The last graduating class of the year in Prescott County is ready to boldly go where they’ve never gone before and explore new worlds of wonder.
The Class of 2026 for Vankleek Hill Collegiate Institute said their final farewells, for now, to their alma mater at the end of a two-hour graduation ceremony June 25 that included a video message from the Honourable Lt-Governor Edith Dumont of Ontario wishing them well and encouraging them to have fun and be the best they can be in whatever they do.
“The future is yours,” said Dumont. “Embrace it with confidence.”
The Lt-Governor told grads that their celebration is not just about finishing high school but also marks the beginning of their future importance to the world beyond.
“Your graduation is more than a milestone,” said Dumont. “It is a moment to celebrate not only your achievements, but also the friendships you have made. Your generation has the power to strengthen the province. Your voices and your actions matter.”
This year’s graduating class of VCI numbers 94. Corina Parisien, trustee representative for the Upper Canada District School Board, encouraged graduates to be open to all their potential future achievements as they leave school.
“As you look to the future, remember that it is full of possibilities,” said Parisien.
Among all the honours presented as graduates received their diplomas and Ontario scholar cords for those who achieved merit levels in their studies, three special award presentations highlighted the conclusion of the Class of 2026 ceremony.
The Ontario Principal’s Award for Student Leadership went to Madison Parisien. The Principal’s Trophy and Centennial Bursary was awarded to Alisander Schwendemann. The Governor General’s Academic Medal was presented to Matthew Steele.
The words of reflection, encouragement and advice belonged to VCI co-valedictorians, Soraya McCall Jean-Louis and Madison Parisien.
“Today is the day we’ve imagined for years,” they said. “We’ve learned important skills, like teamwork, perseverance, and time management. We learned that growth often occurs when we step out of our comfort zone and experience challenges. We’ve learned to adapt, to persevere, and to rely on each other.”
The valedictorians gave credit and thanks “to everyone working behind the scenes helping us out”, with Gisèle Paquette, fondly known as “Madame Paquette” singled out for special thanks as she also leaves VCI this year to begin her retirement.
“You’ve been the best,” said Parisien and Jean-Louis.
