PEMBROKE — Before they walked across the stage to accept their high school diplomas, members of the Pembroke Academy Class of 2012 raised a fist in the air in solemn tribute. On each wrist was a bracelet commemorating a fallen classmate, a reminder of how important togetherness is in times of tragedy.

The ceremony was dedicated to Marisa Gray of Chichester, who passed away as a result of injuries sustained in a car crash just after the start of her freshman year at Pembroke. In class president Jennifer Currier's address to the class, she said one of the attributes that impressed her most about the group was its strength to battle adversity.

“Our strength allowed us to push through sadness and embrace the situation,” Currier said. “I'd like to applaud my classmates for showing such courage and would like to remind you that right now, Marisa's smiling face is with us, and has been for the last four years.”

Though the tragedy that hung heavy over the class is still prevalent in the graduates' minds, the accomplishments and achievements of the 181 students dressed in green and white caps and gowns was a cause for celebration. Salutatorian Jonathan Goodnow addressed his classmates with a message that no matter how insignificant a task may seem, when a complete effort is put forth, that task immediately takes on meaning.

“Throughout your lives, you will have moments of triumph in what you put in a substantial amount of effort,” Goodnow said. “If they don't seem like they're worthwhile, make them worthwhile.”

Following Goodnow, valedictorian Alycia Abbott said she had never had a fear of public speaking until that very moment. But as she fought to hold back tears as she addressed her classmates who would be assembled as a group for the final time, she reminded them that although their high school years were over, there's always an opportunity for growth.

“Learn from your mistakes and learn from your failures, but learn from your successes, too,” Abbott said. “And remember, you are a graduate of Pembroke Academy. So when life presents you with challenges, don't just tackle them. Spartan-kick them.”

Senior class advisor Matthew Dion and Headmaster Michael Reardon were the faculty members addressing the graduates. Dion encouraged the class never try to find the quick and easy way out of life's problems, but instead to productively work through challenges.

Dion's message was backed with a story about a college professor giving a final exam to his class. The professor told the class that anyone who opted out of the test would be given a B grade for the year. Many students left but a few stayed behind. The professor told those students he was happy they believed in themselves and said they could have an A.

“Have faith in yourself don't take the easy way out,” Dion said.

Finally, Reardon explained the reasoning behind the many years and academic rigor that graduates were subjected to. He said just as you would exercise any muscle, the brain needs to be exercised to be prepared for the challenges that await after high school.

“School is a fitness center for the cultivation and development of the mind,” Reardon said. “We need to use minds to learn about our world and our place in it.”

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Cory Francer may be reached at cfrancer@newstote.com.