As the Lakeridge High School Symphony Orchestra performed the iconic graduation melody of “Pomp and Circumstance,” members of the class of 2024 strode into Rolling Hills Community Church on Friday, June 7 to receive their diplomas.
Associated Student Body President Michael Shin welcomed families and friends to the ceremony and honored an underrated but important part of school in his speech: friendship.
“I never really had one true best friend growing up and I never really thought I needed one to begin with, but, honestly, I will tell you that you will never know what you’re missing out on until you have a friend who knows absolutely everything about you,” said Shin. “The single most important piece of advice I received from him is to lead with love, always.”
After Shin opened the ceremony, Principal Desiree Fisher spoke before introducing the student speakers. The class of 2024 began high school online due to COVID-19, which made the transition less of a shout and more of a whisper.
“I hope you realize each step you have taken along the way has prepared you for the next step and the step after that, and the step after that. We’ve worked hard packing your bags with knowledge and skills for every possible challenge you may face in the years to come. You’ve been gathering traveling companions in the form of friends and peers who will be there to share those new experiences,” said Fisher.
Before the student speakers began, the LHS Symphony Orchestra performed “American Landscape” by Soon Hee Newbold.
“It only takes the blink of an eye and everything changes,” said Ayse Bakircioglu. “When asked what my favorite part of my high school experience was, my answer is the smiles. Walking into school at 8:20 every morning is no easy task for a teenager, but being welcomed at the door by a smiling face and then again, as soon as I walk into my classroom, is a comfort like no other.”
Student speaker Jane Dakin covered many of the class of 2024’s accomplishments in her speech, including the boys soccer and girls water polo state championships.
“We came in quietly as the world was being thrust into chaos,” said Dakin. “But I think we’re leaving pretty loud.”
Another accomplishment by the class of 2024 was mentioned by the final student speaker Taliya Greenfield.
“With the help of our support systems, we have grown and achieved a lot, but we still have a taste for rebellion. So back to numbers: Let’s give it up for a groundbreaking number of absences and tardies,” said Greenfield. “Way to make history guys! However, our absences and tardies are indicative of just how excited we are for the next chapter — we literally can’t sit still in our seats.”
Since 1997, the graduating class of seniors at LHS has selected a teacher to be presented as the honorary graduate. This year math teacher Eli McElroy was selected for the honor.
“This class and I became Pacers at the same time, so it feels very fitting that I get the privilege of being named honorary graduate at the same time that they are finishing their high school journey,” said McElroy.
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