BY JEFF HORVATH
Times-Shamrock Correspondent

A proud and energetic crowd filled the Elk Lake Elementary gymnasium on Thursday to celebrate the graduation of the Susquehanna County Career and Technology Center’s class of 2015.

Lauding the 128 graduates for their fortitude and determination, the school’s executive director, Dr. Alice Davis, addressed the class by saying, “You all have so much to offer the world and I am sure you will all achieve great things.”

Dr. Davis concluded by giving the graduates some words of wisdom moving forward.

“Live in amazement,” “exceed expectations,” “ditch baggage,” and “laugh often,” she said.

Board Member Anne Teel also had some words of encouragement for the class.

“Hold on to not only the knowledge and skills you have gained here, but also the high level of determination and persistence that you have all exhibited,” she said.

Speaking from the perspective of someone with hiring experience in the business world, Ms. Teel said those traits are what will enable one to succeed in the post-graduate world.

Student remarks were given by Justine Wadlington and Kelly Severcool, who offered their own advice to their peers.

Justine advised the class to “go down the right path with the knowledge that you are equipped with the skills to succeed.” Kelly echoed that sentiment, telling her classmates to “draw your own map” and “never let anyone hold you back.”

The SCCTC class of 2015 plans to heed that advice, while embarking on futures in a variety of fields. Of the 128 graduates, 59 will pursue some form of post-secondary education, 64 will enter the workforce and five will join the military.

On their May 12 awards day, the school gave $24,000 in awards to graduating seniors.

Diplomas were conferred by Elk Lake Superintendent Kenneth Cuomo and members of the SCCTC Board of Education.