Northampton, MA — In ceremonies held this morning at Smith College’s Sage Hall, seven area students from HEC Academy in Northampton graduated from high school. Keynote speaker James Arana, Associate Director of Men’s Resource International, praised the students’ accomplishments, telling them that they are “the mathematical equation” for problem solving, and ended by leading the audience in a rousing cheer of “I am so proud of you!” to the graduates. 2010 HEC Academy graduate Alannah Voiland also spoke, sharing insights into life after high school, and the teachers who never stopped encouraging her.
Students officially graduate from their sending school districts. Today’s graduates include Matt Charter, Narragansett, Zachary Mabb, Gill-Montague, Maria Ann Machado, Springfield, Zain Najeebi, East Longmeadow, Jose Ortiz, Northampton, Avery Riddle, Gill-Montague.
This year’s Joan E. Schuman Scholarship recipient is Avery Riddle, who looks to further his education in art and psychology at Greenfield Community College. The Schuman Scholarship supports students moving to a two- or four-year higher education institution.
