By Chuck Stewart, Jr.
Newburgh - The 144th commencement exercises of Newburgh Free Academy took place on Thursday, June 25, 2009 at the high school’s Academy Field.
As the summer sun began its decent at seven o’clock in the evening, 672 students began the academic processional down South Street to Edward Elgar’s "Pomp and Circumstance."
Principal Peter Copeletti challenged the entire class of 2009 to "approach anything you want to accomplish, exhibiting the same passion, energy and ideals you displayed throughout your years at NFA."
Just moments prior, the graduates were waiting anxiously in their assigned rooms. Hugs were plentiful. For some the reality of high school coming to an end was starting to set in.
Some shared their plans for the future with friends. Like Lindsay Meyer, who will be leaving for the Army at the end of August. The National Honor Society member knows she will be stationed at Ft. Jackson, South Carolina for a little while. "After that, we’ll see," she says before rejoining her classmates.
Like Meyer’s, Cnira Graci decided to serve her country after graduating from NFA. She recently enlisted in the Navy and will be leaving for basic training in September.
Still other graduating seniors, like Chandra James, will continue their education. James plans on attending Orange County Community College for two years and then attending Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh.
Salutatorian Ashley Briskin told the class of 2009 that twenty years from now, "we’ll look back and have the remembrance of the kid who put a smile on our face, the teacher that made learning something to enjoy, but also time spent with friends."
While this important chapter in their life is coming to an end, Briskin noted that a new one is about to begin. "Next year, we have the opportunity to find our passion in life. The possibilities are endless!"
