Mayor Michael McGlynn’s MHS Graduation Remarks

Mayor Michael McGlynn, School Superintendent Roy Belson, and Medford High School Headmaster Paul Krueger lead the graduating seniors into Tufts University’s Gantcher Center.

Medford Mayor Michael McGlynn made the following remarks at the Medford High School Class of 2009 Graduation on June 3:

Superintendent Belson, Dr. Krueger, Vocational Director Mahoney, fellow School Committee members, faculty, family members and the class of 2009.

This is a day of celebration for each of you! I am pleased to be with you today to join in the celebration and to offer congratulations and best wishes on the occasion of your graduation from Medford High School!

You should feel a great sense of accomplishment today, for you have reached an important goal in your life. I am sure that you realize this was a team effort, and that you may not have been here today without the help and assistance of your family, friends, teachers, coaches and administrators who stood by you, encouraged you, pushed you and believed in you! You should all cherish their direction and guidance.

You are now a citizen of a world. as President Obama stated during his commencement speech at Notre Dame a few weeks ago: “Your class comes of age at a moment of great consequence for our nation and our world. Your generation is the one who must try to find some of the answers.” I have faith that you will take the leadership role and stand up for those who can not stand up for themselves.

Our world today presents many different and difficult challenges. While these challenges are critical, look upon them as an opportunity to become an active participant in helping to improve the quality of life for all. I am confident that Medford High School has prepared you to handle some of our world’s most critical issues. By utilizing your expertise, energy and knowledge, you can help make the world a better place. As Americans we are blessed with much, and therefore, much is expected of us. We need your generation to make a positive impact upon our city, state, nation and yes, the world!

Use the diploma that you receive today as a stepping stone to your future. Remember so many young people around the world, especially young ladies, do not have the opportunity to go to school to help to better themselves. You should be proud to be an American and all that it affords you. Never forget it allows you to be anything you want to be. If you want to achieve something, it can be done. Sure, there will be roadblocks in life, but use those as motivation to keep yourself moving forward. Reach for the stars and dig deep within yourself and you will attain your goals.

All of you will be starting a new chapter in your lives as you enter college, the military, or the work force. The responsibility of making decisions is now yours, so make the right choices to help shape your future direction in life. Newscaster Tom Brokaw once stated: “You are educated. Your certification is in your degree. You may think of it as the ticket to a good life. Let me ask you to think of it as a ticket to change the world.” Now, more than ever, we really need you to become a beacon of light for the entire world.

Never forget that the blue and white of the Medford Mustangs will always flow within your veins. I believe it is called “mustang pride.” Whether home or away always keep that pride in your life and share it with others along the way by taking the time to volunteer for your favorite charity, coaching a youth team, or mentoring a younger student…find the time to participate, for it will enrich your life and the lives of those you touch.

You are off to a great start! May the future bring you much success and happiness in your chosen field. Thank you and God bless America!