Despite the weather forecast, members of the Class of 2009 had a warm send-off on Friday, June 19, as parents, relatives, friends and teachers looked on under clear skies.

The 147 graduating seniors received their diplomas on the sun-soaked Pelham High School athletic fields amid calls to both embrace the future and hold on to the past. Salutatorian Gina Guimond called on her classmates to remember those who had helped them pass through the obstacles and overcome the challenges on the path to graduation.

“Not all of our successes have come easy. We all owe many things to those individuals who guided us along the way,” said Guimond. “Four years ago, we walked into high school as scared little freshmen. Now we’re leaving as adults ... Our journey together is just ending, but a new one is beginning.”

Valedictorian Cassandra Costello echoed Guimond’s sentiments, urging her classmates to remember all the individuals who offered help and wisdom during the trials and tribulations of the years leading up to their graduation.

“Look at these people who have helped make all of this possible. Think of all the times they were there pushing us.” she said. “These people have taught us a lot. Be that motivational voice in somebody else’s life.”

Costello also called on her classmates to follow their dreams.

“Don’t ever forget your dreams. Figure out your passions,” Costello said. “Here’s to hoping none of us fail.”

Class President Christine Downs urged her fellow graduates to seize the day, for every day of their lives from high school on forward. Though they have spent much time looking to the future, Costello told her classmates to change their focus to the present and put worries about tomorrow and regrets from yesterday aside.

According to Principal Dorothy Mohr, the members of the Class of 2009 set a school record for the highest number of students to take advanced placement classes during their high school career. As a whole, the group earned 906 college credits before graduation, she said. Mohr also recognized Nathaniel Libby, Ryan Daigle and Joseph Doyon for entering the armed forces upon their graduation.

“You have learned to accept responsibilities for your actions,” Mohr told the graduating class of seniors. “Now put action and motion into your dreams.”