Alpino, Manglona top Rota High graduates

Katelyn M. Alpino and Pauline M. Manglona were named this year’s most outstanding graduates of Rota High School after receiving the highest academic honors during Thursday’s commencement exercises.

Alpino emerged the 2011 class valedictorian and recipient of the Board of Education award.

The 18-year-old graduate is the daughter of Arthur and Guina Alpino and will pursue college at Philadelphia University for her pre-medicine course.

Besides the highest honor, Alpino was also bestowed the prestigious governor’s leadership award and the Rota mayor’s award for this year.

During the same ceremony, she was awarded a $1,000 scholarship grant for her college education by Kolehio Foundation, a nonprofit organization formed by Sen. Paul Manglona and his wife Lydia in 1989 in recognition of the academic achievements of Rota students.

Alpino described the feeling as “overwhelming” upon receiving all these honors. She especially recognized her parents for the sacrifices in supporting her studies throughout the years. “Without them, I would have not made this far.” In her valedictory address, Alpino also lauded the important contributions of her mentors, colleagues, and friends in completing her secondary education with flying colors.

Named this year’s salutatorian was Pauline M. Manglona, the recipient of the Commissioner of Education award and was also among the recipients of Kolehio Foundation that granted her $700 in financial assistance for her college.

Pauline is the daughter of Sen. Paul Manglona and Lydia Manglona. She will further her education at the University of New Mexico where she will take up nursing.

The 17-year-old top student said it was a great feeling when all the hard work finally paid off. She vowed to continue to strive for excellence in her college to achieve her goals. She also recognized her parents for their unconditional support and love throughout the years. Manglona was also a member of the National Honor Society.

Rota High School principal Sharlene Manglona, along with education officials, conferred diplomas to 31 high school students this school year.

Named in the Top 10 list were Katelyn Alpino, Pauline Manglona, Crystal Calvo, Jennylyn Dela Cruz, Anton Salazar, Aurionne Hizon, Shane Ogo, Mark Guiawan, Princes Ayuyu, and Loraina Aguon.

The event was keynoted by the school’s senior class adviser Camas Baugh.