TOWSON, MD (June 1, 2010) - Bel Air High School held their commencement exercises on June 1, 2010, which marked the first class to graduate from the new building. Speakers included local and state politicians, school officials, students, and Oak Contracting's vice president and CFO, Dave Rosas, also a 1977 alumnus.

Although Rosas was quite nervous, as public speaking is not something he does often, he was thrilled by the prospect of the honor. He was invited to speak by the principal, Joe Voskuhl. “When he first asked me, I was nervous and excited at the same time,” Rosas explained. “When the formal letter came, I was asked to be the Alumnus of the Year, which seemed like more than ‘just say a few words'.” Bel Air High has a tradition of not inviting keynote speakers, which allows for more students and an honored alumnus to participate in the commencement exercises.

When inquiring about a topic for his message, Voskuhl suggested that Rosas somehow tie in his time at the high school with the fact that he now worked for the company that built the new school. “My message was simple – don't just exist in your life but live your life. I told about my existence since I left Bel Air High School and then tried to point out the differences between that simple biography and the way I have lived my life,” stated Rosas.

“Joe also told me that my wife, Jeanne, could sit on the stage with me. Thank goodness for that. She was working hard to settle me down, through the time and sweat. It turns out that I was the last speaker, right before the distribution of the diplomas. When I was introduced, it was a surreal moment. As I got to the podium, all eyes in the place were on me. I'm sure that there were more than 2,000 people.”

To accommodate all of the graduates and their guests, the main stage was set up in the gymnasium and the exercises were broadcast through closed circuit to a large screen in the auditorium, where Rosas' parents viewed the event. His sister also attended and watched in person from the gym.

“It was a wonderful, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Although I was extremely nervous, I'm glad I had the opportunity. I look forward to obtaining the DVD and having my friends make fun of me.”