Highlands celebrates graduating class during commencement ceremony
Highlands’ class of 2023 graduates entered quietly on Saturday morning, but they left with a roar.
For the graduates who were conferred their diplomas on a stage set up in the new gym, the commencement ceremony marked the closing of one chapter in life and the beginning of a new adventure.
Class of 2023 Salutatorian Luke Hartman made note of the impending life changes coming soon for him and his classmates during his opening address.
“Some of us will go off to a four-year university, some to a two-year college, and some straight into the workforce, but no matter what route we choose we will have a solid foundation built during our time at Highlands School,” Hartman said. “Einstein once said, ‘Everyone is a genius, but if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree it will live its whole life believing it is stupid.’ If you struggle to climb your tree in life, maybe it’s because you were born to swim.”
The senior class chose athletic director Brett Lamb to serve as the keynote speaker for the commencement ceremony.
Lamb recalled how much the world has changed since the class of 2023 entered school back in 2010. The President was Barack Obama, the top movie at the box office was Toy Story 3 and the number one song on the chart was “Not Afraid” by Eminem.
“For the parents in attendance today, I want to congratulate you on a job well done, because now your mission is over,” Lamb said. “Of course, these students will always be your children, and they will certainly call with questions about life, from how long to microwave Ramen noodles, to how to book a flight or rent a car, but you have given them the tools to be successful in their adulthood.”
Lamb drew inspiration from 2010’s top song to send the graduates on their way.
“I’m not afraid, to take a stand, everybody come take my hand, we’ll walk this road together, whatever weather cold or warm, just letting you know you’re not alone, holla if you feel like you’ve been down the same road,” Lamb said. “You are going to great things and I’m sure that success is waiting for you.”
Valedictorian Riley Conner delivered the farewell address and took time to recall how the COVID-19 pandemic shaped the class of 2023’s high school experience.
“Many of us in this graduating class have been classmates our entire lives, so adjusting to wearing a mask and social distancing was a challenge,” Conner said. “From teachers using pool noodles to make sure no one was within six feet, to learning remotely, we had to overcome a lot of challenges, but we did it and we’re here today.”
Following Conner’s remarks Highlands Principal Brian Jetter dismissed the class of 2023 to the world. David Parrish offered the benediction and Glenn Morris played “Gaudeamus Igitur” on the bagpipes for the recessional.