Robert L. Petrillo, Westbrook: What makes a memory that lasts years after graduation?

Annunziata Graziano, Brunswick: Putting on my cap and gown to cross the stage of life

Bill Nemitz: Life was always tough, but she proved tougher

Think kids have it too easy these days? This one didn't.

Todd R. Nelson, Penobscot: ‘Really educated people’ learn wherever they are

J. Lauren Sangster, Portland: Springtime ceremonies, a ‘graduation’ and a fancy hat

Candy Guerette, Topsham: A diploma for the happiest voice in the choir

Marcus Ratz: Massabesic High School

He continued to excel academically and volunteer in the community after his father died of a heroin overdose during his junior year.

Epilala Tauwala: South Portland Adult Education

Four years after dropping out of Deering High School, she's heading for her ancestral lands to learn more about her roots, high school equivalency credentials in hand.

Sophie Magadieu: Falmouth High School

A tireless advocate for LGBTQ youth, Magadieu has overcome personal challenges to deliver countless presentations at schools, conferences and businesses.

Cecilia Kusturin: Baxter Academy for Technology and Science

A national-caliber athlete, she'll be a member of the Senior Varsity/Team USA-qualifying synchronized skating team at Adrian College in Michigan.