AHRC Middle/High School (MHS) held its graduation commencement ceremony on June 29, 2016. Nine students were honored for their achievements, and the day featured speeches from AHRC NYC leadership, MHS staff, community leaders, and more.
The graduates were Harry Burekhovich, George Duah, Ciara McDonagh, Vanessa Silva, Nicholas Weafer, Constantino Chrysostomou, Anwar Jubran, David Cisse Parris, and Travis Thomas.
Gary Lind speaks to graduates, their families, and friends
“If you think back to our origin story a parent in 1948 put an ad in the New York Post that said ‘Looking for other family members that want to start services,’” Gary Lind, Executive Director, said to the graduates. “Over 67 years we’ve been trying to provide supports and services for New York City and all from the spark of that parent. That’s what you represent here today. You are that hope, you are that heart of families and traditions going back generations and generations.”
The ceremony began with a video slideshow accompanied by the MHS Choir singing R. Kelly’s seminal I Believe I Can Fly. Following another choir-led performance of the Star Spangled Banner. Rev. Monsignor Ronald T. Marino gave the benediction, followed by special awards given out on behalf of State Senator Martin J. Golden.
The MHS choir entertained the crowd with renditions of a variety of songs
In addition to Mr. Lind, MHS Principal Andrew Winfrey and Christina Muccioli, Director of Educational Services, gave speeches praising the graduates and staff for their accomplishments over their long tenures. Several staffers received flowers as a thank-you for their hard work and dedication.
Graduate Anwar Jubran holds the flag during the national anthem.
The ceremony closed with a group performance of Rachel Platten’s Fight Song and a farewell message from student, Harry Burekhovich. Many of the graduates will move on to AHRC NYC’s adult programs while others will take some time off before deciding their next step.
AHRC New York City would like to congratulate all of the graduates and their families, as well as thank the entire staff at the Middle/High School for another successful and enriching year of support students with disabilities.
