MADISON — Madison Area Memorial High School graduated 60 students Friday in front of an audience that included U.S. Senator Susan Collins, family, friends and teachers.

Collins, who gave the keynote address of the ceremony, told the students that despite uncertainties they may have, it is possible for a person who grows up in a small town in rural Maine to succeed in the wider world.

Outfitted in blue and white robes, the students listened attentively in the school gymnasium as Collins, who was invited to the ceremony by class President Kristin Bishop, imparted her advice.

“There are some real advantages in having come from Maine, where I learned the values of hard work, integrity and self-reliance,” said Collins, who is from Caribou. “Growing up in the country taught me that I was responsible for my own actions, both in and out of the classroom.”

In her address, Collins cited examples of successful Mainers from some of the state’s smallest towns — Margaret Chase Smith from Skowhegan; Victor McKusick, a prominent cardiologist from Parkman; and Brian Butterfield, third base coach for the Boston Red Sox from Orono to name a few — to illustrate that it’s not where you come from but what you do that makes a difference.

She also brought up some of Maine’s most famous statesmen, including former U.S. Senator George Mitchell, of Waterville, and former Senator and Secretary of State Ed Muskie, of Rumford.

What all of these Mainers have in common, in addition to being from small towns, is that setbacks and failures were also part of their road to success, said Collins.

In 1994 Collins lost in a campaign for governor, finishing third of four candidates, but only to be elected to the U.S. Senate two years later. She is now serving her third term in the Senate.

“I achieved my dream of serving the people of Maine in elective office. So my advice to you is to pursue your dream, whatever it may be,” said Collins, who received three standing ovations during the ceremony.

Salutatorian Kirsten Wood echoed Collin’s message, saying that a small piece of history was being made with the graduation of her classmates.

June 6 has been the date of many important historical events, including the first flight out of sight of land in 1914, D-Day and the date the Beatles first met with their producer in 1962, said Wood.

“I have no doubt that in the years to come the graduates of this class will also make their mark on history,” she said.

Todd LeRoy, high school principal and superintendent for School Administrative District 59, recognized the parents of the graduating students and thanked them.

“Without you none of this is possible,” he said. “Without the nurturing and guidance, without the scolding and punishment, the group before you— and they’re an extraordinary group, would not be standing here.”

After the presentation of diplomas, Bishop gave a farewell address, reminding her fellow graduates to reflect on the wisdom they have gained over the last four years and carry it with them.

“I believe education goes beyond our classrooms and textbooks,” said Bishop. “Education is not something that ends at the end of the day or even upon graduation. As you take your education with you, I ask you to look backward before you look forward. Remember your roots, where you come from and what is important to you.”

Rachel Ohm — 612-2368

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