Our Maine Street's Aroostook Issue 17 : Summer 2013 | Page 74

NMCC Celebrates Graduates Seek new opportunities. Dare to take risks. Do the hard work of getting involved. These were the challenges set before Northern Maine Community College’s graduating class of 2013 during commencement exercises in May. This year’s graduating class included 235 students representing 22 academic programs. Congressman Michael Michaud presented the commencement address. “It takes a lot of courage to start something new or unknown,” Michaud reminded the graduates. “There are always going to be critics in your life. But you can’t let them get to you. Some of the most difficult decisions I made were the best ones.” In his charge to the graduates, NMCC President Timothy Crowley focused on the duties that face educated individuals in society. “It takes a lot of courage to start something new or unknown.” “It is your responsibility as citizens and parents and sons and daughters to get involved in your community. You will shape the future of our country,” he urged them. “Keep informed and allow yourself to be outraged when events happen that are not consistent with your values. Get engaged to make this a better world.” For the first time, the Student of the Year and student speaker was from Job Corps. “I made a choice to take a chance with the Job Corps program; I made the choice to take a chance with college, and now my life has changed,” Myasia Williams told graduates and guests. “There are going to be times in your life when you’re going to have to stick your neck out. “Get engaged to make this a better world.” President Crowley with Kyle Doody 74 SUMMER 2012