SANFORD — Graduates dressed in red and white gowns milled around Sanford Veterans’ Memorial Gymnasium and the field at Cobb Stadium Friday evening, hugging, posing for photos, taking selfies, and reviewing memories – and making more.

Around 240 Sanford High school seniors marked the end of their high school careers and the beginning of new adventures at commencement, held inside the gym amid the early threat of rain.

Outside, before Sanford High School Band’s rendition of “Pomp and Circumstance” drew them inside, graduates chatted with friends and family, happy and excited to be ready for the world.

“Its a good day,” said Zachary Kang, who is off to the University of Southern Maine in the fall and is exploring three majors, exercise science, physical therapy and occupational therapy. “I am very proud of everyone, and I will miss them,” he said.

“It’s bittersweet,” said graduate Hannah Rossignol of graduation, who plans to study occupational therapy at the University of New Hampshire.

“I’m excited,” said Linsday Howes, who plans to attend cosmetology school.

Courtney Grant plans to attend York County Community College in the fall, but her major is undecided – right now, she plans to continue doing what she enjoys best – showing her American saddle-bred horse, Gina.

Olivia Nicholson and Candace Sapiel both chose the U.S. Army – Nicholson is off for basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina at the end of July, while Sapiel departs for basic a month later. Nicholson said she went for early training and liked the camaraderie. Sapiel comes from a long line of those who have served in the military. She said she hopes to be based in Japan one day.

“I will miss everybody,” said Dyllan Waterman – a sentiment echoed by many.

It was a hopes and dreams evening – with some advice and laughter thrown in for good measure.

Salutatorian Rebecca Campbell reflected on childhood desire to always be older.

“We were always desperate to grow up, to go to that first dance, to get our driver’s license,” she said.

She urged her fellow graduates to appreciate the present and to enjoy memories.

“Let us live with a child’s perspective, always ready to try new things,” Campbell said.

Valedictorian Matthew Webber told his fellow graduates not to be afraid to fail.

“When you fail, don’t focus on the negative,” he said. “Buckle up, and buckle down.”

He thanked parents and faculty for all their work.

“Sanford has given us a solid foundation,” Webber said.

SHS science teacher Scott Keeney in a series of anecdotes, kept the students laughing, and at times, tears beckoned.

“Wherever you go, I think there’s always a spot in your heart for your hometown,” he said. “Its time for you to fly, little birdies.”

— Senior Staff Writer Tammy Wells can be contacted at 324-4444 (local call in Sanford) or 282-1535, ext. 327 or [email protected].