East Amherst resident was 2007 St. Joe's valedictorian

Motz

St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute senior Brendan Motz of East Amherst is valedictorian of the Class of 2007.

Christopher Kopra of Depew was named salutatorian, and both gave commencement speeches during graduation ceremonies on May 24.

Motz has balanced academic excellence with leadership positions and extracurricular activities while a student at St. Joe's. He was president of the student council and also served as the director for the Kairos retreat program. He is a member of the National Honor Society, "Life Lessons," Food Basket, the University at Buffalo math program, Big Brother program and ski club.

He is also a member of St. Mary's parish in Swormville.

"I will definitely miss the sense of community that is present at St. Joe's. You spend four years in classes, cheering at sporting events and participating in activities with your classmates. Through these experiences, your classmates become your brothers," he said.

To the incoming Class of 2011 Motz advised, "There is a club for everyone here at St. Joe's, so get involved. This is the best way to make friends, and you will truly become part of the community."

He plans to attend the University of Michigan and major in business/finance.