Sarah Rennie
One advantage to this year’s cooler spring weather was a significantly more comfortable temperature in the gymnasium at Chateauguay Valley Regional High School for family and friends as they awaited the arrival of the Class of 2019 to start the annual graduation ceremonies, which took place in Ormstown on June 15.
In her opening remarks, principal Brigitte Barrette spoke warmly of this year’s graduating class, commenting on their dedication and hard work while highlighting their uniqueness and energy before wishing them all ongoing success as they say goodbye to high school and the corridors of CVR.
Class valedictorian Vanessa Krohn addressed her classmates and the audience of proud parents and family members with a rousing speech that culminated in an exceptional piano solo that brought the entire room to its feet.
Once the crowd returned to their seats, the program continued with the presentation of diplomas, the introduction of this year’s inductees into the Cum Laude Society for students graduating with honours standing, as well as those who completed the Universal Program. This was followed by the presentation of prizes for achievement in subject areas as well as medals and awards for achievement.
This year, the CVR Educational Foundation generously awarded 23 bursaries to deserving students and 23 scholarships for academic excellence. In the 34 years since the Foundation was created, more than $635,000 has been awarded to students moving on from the high school. This year, the winner of the Birks Bronze Medal for the student with the second highest academic average was presented to Kelsey Sylvester. The Reverend John (Jack) C.T. Johnson Memorial Scholarship, the Birks Silver Medal and the Reeves Scholarship, which is awarded to the student with the highest academic achievement, were presented to class valedictorian Vanessa Krohn.
The afternoon then moved on with the announcement of the winners of the 2019 School Life Awards. This year, the Lloyd H. Adamson Prize for the graduating student best exemplifying the spirit of CVR was awarded to Duncan McIntyre.
Graduates then recessed out of the gymnasium for traditional post-ceremony photos before heading their separate ways to celebrate this significant milestone with their families.
Congratulations to the Class of 2019!
