Somerville High School has produced numerous successful alumni. Today, I would like to shine a light on someone who has made and continues to make a notable impact on Somerville’s society. Susan Lacerda (age 57) was born and raised in Somerville and lives here to this day. I had the privilege of interviewing her and got to learn about her experiences both at Somerville High School and in the general town. When asked how Somerville has impacted who she is today, Susan had no hesitation in saying, “My blood runs orange and black,” showing her true passion for the town. She grew up involved in multiple volunteer organizations, such as Girl Scouts, constantly giving back to the community through projects and donations. Whether it was time, money, or simply attendance, Susan has shown up for all things ville countless times. As members of the community, we’re all well aware that SHS creates amazing memories for everyone involved in the school. When asked what her favorite SHS memory was, Susan described her time as the editor-in-chief of the Valkyrie during the 1984-1985 school year. She held the position of co-editor in her junior year and was selected as editor-in-chief in her senior year.
Mrs. Lacerda states, “It was a big commitment, and a huge honor to be a part of”. During that time the paper was physically printed monthly, and sold for twenty-five cents during homeroom periods. It is safe to say a lot has changed regarding the paper, but we are grateful for her contributions. While Somerville High School is an essential part of Somerville as a whole, it does not make the town what it is. The town has so much to offer outside of the high school. To Susan, the most rewarding part about the town is that she currently lives on the same street she grew up on, and her parents are right down the road in the same house they’ve been in for eighty years. Her daughter is the third generation to graduate from Somerville High School, and she’s as proud as ever!
Watching your child graduate from high school is an emotional experience for anyone, but having such a deep-rooted connection to the school made it even more special for Susan. She said, “ I felt immensely proud of her, and I loved watching Bridget get her diploma next to my parents because my mother got to see Bridget graduate from the same high school she went to as well.” Most people cannot even imagine how special that moment must have been.
Living in this town for over forty years, Susan knows it like the back of her hand. The only times she did not reside in Somerville were during the four years she spent studying at Wilks University in Wilksbury Pennsylvania and five years after college while working. I questioned her about ever leaving Somerville, to which she said, “ I don’t know. One day it was never, but now it depends on where Bridget lives after she graduates college”. I believe the desire to be so close to family is a core value in the Somerville community. This town can be described in so many ways. From close-knit and quaint, to fun and creative.
But when it really matters, Susan says Somerville is a “community that comes together in a time of need. Whether that’s a storm, fire, or anything, we’ve got each other’s backs. If there is a need for assistance or help, the community comes together, and I find that to be special”. I don’t think I could’ve put it better myself. Susan Lacerda stands for everything Somerville represents and has been such a key resident these past decades. Thank you so much for your time and consideration, Mrs. Lacerda. Go Ville!