As crisp and cool as the morning air were the red and white gowns of the Bridgeport High School graduating seniors of the class of 2013.

Two by two, the graduates emerged from the tunnel at Wayne Jamison Field, ready to receive their diplomas and pursue the next chapter of their lives.

Upon taking their seats set upon the turf, some bundled in blankets. But all seemed to take comfort in the messages and special music delivered by their peers.

Senior Class President Nadia Mardmomen provided a heartfelt welcome, reminiscing about her very first day at BHS. It was an intimidating experience, she recalled, laughing about her run-in with a group of senior boys that late-summer day in 2009. Now, here her and her fellow classmates were ending their days at a high school which helped mold and shape them all – preparing them for the journey ahead.

Student Body President Lauren McCarthy then led all graduation attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the singing of the National Anthem, played by current and upcoming members of the BHS Band.

Miss BHS Miki Glenn was up next to share words with her fellow classmates. She expressed appreciation for five little important words provided by family, faculty, administration and coaches throughout the years, “I am proud of you.” It is a welcome expression and one which often provides important assurance and motivation, she said.

Maggie Ludwig of the BHS class of 2013 provided special music, a well-received rendition of “A Way Back to Then.”

Mr. BHS Tyler Sprouse likewise shared words which fell upon listening ears. His speech centered around his faith in God and personal relationship with Jesus Christ. There are many decisions before the Class of 2013, but he had made the most important one, he said.

Jane Byrd, junior/senior counselor, announced scholarship awards received by the graduating class, totaling more than $4 million. (See that list of awards HERE.)

After the presentation of the class by Assistant Principal Matt DeMotto, graduate Kody Mullins provided a vocal number, “Our Time,” followed by the moment the graduates most awaited: The presentation of diplomas (See pictures HERE.) Principal Mark DeFazio did the honors, assisted by 2014 Student Body President Emily Hefner. Sally Cann read the name of each graduating senior as he or she proceeded across the stage.

Following a string performance of Coldplay’s “Viva La Vida” by Celena Bryant, Ashley Driscoll, Nina Graziano, Jenna Hooks, Sundus Lateef and Taylor Swann, the graduates and all those who had come to cheer them on joined in singing the Alma Mater, led by representatives of the BHS Show Choir.

Senior Class Vice President Kallie Nealis and Principal DeFazio provided closing remarks.

Nealis encouraged her fellow graduates to soak up the moment – to feel their heels sinking into the turf and their gowns ruffling in the wind. She also asked them to do the same throughout their lives – and to not miss the ideal opportunity while waiting on a perfect one.

DeFazio gave his final advice to the graduating seniors, delivered by the words of Dr. Seuss:

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. And you are the one who'll decide where to go...”

“In other words,” DeFazio said, “you ultimately decide your own direction in life and therefore your fate. So take this diploma and make it happen.”

Please enjoy today; you have achieved the goal that you set many years ago. Congratulations on a job well done. I hope you are looking forward to the next chapter in your life and I truly hope all of you continue to reach for the stars.”

 

Pictured from top: Miss BHS Miki Glenn, Mr. BHS Tyler Sprouse, boys listen to graduation addresses as they await their diplomas, girls take part in the traditional cap toss. Photos by Julie Perine. More scenes from graduation can be seen HERE.)