Liberty High School sends off 87 graduates

Liberty High School Graduation

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By WILLIAM K. ALCORN

alcorn@vindy.com

YOUNGSTOWN

Liberty High School is about “diversity, diversity, diversity” and seeking to be competitive academically as well as on the field, said Rocco Adduci, high school principal.

As proof, Adduci noted during the Class of 2017’s commencement Thursday in Stambaugh Auditorium that the Class of 2017 features 10 valedictorians and two salutatorians and received $1.5 million in scholarships.

Among the class are Raven Clark, daughter of Shawnette Dowdy of Youngstown and Rodney Clark of Niles; Andrew DeJacimo, son of Tony DeJacimo of Southington and Diane DeJacimo of Liberty; and James Lee Welch Jr., son and stepson of James L. and Melissa Welch of Liberty and son of Lisa Marie Welch.

Dowdy described Raven as “an awesome, beautiful, bright young lady who loves school and is a member of the National Honor Society. We are all very proud of her.”

Andrew’s grandmother, Margie DeJacimo of Warren, said her grandson – who plans to study mechanical engineering at Youngstown State University – is tall and quiet and works at Macali’s Giant Eagle in Niles.

“Andrew is an all-around good kid who will do anything for anybody,” his father said.

James Welch plans to study diesel mechanics at TDDS Technical Institute in North Jackson, following in the footprints of his father who is shop foreman at PI&I Motor Express in Masury.

“Andrew is a hard worker and a good student whom the school’s faculty love. His family is very proud of him,” his father said.

The 10 valedictorians and two salutatorians and Ahmad Amireh, class president, all spoke briefly about their time at Liberty High School, the difficulties faced and overcome, the friendships made and the help and support they received from their parents, teachers and staff, and their classmates.

“It’s our actions that determine the direction of our lives,” said Amireh.

He wished his fellow graduates success and urged them to live by these words: love, respect, loyalty and honesty.

Salutatorians Alec Coman and Alyssa Sanders, at the podium together, thanked their parents and teachers for preparing them for this point in their lives and wished their classmates good luck.

Several valedictorians noted that up until now, others have made decisions for them.

“For the first time in our lives the decisions are up to us,” said Jihad Esmail.

“The people you surround yourself with will make you who you are. Be positive and kind to those around you,” said Nicholas Ferraro.

“This is the last time we will all be together. I hope we never forget where we came from – Liberty High School,” said Mary Fitch.