‘This is the beginning’

Lowellville High School

Gallery

The Class of 2010 graduates the 121st class

By LINDA M. LINONIS

linonis@vindy.com

LOWELLVILLE

Dr. Charlene Arendas, Lowellville High School Class of 2000 salutatorian, returned to her alma mater Sunday afternoon and told the members of Class of 2010 not to let anything hold them back from achieving their dreams.

Just a few years ago, she was in their shoes. Now, the 27-year-old has earned a doctor-of-veterinary-medicine degree from Ohio State University, has a career, started a business and bought a home.

She wouldn’t be where she is now if a friend hadn’t asked her a pointed question about why she was an accounting major at Youngstown State University. The question made her think about her future, and she ended up earning a bachelor’s degree in biology. Arendas said she grew up around animals, and her family has been raising llamas since 1995. She dreamed of being a veterinarian, but since she was distressed at the sight of blood, she thought her dream never would be realized. Her desire to care for animals helped her overcome her difficulty. “Shortcomings keep us motivated,” she said.

She told the 63 graduates, “If you love your work, you’ll be happy,” she said of the satisfaction she gets from helping animals.

Arendas told the young people that they have opportunities for education, travel and community service. “Keep an open mind for new ideas,” she urged them.

“High school is not the end but the beginning of lifelong learning,” Arendas said. “This is the beginning of your lives. ... Welcome to the real world.”

Dominic Donofrio, class president, was among the student speakers at the 121st commencement ceremony.

“Now is the time to step out of the shadow of parents,” he said, and come to a time when they’re not identified as someone’s younger brother or sister. “Set goals high. ... Reach for the stars and bring them back to earth.”

Salutatorian Michelle Sergi said the challenges, accomplishments and mistakes of high school days are a foundation.

“Let the past help you build your future,” she said.

The five valedictorians also offered brief messages.

Mauro Amendola said graduation was a moment to be “remembered all our lives ... no matter where the future takes us.”

Michael Basista commented on the “high potential” of the Class of 2010. “It all comes down to one person — you — to control your future.”

Monica Ciarniello said class members have exhibited leadership skills in many areas. Quoting legendary football coach Vince Lombardi — “Leaders aren’t born, they’re made” — she said graduates have developed skills.

Dina Fabry asked graduates to “listen to our own hearts” and “believe in ourselves.”

Corinne Pavlicko described the class as “overachievers” but were helped by family, friends and school staff to do so.

Superintendent Rocco Nero advised the graduates, “People forget what we say and do but don’t forget how we make them feel.” He said to remember that as they go through life.

Program participants were: Sam Ramunno, high school principal; Karen Price, guidance counselor; Joseph Harris, class vice president, invocation; Samuel DeCesare, class treasurer, benediction; and Emily Carlson, musical interlude.