“Honouring the Past, Heralding the Future” was the theme of the ALHCS Sixth Form graduating ceremony held at the Teachers’ Resource Centre on Thursday 28th June. Welcoming everyone, and making opening remarks, was the chairperson Mr. Colin Johnson. Of the 44 students enrolled in the Sixth Form program, 33 met the graduating criteria and were present at the ceremony.
Congratulatory remarks were made by the Honourable Minister of Education, Mr. Edison Baird. He told the students that while they reflected on their theme of honouring the past, they must remember the virtues of competition, determination and ambition that are symbolic to the historical journey of Anguilla. He urged the graduates to honour the legacy of their Anguillian forefathers because doing so will serve them well in their personal lives. “Be the kind of young people that Anguilla needs: co-exist peacefully, never give up on a good cause and take advantage of opportunities to further your education,” Mr. Baird admonished. He assured the graduates that if that was done Anguillians will gain confidence knowing that the country is in good hands.
Also delivering congratulatory remarks was the Principal of the ALHCS, Mrs. Ingrid Lake. She reminded the students that they were now embarking on another stage of their development which required them to assume greater responsibility. She encouraged them to value themselves, control their thoughts and guard against forces that were not in their best interest.
The keynote speaker was Rev. Erica Carty who delivered a very vibrant and inspirational address. She encouraged the students to write the next chapter in their lives. According to her, this could only be accomplished if they had a vision. “Living with a vision: is a daring adventure. It is focusing not on specific results but on the quality of life you want to live.” Rev. Carty told the students to have a vision for every area of their personal lives such as jobs, careers and education.
She also made it clear that determination was a necessary ingredient in the shaping of the lives of students as it allowed them to continue pressing forward with confidence, hope and tenacity. “Each day of your life, you must live to be the best; and even though you’ll encounter failures and setbacks, you must be determined to push forward and hold on to your dream,” she advised.
The presentation of certificates and awards to the graduates was made by Principal Mrs. Lake. Two of the outstanding awardees were Conlloyd Gumbs and Mikeela Skellekie. Conlloyd received subject awards for Physics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science and Geography; and Mikeela received awards for Caribbean Studies, Sociology, French and Spanish. Other awardees were Lavelle Niles, Jevohn Martin, Dayna Fleming, Dee-Ann Rogers, Jahmal Richard, Jean-Louis Haywood, Karece Webster and Willine Richardson.
The vote of thanks was rendered by graduate Dawvier Gumbs.
(Article and Photos by Arthur D. Ward)
