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Graduates

Putnam Science Academy held its graduation May 14. Front to back – Jaheam Cornwall, Brandon Hurst, Tyreek Perkins, Saul Phiri, Kevin Smith. Courtesy photo.

 

 

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Special to the Putnam Town Crier

A former student and standout basketball player returned to Putnam Science Academy on May 14 to deliver the graduation speech for the 15th commencement ceremony in the history of the school.  The graduation was historic, as it was the initial commencement under the auspices of the ownership and administration of Dr. Tieqiang Ding, who purchased the school in September.

Jordan Butler, a graduate of the Class of 2014, returned to his alma mater and delivered the commencement address.  Butler, a Connecticut native from Hartford’s North End, will begin his junior year at Norfolk State University in September.

He’s the captain of the NSU basketball team and this past season was named the Mid Eastern Athletic Conference Player-of-the-Week three times.  Butler is majoring in sociology at Norfolk. 

“When I entered Putnam Science Academy I was a person trying to find my way in life.  With the help of the teachers and the encouragement of coach Espinosa I was able to take the core courses I needed and improve my academic standing.  Coming to PSA allowed me to receive a college scholarship,” said Butler.

Butler reminded the graduates to work hard and apply themselves in class and heed the advice of their teachers and coaches.  He noted that they would look back on their time at Putnam Science Academy as a place they’ll always consider home.

Headmaster Donald Cushing encouraged the graduates to look forward to the future with great anticipation as they’ll be part of molding not only their lives but in helping others.  He highlighted the many accomplishments of the Class of 2016, including their academic achievements, their community involvement and their outstanding basketball season.

The class featured seven graduates, Jaheam Cornwall, Yunus Demirkol, Hamidou Diallo, Brandon Hurst, Tyreek Perkins, Saul Phiri and Kevin Smith.  Valedictorian Demirkol was unable to attend graduation as he was in his native Turkey, where he anticipates acceptance into Bosphorus and Istanbul Technical University, his country’s top university.  He delivered his valedictory address to his classmates and the audience of approximately 100 via Skype.

“I’m very proud of my four years at Putnam Science Academy.  It’s provided me with a great academic foundation and allowed me to grow in so many ways.  College is only three months away and I’m looking forward to this next chapter of my life.  I wish I could be in Putnam to celebrate with you,” said Demirkol from Istanbul.

“I will never forget you guys.  I hope to see one of my teammates lifting the NCAA Championship trophy someday.  I am sure there is a successful path on your way if you keep working hard,” he concluded.

The ceremony, which was organized by Assistant Headmaster Owen Quantick, opened with the singing of the National Anthem by Putnam native Maurice “Moe” Coderre.  The welcoming address was presented by Ronald P. Coderre, an advisor to the administration.

“Remember, whether you realize it or not, you are models to others who are watching you and how you conduct yourselves.  As you move on in life give back to society rather than thinking what the world can provide for you,” said Coderre.

The graduation featured a brief film produced by graduating student Saul Phiri, highlighting the students’ year at Putnam Science Academy.  Phiri recently accepted a scholarship to play basketball at LaSalle University in Philadelphia.

The graduates participated in the traditional mortar board toss prior to the ceremonial graduation exit procession.  The graduates, faculty and staff and parents and friends joined in a celebratory cookout following the graduation ceremony.