opportunities are present, so take it.”
The graduates joined in with Dr. Charles Algaier during his keynote address. “Let me hear you say YEAH! Everyone join hands…lift up your hands and say RAISE THE ROOF.”
With the graduating class awaiting their diplomas, several students were called to receive the Board of Education Award, Commissioner’s Award, Governor’s Award, Principal’s Award, MHS Community Council Award, and the Mayor’s Community Service Award.
Aside from Raganot and Ermitanio, others graduating with honors included Na Hee Heo, Mantasha Alam, Angelee Maniacop, Cherry Rojo, Xiao Yang, Alicia Braganza, Joanna Cruz, and Alvin Lacsina.
Aside from the family and friends present, the ceremony included the United States Army 302nd Quartermaster Company. “We’re here to support and congratulate one of our soldiers Christine Villacrusis. She has come a long way balancing school with the army and we are extremely proud of the work she has done,” said SSG Ralph Iennaco.
