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MCCTC seniors step into their future
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Neighbors | Shaiyla Hakeem .Boardman's Jayme Brown (left) receives her senior passport from Kathi McNabb-Welsh, MCCTC Board of Education. Brown completed MCCTC's Biotechnology Tech Prep progam.
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Neighbors | Shaiyla Hakeem .MCCTC Board of Education member Kathi McNabb-Welsh (left) hands William Rivers Jr., of Boardman, his senior passport. Rivers completed MCCTC's Aviation Maintenance Mechanics program.
The Mahoning County Career and Technical Center honored seniors at its 37th annual Senior Awards Ceremony June 9 by presenting them with career-technical certificates and senior passport.
Students wore the cap and gown associated with their perspective high school and were called up individually to receive their awards.
More than 280 students from 13 different school districts were honored during the ceremony for completing one of MCCTC’s programs. Those receiving scholarships and enlisting into the military were also acknowledged. Since the students completed the MCCTC program, attending their high school’s graduation is optional.
The senior tribute was given by Shelby Brenzovich. She was a part of the National Honors Society, National Technical Honors Society and a recipient of the Award of Distinction and GAC Outstanding Student and Benny Award.
Brenzovich said the instructors at MCCTC went above and beyond the requirements of their professional title to help students reach their academic and life goals.
“Here, the instructors are more than just teachers. They acted as mentors, friends and most importantly, our biggest cheerleaders,” she said.
Fred Soller, MCCTC’s only remaining founder, gave the senior address urging the students to live in the moment of “now.” He talked about the vision he had for the center and how amazing it is to see how it has evolved over the years.
Soller was also formally inducted into the school’s Wall of Fame. The wall was initiated in 2005 and now has six members.
“The purpose of the Wall of Fame is to preserve a bit of our history by recognizing our successful graduates and those who have made a significant contribution to our school,” MCCTC Superintendent Roan Craig said.
Following the awards ceremony, students were met by proud parents and family members. Refreshments were served by MCCTC culinary arts students and students were free to socialize.
Canfield’s Nicolette Soltis is excited about graduating and moving into the next chapter of her life. She will be attending Youngstown State University in the fall studying graphic design.
“I feel like I am ahead,” Soltis said. “MCCTC prepared me for college by the different programs that it offers.”