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The Blue and Gold Graduation 2014
maldenblueandgold.com
Passing the light to a new future James Mazarakis Head of Opinions
T
he National Honor Society carries on the tradition of inaugurating its newest members and officers, as well as saying goodbye to old ones, in its annual Induction Ceremony. On this day, Apr. 30, 2014, adviser Paul Marques expressed the impression this year’s officers and students have had on the community. He described their projects as among “the most successful... ever,” and congratulated the students for their hard work. After the traditional candle lighting ceremony, the new officers were officially given their roles. Junior and Blue and Gold Member Julie Lam was inaugurated the new president, accompanied by new Vice President and junior Olivia Verdone, new secretary and junior Sebastian Patino, and treasurer and sole sophomore Madeline Lam. Both tears and laughs filled the room as NHS’s seniors described the gratitude they had for family members, particularly their parents, and others. Following this was the awarding ceremony for teacher, staff, and role model of the year. Both Berenice Diaz and Jennifer Rogowicz, math teachers at MHS, were awarded teacherof-the-year. Also, House Principal Diane Klibansky received the Lifetime Achievement award, where she modestly noted that she was just one part of the success that was Malden High School. Klibansky was “honored,” though she remarked that it “goes to the teachers and staff that process studies,” and share the honor with her. Klibansky will be retiring at the end of this year. The Role-Model-of-the-Year award was granted to Spanish teacher Mar Marjomaa this year, whom many students felt had given incredible guidance and empowerment throughout her years of training. Marjomaa gave a humbled speech in response to the high honor. The event concluded with a viewing of NHS members’ presentations of their projects, which included charities, service projects, and fundraisers. From top left, clockwise: Senior Bestine Cong speaking about scholarship. Mayor Gary Christenson making a speech to the audience. NHS inductees reciting the induction pledge. Spanish teacher Mar Marjomaa making a speech after winning mentor-of-the-year. NHS seniors receiving graduating sash and book. New officers being inducted by former officers. Senior NHS president Winnie Chen giving a speech. Math teacher Berenice Diaz giving a speech after winning co-teacher of the year. NHS members on stage. NHS members receiving their pins. Math teacher Jennifer Rogowicz giving a speech after winning co-teacher of the year. Photos by James Mazarakis. Collage by Tatyanna Cabral Senior Winnie Chen passes the light to new president Julie Lam, which symbolizes her new leadership role. Photo by James Mazarakis
Bestine Cong presenting her speech on scholarship. Photo by James Mazarakis