In a packed Triton Center, 206 NDA seniors walked across the stage to the cheers, applause and occasional drum roll.  President Tom Kiely introduced the graduation ceremony following mass led by Father Jordan Neeck, school chaplain.

Using the country western song “Mama, Don’t Let Your Children Grow Up to Be Cowboys,” the chaplain artfully encouraged parents and graduates to find “joy” in their lives and not settle for the “happiness” usually acquainted with money-making success in the world.

Ms. Andrea Hearden, veteran science teacher recently-named interim principal, served as emcee for the commencement with Principal Patrick Browne and Associate Principal Greg Masarik bestowing diplomas.