Carbon Career Technical Institute held its commencement ceremony at 7 p.m. Thursday at Jim Thorpe Area High School.

Diplomas were awarded to 101 students who tossed their caps at the culmination of the ceremony.Charles Trovato was the valedictorian for the Class of 2014.In his speech, he looked back on memories over the years at CCTI, and both the students and the audience erupted with laughter at his recollection."Now that we are entering a new chapter in our lives, I hope you remember these good times when you encounter hardships along the way," Trovato said.Janai Kerr was the salutatorian, who also addressed her class's sense of humor."One key part of our strong sense of class unity comes from our simple ability to laugh and make fun of our own mistakes, and of course, each other," Kerr said.Class President Lauren Tompkins also spoke on behalf of her class, thanking CCTI's instructors for their help."Entering the real world seemed so scary, but our technical teachers have prepared us for this day," Tompkins said.She ended her speech with confidence, now that the day has finally come."After today, we finally enter the real world, eager, excited and prepared," Tompkins concluded.