By DAVE SCHULTZ
The graduation ceremonies at Southern Wells High School Sunday had equal measures of many things — sunshine, strong breezes, hugs, and congratulations. What was present in abundance was happiness, and mirth.
Fifty-one seniors and their friends and families gathered at Carnes Field for commencement. Principal Kim Conner regaled those in attendance about what she would remember about the Class of 2023 — about the student who would be principal, another student who’d parked his vehicle where it didn’t belong, and the members of the anatomy class who invited her along for a show and tell episode that included a significant amount of odor.
As the students walked across the bleachers to receive their diplomas, there were rehearsed bits with faculty members, confetti cannons were set off, and one student even asked if he could make an announcement. He was gently urged to keep moving.
There was much to be proud of, too.
“Seniors, we are proud of you,” Superintendent Trent Lehman said. “We are excited for you.”
Several members of the class finished with grade point averages of 3.5 or over. The chase for valedictorian and salutatorian went down to the last day, and Meet Patel and Zoe Needler were announced as the recipient of those honors Sunday.
“Now as we prepare to embark on the next phase of our lives, it is important to remember that the road ahead will not be easy,” Patel told his classmates. “There will be moments of uncertainty and doubt. We must continue to believe in ourselves and our abilities.”
Needler quoted Mr. Rogers’ line about “look for the helpers” as she began her remarks.
“As I look around I can see so many of these helpers — people who got me through these tough times and helped us come out stronger and better,” she said. “There is a plethora of talent and drive in our class. Let’s head out into the world and do things that last longer than a moment, the sort of things that build legacies … I challenge you to look around and see the helpers.”
Three other students — Zoey Solga, Jadyn Yencer, and Eve McElhaney — were also in the chase for the top honors, as all had GPAs of over 4.0.
The class motto was “Together we have experienced life. Separately, we will pursue our dreams. Forever, our memories will remain.” The class colors were silver and blue/red, and the class flowers were blue and white carnations.
Solga was the senior class president, Yencer was the class vice president, Emily Scott was the treasurer, and Hailey Duncan was the class representative. Mark Gates and Annette Thompson were the graduation sponsors.
daves@news-banner.com
