From left, siblings JoAnne, Ryan and Vanessa Fernandes each have earned the nod as valedictorian of a graduating class. Ryan is the most recent, at St. Angela Merici, where Vanessa ahead of him was also a valedictorian of the Grade 8 class. JoAnne, at university studying medicine, was valedictorian of her high school graduating class at Holy Cross Catholic Academy.
Vaughan
June 28, 2008 10:34 PM
Fernandes siblings have each had honour now
By: Alex Ritson
Joe Fernandes cannot be faulted if he takes a little extra pride in how his three children have fared in their education careers so far.
Both his daughters have been recognized as valedictorians of graduating classes in the past and now his son has earned the honour as well.
Three years ago, Ryan Fernandes celebrated the good fortune of his two older sisters, JoAnne and Vanessa as they graduated as valedictorians from Holy Cross Catholic Academy and St. Angela Merici, respectively.
This year, it’s Ryan’s turn to shine, graduating from St. Angela Merici elementary as valedictorian, just like his sister Vanessa did before him. The 13-year-old doesn’t take it lightly.
“I think it is a great honour to represent my school,” Ryan said. “At this moment of my life, I consider this to be one of my huge achievements.”
Mr. Fernandes describes his son as a well-rounded boy and believes the good conduct of his eldest daughter, JoAnne, has been an example for her younger siblings to follow.
“We’re blessed more than anything else,” Mr. Fernandes said.
JoAnne and Vanessa share dad’s pride in their brother’s recognition.
“He strives for excellence and I am glad to see that he has been recognized for his success,” said Vanessa, who is graduating high school next year.
“I am incredibly proud of my brother for having been selected as valedictorian,” said JoAnne, now 20 and pursuing a career in medicine.
Ryan added he is undecided about his future, but with an interest in both math and science he hopes to become a mechanical or electrical engineer one day.