by S. Rotan Hale
For some seniors graduation day is just another memory, for others it is that long-awaited day that marks their ascension to heights unimaginable.
Proudly 343 graduating seniors walked across the stage and received their diplomas Friday, May 27 during William Fleming High School’s (WFHS) 2016 commencement held at Berglund Center as hundreds of their family and friends watched and cheered.
Everyone could feel the incredible energy that permeated throughout the coliseum during the momentous event.
The program included several musical performances as the William Fleming Symphony Orchestra that added a classic touch to the preliminary processions.
Among those singing solos was senior Melissa Hartman whose hauntingly transcendent voice rang out through the auditorium as she sang an extremely moving rendition of Andra Day’s “Rise Up.”
Sitting on stage with the group of participating local officials were 13 “Distinguished Scholars” who were recognized as having maintained a GPA of 4.0 or higher.
Also honored were four students: Floyd Garner, Jr., Elisha Martin, Kenny Thai and Richard Warner who amazingly had perfect attendance throughout their entire school careers and were never late to any class. WOW!
School Superintendent Dr. Rita Bishop received a memento from the class for her years of service. During her speech Dr. Bishop focused on the host of accomplishments achieved by the WFHS Class of 2016 and urged students to give thanks to all the parents, faculty, counselors and administrators who contributed to their success.
“The truth is SOL scores have gotten better every single year (of the last 4),” she said commending the class.
“I honestly believe that no matter what folks say, this generation is smarter and better than any generation before us. I feel utterly safe and confident that America and the world is going to be just fine in your hands,” she said in closing.
‘“Everybody is a genius but if you judge a fish on its ability to climb a tree it will live its life believing it’s stupid,’” said Kelly Tran who delivered one of the most encouraging speeches of the program. Tran is a vibrantly poised young lady who perfectly suits her position as 2016 Class Valedictorian.
Her use of the timeless and eye-opening quote by Albert Einstein, posed a brilliant perspective for anyone experiencing feelings of inferiority–a condition to which Tran so obviously is the perfect antithesis of.
“Its our turn to showcase our abilities…I hope you follow your dreams, live up to your potential and change the world,” she added.
In a rousing address to his students WFHS Principal Archie Freeman energized the crowd of young scholars draped in blue and gold. Early in his speech he ordered students to “stand, look around the coliseum and give thanks to those who have supported you.” In accordance with that call, Freeman introduced his mother who was present for what was actually a graduation for him as well as he too was celebrating his 4th year as principal of the school.
“You have worked hard, you have taken on many challenges and changes but most importantly you have shown what it is to overcome the challenges to stand up and represent with Colonel pride,” he said prior to proudly rattling off an impressive list of accomplishments made by the Class of 2016.
“Whatever the next up is in your life, rise above every circumstance, step up and move into the next level with your head held high,” said Freeman who, making reference to the song earlier performed, boldly encouraged the graduates to “RISE UP!”
His final point was for grads to proceed with the mindset that “no one will deter you from your destiny…You have a plan for your life and you can accomplish your plan.”
Due to the inspiring presentations from each dynamic speaker, the program was incredibly uplifting and served as the perfect prelude as each graduate walked across the stage to be christened as an aspiring leader of tomorrow reaching for the sky.
