(L-R) Class President Steven Saladino, Salutatorian Eric Hiller, Valedictorian Jay Hiller and Principal Ron Lorson were graduation speakers at Hughesville High School.   

HUGHESVILLE – Parting words from speakers for the graduating class at Hughesville High School included memories, gratitude and expectations for the future.

Class president Steven Saladino challenged fellow classmates to “embrace diversity and expand our imaginations. We are tomorrow’s leaders who’ve been helped by passionate adults. Get out there and enjoy life, stay focused and confident.” Saladino will continue his education at St. Joseph’s College in Philadelphia studying business and ethics.

Twin brothers Jay and Eric Hiller held the top two academic spots. Salutatorian Eric Hiller was appreciative of Hughesville’s education system. He said, “Most schools are cutting back, here more and better equipment is being provided.” Hiller had not begun his studies at Hughesville, but when coming here, he found the students to be friendly and caring. After saying the school ranked 43rd in the state, the salutatorian said, “We should set ourselves on becoming something even greater.”

Valedictorian Jay Hiller spoke of heroes, his being a sister, Lauren, who had graduated from Bishop Newman in 2008 as valedictorian of her class. “Heroes should be real people, close to home like the entirety of the school staff, family and classmates,” he said. “If we really want to be a hero, we should look deep inside and find our superpower. If you’re not making someone else’s life better, then you’re wasting your time. Influence is a strong power, use it to teach and inspire,” the valedictorian said.

The dedication of the yearbook was announced by seniors Teagan Ergott and Taylor Klein. For the second time, Mr. Michael Whitmire, a member of the custodial staff was honored. Students and staff refer to Whitmire as “Mike, the go-to man.”

The traditional turning of tassels occurred after Hughesville High School Principal Ron Lorson declared the seniors had officially graduated.

Officers for the class of 2013 included Steven Saladino, President; Austin Benedict, Vice President; Jessica Shetler, Treasurer; Jared Walter, Secretary. Class advisor was Mrs. Michele Beck.