RICHMOND — The 27 new graduates of Richmond High School left their small-town high school with big dreams and cherished memories.

Lindsy Hoopingarner, who plans to attend Thomas College to study business, choked back tears as she described being welcomed into the school and community when her family moved to Richmond when she was in fifth grade. She recalled experiencing the local tradition of celebrating state sports championships by having firetrucks lead the winning high school team in rousing parades around town. The class of 2012 played a significant role in many such championships.

“Since my sophomore year, I have competed in six western Maine championships and five state championships, winning three of them,” Hoopingarner said. “So yes, I’ve rode around the block a few times, being followed by most of the town in their cars, and firetrucks leading the way, while waking up the rest of the town. This doesn’t happen anywhere else, only in Richmond. When I first moved here in fifth grade, my family was once again the outsiders; and now this is the first place that I have lived that I have really felt like the people around me really know me. And these people are my family.”

Hugs, flowers and photographs were everywhere throughout Richmond High Saturday before, during and after graduation ceremonies.

The Richmond High School Madrigals sang two songs for graduates, including a rousing a cappella version of “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” which drew a standing ovation, as the madrigals’ three graduating singers took their bow.

Salutatorian Fiona Sterling, who plans to attend Hellenic College in Boston to study management and leadership, with a minor in history, urged her fellow graduates to find their vocation — which isn’t necessarily their job.

“We have these preconceived notions about careers,” Sterling said, “that we must know exactly what job we are going to have in 10 years, how much money we are going to be making; but we put so much emphasis on the what and never on the who. Who do you want to become? Not what you see yourself doing in 10 years, but who would you like to become as an individual. My wish for each of you is that you each find your true vocation and discover who you are meant to be.”

Valedictorian Rebecca Sweem told graduates they should persevere. She pointed to her mother, who she said had overcome discrimination against women in the work force while rationing an $80 weekly paycheck so she could pay her bills, even if it meant skipping meals to save money.

“We have been successful in making it through Richmond High School, and we all still have a long way to go,” she said. “Perseverance does not have to apply to just family issues, either. It can apply to perfecting your mile run, or a piece of artwork. It can apply to English or math. Do your homework. Practice. When you do not understand — ask. When you fall — stand up. Do not give up hope.”

Keith Edwards — 621-5647

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