third way events

On September 22, 2005 the Marvin W. Foote Educational Program held a fall graduation ceremony for two students, who received diplomas for their coursework. Many guests, including facility staff, family and friends, attended the celebration, which featured an inspiring keynote speaker, Mrs. Elizabeth Brown. Speaking directly to the graduates, Mrs. Brown affirmed the students’ accomplishment and encouraged them to pursue further education beyond their high school academic experience. Subsequently, the school principal spoke, followed by the students, who gave their own speeches. The graduates expressed pride and enthusiasm in receiving their diplomas and each mentioned the importance of family in his speech. After the students moved their tassels, signifying their advancement, all celebrants enjoyed a lunch and had an opportunity to personally congratulate each graduate. The occasion marks the fourth graduation ceremony and, as with every other event honoring student achievement, the staff at the Marvin W. Foote Youth Services Center rejoices in their success.

Below are photographs from the graduation ceremony, as well as a transcript of the Benediction delivered by Stephen Kopanos.

Benediction

I want to thank all of you for attending, and for your part, great or small, in the achievements of these youth.

Students- what you achieve today is a marker.

Just as you pass mile markers on the road, and they tell you how far you have traveled, they also tell you how far you have left to go.

You see, Education is only one step towards wisdom, and wisdom is much more valuable and much harder to achieve.

Strength is more impressive, yet far less effective than wisdom, but

Wisdom gives us balance, confidence and insight.

None of these is naturally occurring, but each is a bi-product of wisdom.

So, as you go forward toward your next mile marker, Remember to choose the way of wisdom, never letting the boundaries of your past, become the horizons of your future.

If you will stand,

Please move your tassels to signify the completion of this step on your way towards wisdom.

Congratulations Graduates!!!!!!!

(Audience) – Please join us in celebrating our graduates achievements!