CENTREVILLE — Family, friends, staff, and distinguished guests gathered to the Queen Anne’s County High School field on a beautiful spring day in recognition of the graduating class of 2024 May 29.
Recognizing the outstanding achievements of the class through years of uncertainty, the now alumni face limitless opportunities ahead of them, including applying themselves to the work force, going into the military or continuing their education through college or trade schools.
Class of 2024 achievements also include numerous industry program certifications, scholarships and recognitions.
The inspirational legacy of the class of 2024 stands as,“The one that did not let Covid define your high school career,” Superintendent of Schools Patricia Saelens said.
Saelens encouraged the graduates to reflect on their times when there was overwhelming difficulties and to remember to embrace adversity to bring success.
“No matter where you go, no matter what you do, remember the tough times in high school and how you had to persevere,” she said.
Sealens challenged the graduates to take the “grit” they have learned throughout high school and take to heart there was nothing they could not accomplish in life.
Acknowledging it was okay not to feel ready, Class President Kenyon Smothers encouraged his classmates to remember what they have learned together, celebrate memories, and always continue to grow.
“This chapter may be over, but we have our whole lives to make more memories,” he said.
“We have spent the last four years waiting for this exact moment, the moment we are turning the page in a new and exciting chapter in our lives….This is just the beginning of another story,” Smothers said.
Salutatorian Emily Keppler noted the future was brightly laid out before the class of 2024, with pathways including vibrant careers, meeting new people, travels, education, or staying in the local area.
Keppler encouraged stepping out of your comfort zone to make new memories.
“You simply can’t take the time we have for granted and have to make an effort to enjoy the little moments because those are the moments you will never forget,” she said.
Through their endeavors, including spending their first year of high school learning online, the class of 2024 has learned to “adapt, be resilient, and support one another,” Valedictorian Madeline George said.
Acknowledging the fear of uncertainty outside of the familiar QACHS walls, “Let us carry with us all that we have learned from our past, continue to cling to the values we hold dear to us and not fear the newness that awaits us,” she said.
Valedictorian Elizabeth Oldfield recognized the class’s introductory high school experience was “anything but typical,” with online learning and the missing of several traditional milestones; but the growth and resilience undergone by the class has been a defining strength.
“The ability to face adversity in life is a skill that we’ve all gained and can continue to use in the coming years of our adult lives,” she said.
Keppler noted the support networks that have made it possible for the class of 2024 to achieve what they have and point the way forward.
There are shared memories that will never be forgotten and the connections of the QACHS community and peers have helped shaped graduates of who they are today and who they will become, Oldfield said.
Principal John Schrecongost proclaimed his sincere trust in the graduating class and on behalf of QACHS, voiced his appreciation for the leadership and conduct exemplified.
“We all are so very, very appreciative of the example that you have set that is extremely worthy of being followed,” he said.
Looking over the field of Lions — unique individuals all with their own high school experiences — Board of Education President Helen Bennett officially declared the them graduates.
“This first step with your newly minted diplomas is a great foundation to start building on,” she said.
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