SOUTH KINGSTOWN -- Amid the traditional strains of "Pomp and Circumstance" in the University of Rhode Island's Ryan Center, the 397 members of Coventry High School's Class of 2006 were presented diplomas last night.
Supt. Kenneth DiPietro told the graduates that their diplomas were worth more than their weight in gold.
He and other speakers urged them to strive for success and be true to themselves.
"Go classically amid the noise and hassle," advised Nancy Sprengelmeyer, chairwoman of the School Committee. "Be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth, quietly and clearly. Listen to others, even the dull and ignorant. There will always be greater and lesser persons than you. Keep interested in you own career. Be yourself. Do not feign affection."
Jenny Lau, this year's salutatorian, reminded her fellow graduates that sometimes it takes only one person to make a crucial difference in the life of another. "To the world, you may be somebody -- but to somebody, you may be the world.
Quoting Confucius, Lau said, "Be the change you wish to see in the world." Valedictorian Mary Barden challenged the Class of 2006 to face the future with confidence and learn from successes and failures.
"Tonight the responsibility for our futures shifts to us alone," Barden said. "Whether you will be attending college next year, joining the work force, or entering the armed forces, you are the person who will decide your success in life. If you believe in yourself and have confidence in your ability ... every one of you can have a significant impact on society."
Online at: http://www.projo.com/ri/coventry/content/projo_20060616_covgrad.1edb545.html