On March 3, 2017, Cornell High School held it’s fourth naturalization this afternoon, formally welcoming newly confirmed citizens into the country. People from over a dozen different countries from around the world were in attendance, along with even more cheery family members. The ceremony, coordinated by Cornell’s Mr. Kris Hupp and Mrs. Megan Fuga, began around 1 o’clock. Students attending school this day were dismissed early to make their way to the Girl’s WPIAL Championship Game. 

The ceremony began with the viewing of a short film, Faces of America, a showcase of America’s landmarks, history, and welcoming of new patriots into the country. From there, attendees recited the national anthem and were seated. Principal Doug Szokoly welcomed everyone and began roll call by country. At least fifty new citizens stood together, representing their homelands. Todd Fine, USCIS Supervisor of Immigration Services Officer, administered the new citizens’ Oath of Allegiance. Attention then turned to Cornell’s own Kiara Clarit, with her speech titled What Citizenship Means. The ceremony’s keystone speaker, Shujiro Goto, then took the stand. He shared his story of coming to America, returning home, then returning to the states once more. On his second trip back to the states, Mr. Goto had filed for full citizenship and planned to spend the rest of his life in the U.S. Mr. Goto recalled that, throughout the entire immigration process, the most memorable moment was when he was greeted by an officer after landing in the states. After formal conversation and a check of Mr. Goto’s papers, the officer shook his hand and smiled, “Welcome home, Mr. Goto.” 

Finally, it was time for certificates to be presented to the candidates. Attendees lined up on either side of the stage and, one by one, everyone was called by name and received their certificates, as well as a small American flag courtesy of Cornell elementary students. Officers and Cornell speakers offered closing remarks and congratulations to the newly confirmed citizens. It didn't take long for families to flood the stage to take pictures with their certificates. Smiling, hugging, and some tears congregated into a prideful party on stage. Standing tall with certificates in one hand, American flag in the other, our new citizens were certainly happy to be home.