During a lively ceremony in the Dean gymnasium this afternoon, 71 students celebrated their graduation from HHS Dean, having met the requirements for high school diplomas and their vocational training in their career-technical programs.
The ceremony featured student remarks from class president Felix Santiago, salutatorian Dayshaliz Torres, and valedictorian Isaac E. Rosado-Cruz. Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia, Superintendent Anthony Soto, and Principal Roseanne Caracciolo gave additional remarks and words of encouragement for the new graduates.
Of the students recognized during the ceremony, 15 graduated with honors and 10 with high honors. In addition, 14 graduates are members of the National Technical Honor Society. Natalie Colon was highlighted as the Vocational Student of the Year.
Among the 71 graduates, all nine of Dean’s Career and Technical Vocational programs are represented. The culinary arts program, with 14 graduates, had the most students represented, followed by 10 students from the electrical program, nine each from diesel technology and automotive collision, eight from cosmetology, seven each from health assisting and carpentry, three from programming and web development, and two from advanced manufacturing.
Additionally, two of Dean’s graduates received degrees after completing their coursework at Holyoke High School’s Opportunity Academy.