An open letter to the Middlebury Union High School community and area businesses:
With the sounds and sights of the 28th consecutive Project Graduation celebration still fresh in my memory, I write this letter of thanks to all the businesses and individuals whose generosity contributed to the joy and experiences of Commencement and Project Graduation for the MUHS Class of 2015. It was truly special and memorable.
Senior Week is always a special time at MUHS. The Raft Race and Senior Picnic at Branbury State Park, the parade down Court Street and past the Mary Hogan School, the Commencement Exercises and the culminating event of Project Graduation throughout the night of the 13th remind us of the spirit and shared commitment to excellence that exists in the MUHS community.
Again this year, the Senior Play proved to be very successful and helped meet most of the demands the end of the year brings. And while the cast and crew from the class itself should be proud of their tremendous effort, we must not forget the efforts of parents and local businesses who stepped forward like never before to support the cause.
That same spirit of support maintained itself as Project Grad grew nearer. Shelly Becker and Elaine Desforges oversaw the final details of chaperone assignments and food planning. Their willingness to step up and provide an almost seamless event deserves acknowledgement and heartfelt thanks. Note: 97 members of the class were present all evening to enjoy the various venues and activities. This number is consistent with the attendance of the last five years and demonstrates the stability of the program.
In this, the 28th consecutive year that the school, parents and local businesses have combined to support this celebration, we again paid a special tribute to the memory and spirit of Carl Ciemniewski, a beloved, long-time teacher and coach at MUHS who passed away last spring. Carl was one of the original founders of Project Graduation, and he returned each year to lead the casino portion of the night. This year, the casino event was named after him with a special plaque and it was easily the most attended portion of the evening at the Fitness Edge. A special thanks to Bruce MacIntire for stepping up and coordinating the casino events.
As I take my leave of MUHS and Project Grad, I would like to extend my special thanks to Sean Farrell, the activities director for his continued dedication and energy that has contributed to the success of this event. His efforts, the enthusiasm for the seniors, the tireless efforts of so many parents and the incredibly generous support from the community and local businesses makes me proud to have been a part of this school and event. Many thanks.
Doc Seubert, Project Grad Coordinator, Middlebury Union High School