With inspirational words about “family, tradition, and faith,” Tarpon Springs Fire Rescue C
haplin, Tim Stevens, opened the 45th St. Petersburg College Fire Academy Graduation. The Ceremony was held in the Florida Room at the Allstate Campus, yesterday, January 7th, with the presence of 21 graduates.
Program Director, James S. Angle, introduced the distinguished guests and the graduates.
Class President, Michael R. Powell, talked about the sacrifices as well as the mental and physical challenges faced by each of the graduates; he emphasized that they were able to finish the program because they worked together as a group, not as individuals. Powell also thanked instructors, graduates, and squad leaders; and concluded his speech quoting American Author Napoleon Hill: “If you cannot do great things, do small things in a great way.”
Guest Speaker, Fire Academy instructor Louis Sclafani, reminded graduates about the importance of the Fire Fighter profession, stressing that it is, above all, a noble profession. And he finished his speech advising graduates “to be the best professionals they can be every single time they respond to an emergency.”
Program Director Angle presented the Class Awards, with highlights to class graduate Cecilia C. Trejo, recognized for her outstanding academic achievements. The Presentation of Certificates was conducted by Program Coordinator Gabrielle Bain.
In his final remarks, Director James Angle pointed out that the graduates “came in as individuals and came out as one team: Class 45;” and closed the Graduation Ceremony emphasizing the importance of constant training and studying in the Fire Fighter Profession.
Please view our Allstate Facebook Page to view other photos from the graduation and more information on other events happening on campus.
The next Fire Fighter Academy starts January 11th, 2016. Information about this exciting program and future sessions can be found at the St. Petersburg College website.
Congratulations Graduates!