Whittier Tech's Opening and Closing Ceremony Team of SkillsUSA is a 7-member group that performs a scripted, formal presentation to demonstrate teamwork, public speaking skills, and knowledge of the SkillsUSA organization and emblem. The ceremony team represents the core values and professionalism of SkillsUSA, as well as possessing an understanding of leadership roles and symbolism in the organization.
On May 17th, the team is placing flags on the graves of 180+ veterans buried at Greenwood Cemetery on East Broadway, and they will be participating in the annual Haverhill Memorial Day parade on May 26th.
Let's meet this year's silver medal-winning team:
Adrianna Alvarez is an 11th-grade CAD student who lives in Haverhill with her parents, Shannon Ovington and Christopher Fernandez. This is her second year as a member of the O.C.C. team, and she is serving as “President” for the 2024-25 school year. In discussing why she is involved in SkillsUSA, Adrianna shares, “I take part in SkillsUSA because it’s more than just a competition—it’s a movement that builds confidence, character, and career-ready skills. I believe SkillsUSA helps shape future leaders by encouraging responsibility, teamwork, and a strong work ethic, all while giving students like me the chance to apply what we’ve learned in real-world scenarios. My experience with SkillsUSA has helped me grow not only as a student but also as a person, teaching me the value of professionalism, perseverance, and pride in my work. SkillsUSA creates a powerful environment where students are inspired to reach their full potential and truly prepare for life after graduation. It’s an organization I’m proud to be part of because it pushes me to be the best version of myself.”
Grace Hinds, a 9th-grade CAD Drafting student and the daughter of Daniel Hinds and Natalie McCollum of Haverhill, is serving as Vice-President of the team. Grace explains, “Joining SkillsUSA has been an incredible experience, and I have learned so much about public speaking, leadership, and work ethic. The OCC team at Whittier is full of incredible and dedicated people that I love being around, and I would not trade the experience for anything.”
Estephanie Hernandez, an 11th-grade Health Assisting student, is the daughter of Guadalupe Hernandez and Ubence Garza of Haverhill. She is a licensed CNA and also a co-op student working at Masconomet Healthcare Center in Topsfield. This is Estephanie’s first year as a member of the O.C.C. team, holding the position of “Secretary.” She shares that “being involved in SkillsUSA has helped me build new connections, improve my communication skills, and grow professionally. This opportunity SkillsUSA has given me is helping me continue developing skills in a real-world setting.”
Katherine Tunay, daughter of William Tunay of Haverhill, is a 10th-grade student in Electrical. She is serving her second year as a member of the O.C.C. team and is currently the “Treasurer.” Katherine shares “I’m so glad that I became an active member of SkillsUSA because it’s a powerful organization that helps students develop leadership qualities and different skills which are needed for success in the workforce and beyond. It offers a comprehensive approach to career and technical skills, personal skills, and workplace skills. I love that SkillsUSA provides opportunities and a supportive environment for students to grow, learn, and thrive, fostering a sense of community and belonging.”
Marco Moscardini, the son of Kary and Matthew Moscardini of Haverhill, is a 10th-grade Dental Assisting student. This is Marco’s first year on the O.C.C. team, and he is serving as “Parliamentarian.” When asked what SkillsUSA means to him, Marco replied, “SkillsUSA is a truly great organization, and I appreciate the opportunity to participate in the 2025 state conference. I'm really excited to represent my school! I like being involved in SkillsUSA because it's a great way for students to prepare themselves for their careers. I've left every event feeling inspired and ready to take on the future. I love seeing people getting into the spirit around this time. SkillsUSA has given me some really amazing opportunities and a great team to work with.”
Shealeigh Sullivan, the daughter of Kenneth and Katrina Sullivan of Haverhill, is an 11th-grade CAD Drafting student and a second-year member of the O.C.C. team, currently serving as “Reporter.” She is an avid reader, writer, and a black belt in karate, and enjoys volunteering her time to help others. “I am a member of SkillsUSA not just because of the competition, but because I am given the opportunity to grow as a person and a productive citizen. I always enjoy a friendly competition, and Skills has provided a place for me to showcase my skills. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a participating member of SkillsUSA!”
Joseph Parisi is a 10th-grade student in Advanced Manufacturing and a second-year member of the O.C.C. team serving as “Historian.” The son of Karry and Ron Parisi of Haverhill, Joey is an active SkillsUSA participant. Joey recognizes that “SkillsUSA assists students in developing increased self-confidence and motivation, a strong sense of pride and professionalism, along with opportunities to give back to the community through service projects.”