Saying “the future is ours”, Boyd Christian School Salutatorian Ashlyn Cooper encouraged her fellow graduates to strive to succeed as they continue pursuit of their life goals during her address at Boyd commencement ceremonies Friday evening at Central Church of Christ.
The Class of 2011 boasted 12 graduates including three members of the National Honor Society.
“I feel a great sadness that our time here is coming to an end but we are fully equipped for our future,” Cooper said, recalling her years at the school and their recent class trip to Europe. “As we close one chapter here, we are opening a new one. The future is ours.”
Cooper said the time she spent at Boyd will help her build a successful life and has left her with a lot of great memories.
“The memories and friendships will last a lifetime,” Cooper concluded.
Class Valedictorian Spencer Warren agreed with Cooper about her view of the future.
“Graduation is not about the past, it is about the future,” Warren said, noting the bonds made during high school were very important. “Without friendship, high school would be almost impossible to get through.”
Warren noted that things will not always go smooth and that is just part of life.
“If I learned anything in high school, it is that you will fail sometimes,” Warren said, noting keeping one’s eyes on God will help preserve a positive attitude. “When there are bad times, remember God is there.”
Boyd Head Master Bill Marquette served as keynote speaker and said he has set the bar high for the Class of 2011.
“I’m not hoping for success, I’m expecting success from each of you,” Marquette said.
Marquette noted it is important to stick to one’s ideals in life and not to let setbacks be a defeat.
“Live your dream. Don’t let anyone rob you of your dream,” Marquette said. “Find your dream and live it.”
Marquette concluded by telling the graduates to keep their eyes on their goals.
“I implore you to prepare yourself and never, never lose hope,” Marquette said. “And never lose sight of God.
Graduating with the Class of 2011 were Valedictorian Spencer Garrett Warren, Salutatorian Ashlyn Rose Cooper, Sara Marie Buckner, Braxton Allen Hillis, Curtis Robert Judkins, Zachary Michael McBride, Olivia Kathleen Newby, Hannah Noelle Powell, Zachary Jacob Rubley, Katherine Elise Sain, Parker Ryne Smith and Danna Sharae Wells.