UPTON – The Blackstone Valley Tech class of 2023 commencement ceremony was held at The Hanover Theatre & Conservatory for the Performing Arts, Worcester, on May 25. The evening ceremony celebrated the accomplishments of its 294 graduates.
Graduates from Grafton include:
- Jordyn Clarissa Carroll, health services (National Honor Society)
- Juliana Elizabeth Errara, health services
- Cameron Thomas Ladd, electrical
- Hailey Alayne Lutjelusche, engineering and robotics
- Noah Teodoro Mariano, engineering and robotics (NHS/National Technical Honor Society)
- Owen Arthur Mathieu, heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration
- Megan Ines Moreira, automotive technology
- Garrett Kenneth Remillard, automotive collision repair and refinishing
- Sean David Real Sage, advanced manufacturing and fabrication
- Ashley Nicole Waldo, plumbing (NHS/NTHS)
- Henry Albert Warfield, electronics and engineering technology (NHS)
“We all have great reasons to be proud as we gather to honor these students for completing a major milestone in their lives,” said Assistant Superintendent-Director/Principal Anthony E. Steele II in his opening remarks. “We commend the members of the class of 2023 for maintaining their focus and for their dedication to reaching the goal of becoming a Blackstone Valley Tech graduate.”
The ceremony included the national anthem sung by graduate Carleigh Koopman of Northbridge. Next, Yvette Martin, director of student services, delivered the benediction. Then, graduates Mason Day of Hopedale and Luke Scholl of Northbridge performed “Wild Horses” by the Rolling Stones, followed by several speakers.
Thanking those who helped them on their journey was a shared theme for those who spoke during the ceremony. Katelyn Steele of Upton, valedictorian, spoke about the positive traits the lass of 2023 possess as “beavers,” such as constructing houses, treating sick patients and engineering solutions to global problems.
“Few know the obstacles you have overcome to be where you are today,” said Superintendent-Director Michael F. Fitzpatrick. “You, the class of 2023, are part of our legacy and forever a part of our collective voyage. As you set your sights on your future goals, do not give up on your dreams because real magic happens when you take a leap of faith and believe in yourself. We look forward to celebrating your continued success.”
They received a vocational certificate and a diploma, which certify mastery of competencies in their career-technical programs and a rigorous academic course of study. The evening celebration concluded with applause for the graduates as they tossed their caps into the air.
To view the ceremony, visit www.valleytech.k12.ma.us/classof2023.
