PICTOU
Small but mighty was the theme of Pictou Academy’s 199th graduation ceremony Wednesday.
Thirty graduates accepted their diplomas and long list of prizes from a high school that has held strong in spirit during the last two centuries.
“We know Pictou Academy physically embodied its fifth building starting this past September, so congrats on being the first grad class following this transition. Pictou Academy has had its share of challenges over the years from structural fires, downsizing, numerous threats and closures and other changes,” said guest speaker Dr. Amanda Hill who graduated from Pictou Academy 17 years ago. “But we also know Pictou Academy is so much more than just a building which I know you guys have proved over the past year. The spirit of Pictou Academy has a storied past and all of these challenges have made that sprit so strong, so resilient over the last 202 years. Pictou Academy’s long legacy is rich in history, pride and honour.”
The two-hour ceremony included numerous prize presentations to graduate Peyton Briand who captured the Town of Pictou Gold Medal, Governor General Medal, Tupper Gold Medal and the Ian Wisener Memorial Trophy. She was also the recipient of a MacDonald bursary and numerous community bursaries and prizes and individual awards for high academic standing.
Erin MacMIllan was the silver medallist and recipient of a Scammell bursary and Emma Ruiz was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Medal as well as a Scammell bursary. Both women also received numerous community prizes and bursaries as well as highest academic standing in several courses.
Class Valedictorian Brady Kennedy, who shocked his fellow graduates at the end of his speech by cutting off his long hair while on stage, told this peers that they have shown reliance and spirit through their time at PA.
“Looking back at the road we have paved along the way, I have confidence we can take whatever life throws us,” he said. “When we stumbled we helped each other stand. When we achieved our greatest victories, we have felt support and encouragement from the bond of our friendships.”
He said Pictou Academy may be small in numbers, but what it lacks in numbers is made up in spirit. Kennedy said moving from the former Pictou Academy building to the new location this fall was not something the students wanted, but it didn’t change who they are.
“Undoubtedly, the heartache of our school being ripped away from us was our biggest obstacle to date and its loss will be felt for generations to come. The feeling of trudging up the stone steps is nothing to be compared to the worn wooden steps that were worked in by our parents, grandparents and even great-grandparents. However, I will say very lightly, it is a building. While the Academy holds many special memories and a dear place in all of our hearts, a building does not define Pictou Academy. It is the people inside of it.”
