HAVERHILL — Kelly Wilkins never expected her rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" to be almost cut short by a microphone malfunction. But rising above the setback, she let her own powerful voice carry the national anthem to the farthest reaches of the Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School gymnasium with an improvised solo.

Dreary weather forced the commencement indoors, but each award and diploma brought forth air horns, cowbells and cheers.

More than 234 graduates received their diplomas Thursday for both their academic and trade skill proficiency. In addition, more than 60 students were presented with scholarships and awards.

"It's exciting, but it feels like a dream," Brianna Kelly of Methuen, a graduate of the health occupations, said before lining up for the procession. She plans to attend Northern Essex Community College in the fall in pursuit of a nursing degree.

Christopher George, a carpentry graduate from Salisbury, was similarly excited but exhausted.

"You're looking forward to this moment your entire life," he said.

Alexander Laskiewicz, an electrical technology graduate from Amesbury, said that he was saddened over leaving Whittier.

"I can't forget about the teachers here," he said.

Katherine Craven, the executive director of the Massachusetts School Building Authority, served as the commencement speaker. Imparting her advice in a succinct speech, she noted that no job is too small to not gain a life lesson from and that questioning is the greatest tool individuals have for learning.

"I encourage you to keep asking questions," Craven said. "Don't stop until your curiosity is satisfied."

She also encouraged students to continue striving for bettering themselves and the world around them.

"Stand for excellence. Never accept second best in anything," she said. "You should be proud to be a part of Massachusetts' best kept educational secret."

Dina Cordeiro, a graphics graduate and Haverhill resident, served as the class president for the final time by presenting the graduation address.

She noted the struggles and triumphs the Class of 2009 faced over its four years at Whittier, laughing at the awkwardness of their freshman year to praising each member of the class for finding new ways to challenge themselves as seniors.

"We were determined to make these the best four years of our lives," she said.

She also noted that the Class of 2009 was the first to host a spirit week in several years.