MECHANIC FALLS – Nineteen RSU 16 adult education students were honored at a cap and gown ceremony on May 30 for completing their high school goals.

More than 150 friends and family gathered in the Elm Street School gymnasium, as graduates marched to “Pomp and Circumstance” played by pianist Lindsay Cook.

Retired educator and former Director of Career Pathways for Central Maine Community College, Walter Ridlon, addressed the grads. He shared stories of courage and perseverance from the adult learners he has encountered over time, and he encouraged students to be proud, be kind and to learn something new every day.

Several graduates were recognized with specific awards:

* Tutor Terryl Jensen presented the 11th annual Central Maine Community College Courage to Grow scholarship to Rheeannon Bourget for three credits of fall tuition.

* Susan Lasselle and Katie Paiton presented awards to: Warren Greenough for perseverance, Richard Doak for transformation, Brian Stevens for overcoming obstacles, and Fred Strout for his determination.

Before receiving their diplomas from Superintendent Tina Meserve, graduates thanked family, friends and educators and presented them with a red rose.

Adult education director Jenny Rose encouraged graduates to continue their pursuit of lifelong learning. She quoted author and philosopher Henry David Thoreau: “What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals.”

The 2014 graduates are: David M. Baizley, Linda J. Barter, Rodney C. Bisbee Jr., Rheeannon L. Bourget, Joseph R.A. Bouthot, Brook M. Caron, Richard D. Doak, Nicholas P. Green, Warren J. Greenough, Kenneth E. Johnson III, Amanda P. Kuykendall, Tyler M. Mackey, Tayla M. Regalado, Robert R. Robichaud, Rick E. Rose, Ethan D. Sanborn, Brian L. Stevens, Susanna L. Straight and Frederick A. Strout.