The top three graduating seniors at Great Bend High School delivered brief commencement speeches Sunday, prior to 212 students receiving diplomas at Memorial Stadium.
Valedictorian Alec Witt encouraged his fellow graduates to, “Focus on what makes you happy, and spreading that happiness to others.”
Co-salutatorian Colton Lagerman had a list of suggestions for graduates “transitioning into a new part of our lives.” He reminded them to, “Have an open mind ... be honest (and) remember that freedom is earned and should never be taken for granted. ... Finally, whatever you do in life, have fun.”
Co-salutatorian Marissa Hoisington said, “If Great Bend High School has taught us anything, (it’s that) nothing is impossible.” After urging fellow graduates to, “never allow yourself to be satisfied with mediocrity,” she concluded, “We are the class of 2014, and we are just getting started.”
Class President Selam Caren Ball led the “Pledge of Allegiance” prior to the speakers.
Mother Nature also seemed to have something to say to the Class of 2014. The 25-mph wind kept students holding onto their mortar boards, and Assistant Principal Randy Wetzel found himself holding the hats of the speakers so they could deliver their addresses. But, 15 minutes after students entered to the strains of “Pomp and Circumstance,” played by the high school band, Wetzel had presented the graduates to members of the Great Bend USD 428 Board of Education, and board members began presenting diplomas.