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Schools

Class of 2011 Looks to 'Pay it Forward'

Graduating seniors pledge to impact the Witch City and beyond.

After four years of tests, projects and practical jokes, Principal David Angeramo’s final message to the Class of 2011 was simple: “pay it forward.”

“The best way to make an impression is to pass on a good deed,” Angeramo told his departing seniors. “It’s often those little unexpected kindnesses in life that make the biggest difference.”

Angeramo’s sentiments echoed through the speeches of senior orators and public officials alike. Mayor Kimberley Driscoll, Superintendent Dr. William Cameron and City Council President Jerry Ryan offered advice and congratulations to Salem’s 272 graduating seniors. Class President Janice Dominguez, Senior Orator Meghan Debski, Valedictorian Victoria Phu and Salutatorian Kurtis Banville each addressed the capacity crowd of supporters packed to the field house rafters on Friday night.  

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“Above all else, I will never forget the smiles I always got from all of you in the hallways,” said Class President Janice Dominguez. “Somehow they always found a way to my heart and made me smile in return.”

Valedictorian Victoria Phu urged her fellow graduates to preserve that sense of camaraderie beyond the halls of Salem High.  

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"If you see someone from high school years from now, please don't do that thing where you make awkward eye contact and then look away from each other quickly," Phu said, garnering nervous giggles from her classmates. "Say hello. Have a real conversation. Our shared experiences make us who we are — that means we should always have something to talk about."

As Salem High School’s graduates prepare to enter college and the workforce, many already have community service endeavors in their immediate plans.

Daniel Zizza will continue his studies with the U.S. Marine Corps, majoring in music on base in Parris Island, NC. Zizza will play trombone in the Marine Corps band as he undergoes basic training.

“I’m just excited to start serving my country,” he said.  

It was Jennifer Vu’s senior service project that inspired her to pursue an engineering degree at UMass Lowell, where she will matriculate this fall. The most exciting part of graduation for her?

“Not having to wake up before seven every single morning,” she said with a laugh.  

After receiving their diplomas, many seniors rushed to the wings to hug family members and teachers, thanking them repeatedly for their guidance and support throughout the years.

“We wouldn’t be here without you,” a tearful Class President Janice Dominguez said. “Now it’s our turn to go out and show everyone what you’ve taught us.”

For more on Salem High School's graduation, be sure to check out our  Feel free to add your own photos and videos of graduation to the site. Many congratulations to Salem High School's Class of 2011!

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