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Howland’s 221 graduates in Class of 2017 represent diversity ... Passion, compassion
WARREN
The first diploma given at the Howland High School Commencement on Wednesday at W.D. Packard Music Hall was an honorary document awarded to Kyle Davis, accepted by his mother, Donna Davis, because her son is gravely ill and was unable to attend the ceremony.
“Kyle, who participated in football and bowling, has a special place in our hearts. We will miss his wonderful smile and infectious laugh,” said schools Superintendent Kevin Spicher.
“The Class of 2017 is very diverse, talented and very close-knit,” said Howland High School Principal Sandra Williams.
“It is an interesting class to say the least. When you [the students] came to me and described a project or a prank, my only question was, ‘Will I still be employed when this is over?’ I’m proud to have been your principal,” Williams said.
“The Class of 2017 has both passion and compassion,” said Dr. Kenneth Jones, Howland Board of Education president.
He urged the 221 graduates to “follow your heart, but lead with your head, and always take care of your community, and your community will take care of you. Howland needs you. I have complete faith in my future because of you,” Dr. Jones said.
“Take a moment to reflect on the twists and turns and challenges faced in high school, whether they be academic, athletic or personal,” said class President Leah Pollifrone, who welcomed and introduced guests.
Natalie Chambers and Ryan Sekanick were elected by their classmates to present the honor orations. Requirements included having a 3.4 grade-point average or higher.
The class valedictorians are Amanda Koloskee, Samuel Mattern, Madeline Reuschling and Emily Schneider. The Salutatorian is Michael McIntyre.
Among the diverse graduates are Taleigh Keene, Shelby Hendricks, Connor Dessez, Bryce Diglaw, Andrew Cavender and Daniel R. Engle.
Taleigh, daughter of William and Staci Brindle, spent her last two years of high school at the Trumbull County Technical Center earning certificates in pre-nursing and emergency medical technician. She has enlisted in the Navy.
Shelby, who transferred from a different school system, praised Howland High for giving her a fresh start, a chance to make new friends and the opportunity to participate in chorus and show choir. She too received an EMT certificate from TCTC.
Connor said he made a lot of good memories at the school. He plans to attend New Castle School of Trades to become an electrician.
Calling Howland High “a great school with great teachers and facilities,” Bryce Diglaw said band “really brought me out of my shell. He plans to attend TCTC to study landscape design.
“We’re very proud of him,” said Cheryl Condo-Cavender of her son, Andrew, whom she described as “a good kid and a good student.” Andrew plans to study conservation biology at Thiel College in Greenville, Pa.
Tom and Deborah Hibbs of Howland were in the audience to watch their grandson, Daniel Engle, graduate. They said Daniel, who plans to study computer science at Youngstown State University, was a member of the marching and symphonic bands, first playing trumpet and then percussion. “He loved it,” the couple said.
Superintendent Spicher concluded his remarks by saying: “As you leave high school, it is important that you try hard and give back what has been given to you. I hope you will thank all the people – your families and friends and teachers – who share in your accomplishments. We are deeply proud of you.”