By Cadeem Harris ‘17
The 16th Annual Celebrating Excellence in Education event saw Siena’s own Adam Casler, Director of Community Living, serve as the keynote speaker. The ceremony recognizes graduating high school seniors who have earned the privilege of being named valedictorians, salutatorians, or are receiving various other high honors from their institutions.
This annual event is hosted by New York State Senator John Bonacic as a way to celebrate the achievements of local high school students and encourage others to strive for these same achievements.
“It was an honor to be asked to present. It was a great opportunity to be able to share some general words of wisdom and advice with an outstanding group of students,” said Casler.
Casler’s fellow keynote speaker Johanna Duncan-Poitier, Senior Vice Chancellor for Community Colleges and the Education Pipeline, encouraged students to use their education to identify their passions in order to make a difference, however possible.
Casler was aware that the students, being high school seniors, likely still had concerns about what their upcoming college years will hold for them. Keeping that in mind, he explained that it is common for students to be unsure of their futures, but that they should look forward to the endless possibilities.
Much of the advice he gave to the soon to-be college freshman echoes the information he provides at Siena admissions events.
"If ever there was a time in your life to not be 100% certain, now is the time. This is a time for new beginnings, a fresh start as you head out on your own, and for taking chances. There will be struggles along the way, but continued hard work will yield big results as you move forward."
