Oliver Ames Class of 2013 Remembers Devin Ness

On Tuesday, June 18, 2013 the Class of 2013 dedicated the Metal Shop at Oliver Ames High School to the memory of their friend Devin Ness.  Friends and family of Devin filled the OAHS Library and Media Center for a brief reception and words of remembrance.  Principal Wes Paul welcomed the group and thanked all those in attendance as well as the individuals who worked to help make the naming a success. 

“When students from the Class of 2013 came to me with this idea, I was deeply moved and fully supported their plan.  When I presented the proposal to the Easton School Committee, they were unanimously in favor, and I would like to thank them as well,” said Paul.

Representing the Class of 2013 were Advisor, Megan Campbell; Class President, Nathan Faust: and Treasurer, Kristi Humphries.   Megan Campbell described her discussions with the Seniors about remembering Devin, and their investigation into the naming process at OA.  The Campaign for Oliver Ames High School and the Easton School Committee offers the opportunity to name available spaces at OA.

Nathan Faust spoke of how the idea for their gift was conceived.  “When we were trying to decide what to do for our gift, we knew we wanted to do something for Devin.  This naming will allow us to remember Devin here at Oliver Ames forever.”

Kristi Humphries shared their process for achieving their goal.  “Once we received approval from Mr. Paul and the Easton School Committee, all of our fundraising for the remainder of the year was with this gift in mind.  This included our carwash and the proceeds from our prom.”

The choice to name the Metal Shop was an obvious one for those that knew Devin.  Tom Baldino, the Metal Shop teacher who unveiled the Devin Ness plaque said, “He was here more than I was.”

The Ness family was deeply appreciative of the naming, which was announced initially by the Seniors during their Class Night ceremony on May 29 at OAHS where the Ness family was also present to award a scholarship in Devin’s name.  The Ness family extended a dinner invitation following the dedication to honor Devin and in gratitude to everyone.

The plaque remembering Devin reads “Classmate and Friend”, and it is clear that Devin Ness was truly a remarkable young man who touched the lives of all that knew him.  Devin is also remembered with A Day of Kind “Ness”, which was held this May with volunteers working on community projects around Easton.  A Day of Kind “Ness” will be an annual event.