G. Ray Bodley Graduates Remember High School Fondly

FULTON, NY – This weekend’s Class of 2013 graduation ceremony at the Fulton War Memorial turned out to be a time of reflection.

Katelyn Caza, Hannah Geitner, Mary West, Emma Belcher, and Courtney Beckwith take a moment to pose for a picture as all the grads line up for the procession.
Katelyn Caza, Hannah Geitner, Mary West, Emma Belcher, and Courtney Beckwith take a moment to pose for a picture as all the grads line up for the procession.

“The single most important goal for our district and each of staff is today,” said Superintendent William Lynch. “To see each of you walk across the stage and graduate. Congratulations on your success.”

“Its bittersweet because I never thought this day would come,” said Devyn Viscome as the students all lined up for the procession. “But I’m excited to start a new journey in college and really just start my life.”

Viscome will be attending SUNY Brockport for psychology.

“Don’t feel guilty if you don’t know what you want to do with your life,” said Class Advisor Mrs. Hallatt. “The most interesting people I know didn’t know at 22 what they wanted to do with their lives. And some of the most interesting 40 year olds still don’t.”

Salutatorian Katelyn Caza's speech was theatrical and heartfelt.
Salutatorian Katelyn Caza’s speech was theatrical and heartfelt.

Both Mary West’s (Valedictorian) and Katelyn Caza’s (Salutatorian) addresses brought up their favorite memories of high school.

“We made it through a lot of changes this year,” said West. “If I were to say I was happy to be leaving high school, I would not be lying. But I’m still sad.”

She went on to call the Class of 2013 a group of the “most hardworking, kind, dedicated, and courageous people that I have ever met.”

From mentions of singing in the hallways, crazy antics on behalf of the teachers, to the first late homework night, the girls did a wonderful job in both commemorating their time at GRB and bringing it to a close.

Valedictorian Mary West leads the Class of 2013 in moving their tassels and declaring them officially graduated!
Valedictorian Mary West leads the Class of 2013 in moving their tassels and declaring them officially graduated!

Other featured speakers were Class President Patrick Fink, Superintendent Lynch, Class Advisor Mrs. Hallatt, School Board President Dave Cordone, and Principal Donna Parkhurst (who even cracked a smile as beach balls flew around the War Memorial).

“Remember,” said Caza. “No matter where you end up, do not forget where you started. No matter how far you go in life, do not forget you came from good ol’ Fulton. Because it has helped to make you the person you are today. I would not be where I am today if I was not blessed to be around so many great people.”

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