Excitement, pride, nervousness, and even a twinge of sadness were just a few emotions used by many seniors to describe how they felt at graduation on Friday night.
“I thought a lot about what makes graduations different from other special events and I think it is the element of youthful hope that dangles from the tassels of our caps,” said valedictorian Jacquelyn Becerra.
Looking around Nunley Stadium during the ceremony, family, friends and teachers could be seen smiling at the animated young people in their caps and gowns. Some even wiped away tears as 390 seniors walked across the stage becoming WCHS graduates.
A special edition to the ceremony was recognizing military members and their families. During his introduction, WCHS graduate Fate Dickson prompted veterans of the audience to stand along with their families. Little did he know that one of them would be his brother U.S. Army member Michael Dixon, who surprised Fate after being stationed in Poland for the past year.
In her valedictory speech, Becerra urged the Class of 2019, along with the assembly of well wishers, to never stop learning, questioning, demanding or dreaming.
“Live with an open mind,” said Becerra. “Don’t worry about being right all the time. Worry about understanding. Not only will you have more fun but you’ll be the better for it, I promise.”
Both salutatorians also shared words of encouragement with their classmates. Makenzie Whitlock recounted the inspirational story of Job while Kailey Wood recited a Ralph Waldo Emerson quote.
“Everything he loved was taken from him in so short a time, his friends blamed him, and his wife encouraged him to “curse God and die;” however, what he didn’t know was that God was going to bless him immensely, beyond what he had before,” said Whitlock to encourage classmates when they encounter tough times.
Added Wood, “What lies behind us and what lies before us are small matters comparted to what lies within us. We must all look within ourselves for the drive, determination and persistence to excel in every situation we face.”
Director of Schools Bobby Cox said he hoped to instill in the grads a sense of self-assurance and confidence to carry them into their future.
“You have the world in front of you and can accomplish whatever you want, “said Cox. “Just be positive and you can change the world. You can work to have a good life for yourself while helping others along the way.”
A few highlights of the ceremony included a cover of “I Hope You Dance” by the WCHS choir along with a solo performance of “Wherever I Go” by Savannah Saylors.
