Mooney graduates 137 today

YOUNGSTOWN

On paper, Madeleine P. Leek and Christian S. Dama have a lot in common. The two Cardinal Mooney High School graduates were National Honor Society members, loved being in Terri Kenner’s advanced-placement chemistry class and plan to enter the medical field.

Perhaps more importantly, however, each suffered the loss of her mother, and both plan to use their adversity and higher education to benefit others.

“My mom was incredible,” remembered Dama, who plans to attend Walsh University in North Canton to major in biology and pre-med. “She was the most selfless, giving person and definitely the best role model a girl could ever have.

“I’d love to take my experiences into the oncology field and help people going through the struggle we endured.”

Leek cried as she thought about her mother, who she said would have been proud to see her receive her diploma during Mooney’s 57th annual commencement Saturday at Stambaugh Auditorium. Both were among 137 members of the Class of 2015 who took home diplomas during the ceremony.

Read more about the event in Sunday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.