'Chase Your Dreams,' Valedictorian Tells Class of 2013

West Orange High School celebrated its commencement ceremony for the 493 seniors in the class of 2013 Monday night in Codey Arena.

Valedictorian Rene Chalom told his classmates to be unique, pursue their dreams and not to fold under the pressures of society puts young adults as they get older.

"Don't be just another blue cap and gown," Chalom said. He stressed the importance of taking risks to enjoy life in a story where he bought lunch for a homeless man in Newark last year.  

He added, "Sometime we need to take a few steps outside out comfort zone to achieve our potential."

The graduating seniors told Patch they were excited to head off to across the country.

Salutatorian Daniel Campbell joked about being honored with an award where he had to do more homework then give a speech to more than 2,000 people. 

"We did it," Adiam Ghebre exclaimed in his speech to the class of 2013 and those in attendance. 

"Rock on graduates," Jesse Lab said before he led the arena in the Pledge of Allegiance with Kristie Keleshian.