By JoAnn Tier

The future is promising for the 1,588 high school students who compose the graduating Class of 2015.   Their focus and preparation for college and continued education has been recognized and handsomely acknowledged as the graduates garnered in excess of $211 million in scholarships and grants.  Congratulations, graduates!

Donning academic attire for Baccalaureate Masses and graduations, the students exhibited dignity and joy in the commencement experiences.  These unforgettable moments, now magical memories tucked away into the depths of their hearts, are a reflection of the great attention to detail and hours of planning orchestrated by each school’s administration and faculty in creating a beautiful and unique moment in time.

The Baccalaureate Masses provided the time for pastors and clergy to highlight this day, this rite of passage, as homilies and reflections expressed good wishes and bittersweet farewells to the graduates.  The strains of magnificent choirs and bell choirs were imprinted in the experience.  The presence of alumni, in many cases, graduates celebrating their 50th year since commencement, further expanded the traditions as reflections drifted to former days. Administrators and teachers spoke of the graduates accentuating their amazing spirit and their sound moral compass.  They are self-disciplined and self-directed learners; students who live the tenets of the Catholic faith in their responsiveness and compassion for others. 

Life lessons were imparted in the remarks of valedictorians, salutatorians and keynote speakers. Frank Federici, an alumnus celebrating his 40th year of graduation from St. John Vianney High School, spoke of his personal philosophy of always giving 100 percent in all things.  Hard work, fortitude, persistence and commitment guided his path as his talents as a local entrepreneur unfolded.

Joseph Bianchi, director of Administrative Services and Human resources for the Diocese, recounted how his trust in the Master Planner guided his decisions when tasked with the responsibility of addressing the extensive damage in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. Tough decisions were made and the work was guided by his mantra of “doing the right thing.” He related to St. Rose High School graduates how his formation in Catholic school and his trust in God intrinsically prepared him to address this challenge. He counseled the graduates “in your time of challenge, you too will be more prepared than you think.”

Through their years of education, Catholic school graduates have been formed in the faith. It is engrained in them and will provide the sound decision-making so necessary in living a balanced life, a life of integrity. The graduates embrace a personal philosophy and a work ethic that have prepared them to lead and to contribute.  May the joy of their youth flourish in adulthood as they define their future and discover their life’s purpose.

Graduates of the Class of 2015, remember that God is always present in your life; model the teachings of Jesus in all things; contribute your talents and make a positive imprint on our world. God’s blessings on your graduation and as you move forward to experience new learning and to create new lasting memories.

JoAnn Tier is diocesan moderator of Catholic education and superintendent of schools.