From left, Youngstown Board of Education member Brenda Kimble, adult education director Sherry Cross, Choffin supervisor and counselor Kaylor White and school counselor Natalie Scott interact with graduates as they walk across the stage during the Thursday graduation ceremony at Choffin Career and Technical Center.

YOUNGSTOWN — It was a day for celebration for two Youngstown City School District schools that had graduation ceremonies Thursday.

Rayen Early College High School and the Choffin Career and Technical Center each held ceremonies. Both events were filled with excitement, joy and a sense of pride from parents and school staff as their students entered the next phase of their lives.

Schools Superintendent Justin Jennings, at the Rayen Early College ceremony, challenged the graduating class as they go down the next road in their journey to “be the change” that they wish to see in the world.

“You’ve watched violence in our country, with our children, you’re watching racism; you’re watching the politics. And the only way you can change is that you have to be that change. It’s going to be up to your generation,” Jennings said.

He expressed pride and pleasure in seeing the students celebrate their achievements.

Four valedictorians, Samir Cologne, Elizabeth Crockett, Gianna Townsend and Sean Wessinger, gave speeches during the ceremony.

Townsend, who is looking to attend The Ohio State University, took the audience back to her childhood. Even then, the graduate described being focused on her grades, so much so that she missed out on extracurricular activities.

At the Rayen Early College, Townsend said that all changed, and she encouraged others to seize every opportunity.

“Live your life. Don’t be so caught up in the things that go wrong that you miss out on the things that could have possibly changed your life,” Townsend said. If something doesn’t go as planned, her message to fellow graduates is: “If COVID-19 taught us anything, it’s that we can and will bounce back from whatever life throws at us.”

Some families and friends of the graduates moved from one ceremony to the other, celebrating the accomplishments of their loved ones.

CHOFFIN

The Choffin CTC students were recognized for their dedication to a variety of programs, from allied health to public safety and cosmetology.

Choffin Director Mike Saville told students he had three goals for them: graduate on time, earn industry certifications and portfolios, and to have the graduates in their career or college.

“We’ve always told you from Day One when you come into this building, we will do everything we can to support you. But it is on you to accomplish that we cannot do those things for you,” Saville said. “And you’ve responded the past two years, you’ve done what you’re supposed to do. You put yourself in a position of success.”

Many of the graduates accepted the challenge, having secured jobs in their field of study, while others plan to continue their education at college.

Extending a hand to the departing students, Saville assured them that the career center would always be a safe haven to each of them, making a commitment to always support them along their different career paths.

“You will always have a place to come if you want to reconnect with your instructors or support staff, if you need help getting help with your career and brushing up on those skills,” he said. “So always understand that we are always here to help you, and we’ll be your family for eternity.”

cmcbride@tribtoday.com