Girard grads prove mettle

Girard Commencement 2009

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By Elise Franco

The key to success is hard work and not forgetting where you came from, said Girard’s 2009 valedictorians.

GIRARD — Students in Girard’s 2009 graduating class might be the poster children for overcoming classroom adversity, said Principal William Ryser.

Ryser said the 126th class to graduate from Girard High School has been at the forefront of excellence since beginning its journey four years ago.

“This is a class that has persevered,” he said. “They really overcame a lot of adversity and faced a lot of challenges in new student requirements.”

Ryser said the class set the pace for a state rating of excellent four years in a row.

“It’s due to their leadership,” he said.

Superintendent Joseph Jeswald said it’s because of the graduates’ ability to lead, that family, friends and Girard staff expect great things.

“As you close this chapter of your young lives, we’ll expect much more from you,” he said. “Do what you’re capable of doing, and your future is bright.”

Jeswald said poor economic conditions have been a hot commencement-speech topic all over the Valley, but graduating seniors shouldn’t dwell on the bad.

“With difficulty comes opportunity. Relish the opportunity,” he said. “Know we need you here, but wherever you go, we’ll support you, we’ll look out for you, because our future is in your hands.”

Jeswald gave seniors three pieces of advice to follow throughout the course of their lives: “Appreciate, respect and love your parents, make a difference and always strive to do what’s right, especially when you think no one is watching.”

Kelli Meigs, one of two class valedictorians, told her peers to work hard and never forget where they came from.

She said since kindergarten they’ve been taught they can do anything they want if they put their minds to it.

“We’ve become a family with a daily routine,” Meigs said. “As our lives change, don’t be afraid to take chances because in the back of your minds you’ll remember that little phrase from kindergarten.”

Valedictorian Anthony Chill said Girard High School has sent them into the world equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to be successful. He shared Meigs’ sentiments about remembering their roots.

“Nothing can ever change what we have always been, and always will be to each other,” he said.

Class president Jessica Fonce addressed her classmates last, adding to the positivity of the speeches before her.

Fonce said it’s possible to have dreams come true and to have everything you’ve always wanted for yourself.

Behind tears, Fonce told her peers she was proud to be a part of this graduating class.

“I wouldn’t trade my four years here for anything,” she said.

Fonce said though every senior earned the diplomas they held in their hands, graduation is really for their families.

“Without our loved ones you wouldn’t have made it,” she said. “For this we should be thankful.”

efranco@vindy.com