Principal Jose Pagan said graduation is a time for “reflection, goodbyes, and the creation of cherished memories.” He told more than 160 departing Career & Technical Education students they were about to begin the next chapters of their lives, full of challenges to overcome and goals to achieve.

“Each of you has the power to shape your narrative and pave the way for a successful and fulfilling future,” Pagan said. “As we navigate through life, we will encounter both positive and negative experiences. I urge you to harness the positive influence present in this room provided by the adults who have supported you through this journey and to surmount the obstacles that come your way.”

The ceremony’s guest speaker was Christopher Mulkin, a 2011 graduate of the welding program through Erie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES. He said his experience at LoGuidice “paved the way” for his successful career.

Mulkin also acknowledged the roles of the teachers and staff in supporting students.

Submitted photos The King Concert Hall at SUNY Fredonia played host to the LoGuidice Educational Center’s 2024 Senior Recognition Ceremony. More than 160 seniors were recognized for completing a Career & Technical Education program through Erie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES. At top is Christopher Mulkin.

“They have equipped not only me, but I know they have equipped you with the skills and knowledge that are in high demand in this industry,” he said.

Eric McKeown of Cassadaga Valley Central School was the student speaker. He noted the number of career paths open to students after completing one of the Career & Technical Education programs.

McKeown said some students will continue their education at a college or university while others, like him, will enter the military or enter the workforce.

“We are bright, and we are the future of the career and tech workforce that employers can trust to perform beyond expectations,” he said.

Alycia Lacki, school counselor at LoGuidice, announced that about $15,000 in scholarships were awarded. She congratulated students, noting that each took a different path toward graduation.

“We are so proud of each and every one of you,” Lacki said.

The following awards and scholarships were announced: Tri-County BOCES Citizenship Award, Mackenna Snyder and Mack Barresi; Unified Support Association Awards, Christian Merrill; Tri-County BOCES Education Association Leadership Memorial Award, Eric McKeown and Jacob Szumigala; Mancuso Memorial Automotive Technology Scholarship, Logan Winchell; Casella Scholarship, Ethan Racka and Dean League; Lisa Ready Memorial Scholarship, Brenden Mazany; Tobi Cuthbert Scholarship, Cassidy Glapa; Harvey Napolean Cuthbert Scholarship, Bailey Suraf; Jeremy Dolce Memorial Scholarship, Nathaniel Garcia; Teri Centner 4-H Scholarship, Carley Wilson; Far West Council of School Superintendents/ Honors Night, Dean League and Drew Ernewein; Presidents Award of Citizenship, Bianca Chamberlin; Presidents Award of Citizenship, Zachary Lanphere; Presidents Award of Achievement, Kyle Berkshire and Tianna McIntosh; Presidents Award of Excellence, Cora Bearce and Nikolas Ondus.