By Ed Karvoski Jr., Contributing Writer
Shrewsbury – Diplomas were presented to 433 class of 2019 Shrewsbury High School (SHS) graduates during a ceremony May 30 at DCU Center in Worcester. The move to a new venue accommodated more guests as well as a growing student enrollment.
Principal Todd Bazydlo expressed feeling proud and privileged to be part of the graduates’ education process. Superintendent Dr. Joseph Sawyer noted that this SHS class made history as the first to graduate at DCU Center, where they graced the same stage as icons such as Madonna, Paul McCartney and Snoop Dogg.
School Committee Chair Sandra Fryc said, “The class of 2019 represents leadership.”
Valedictorian Julia Duda reminisced about fun experiences with her classmates, who she considers family the past four years. Salutatorian Ian Chandra advised his classmates to step outside of their comfort zone and feel comfortable feeling uncomfortable.
Other speakers included class officers Hewan Weldai, president; Natalia Karadimitriou, vice president; Rahul Razdan, treasurer; Ashvaraya Gite, secretary; and Declan McSweeney, marshal; as well as Meher Gandhi, Student Council president.
Music was provided by the SHS Orchestra conducted by Kate Mercadante, and the Senior Choir under the direction of Michael Lapomardo accompanied by pianist Keith Chan.