Kirklain Alexander holds his Student of the Year plaque at the Lycoming Career and Technology Center senior ceremony.

HUGHESVILLE – Eighty students form area high schools were honored by the Lycoming Career and Technology Center May 27 during its annual senior ceremony held at Hughesville High School.

Highlights of the ceremony included the presentation of the Student of the Year honors to Kirklain Alexander, a graduate of LycoCTC’s automotive technology program and a senior at Warrior Run High School. Seven students were nominated for the award, which honors those who go above and beyond and are selected by a panel of teachers, school administrators, community and school board members.

Kirklain, who earlier this month received a post-secondary certification in diesel technology from the Central Pennsylvania Diesel Institute, hopes to continue his education while working full time on diesel trucks.

Kirklain also shared how the career and technology center’s emphasis on work ethic, skills and knowledge helped him graduate from Central Pennsylvania Diesel Institute. “I never thought I would be in this unique position as a high school senior. I am thankful for this life-changing experience at LycoCTC,” Kirklain said.

Other students nominated for the award included: Paige Ashton (health careers), Kyle Berry (computer service technology), William Ernst-Wingfield (culinary arts), Kayla Walburn (early childhood education), Daniel Weaver (construction technology) and Shawn Weaver (criminal justice).

Ernst-Wingfield received the Director’s Award for outstanding commitment to the success of culinary arts events at the school.

Keynote speaker for the event was Dr. Timothy Balliett, ethics specialist and affiliate assistant professor of education at the Penn State University, who encouraged the graduates to celebrate their accomplishments and make strides in learning who they are – describing them as blank pieces of paper upon which everyone leaves a mark. “You are something bigger than yourself … never underestimate the influence you will have on others,” he said.

Lycoming Career and Technology Center’s executive director, Eric Butler, congratulated the students on their achievements, noting that this class possesses not only the technology skills to fill today’s in-demand jobs, but also the soft, “people” skills required to assure success in their chosen field.

A reception provided by the LycoCTC culinary arts students was held for graduates and their families following the ceremony.