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Pomp, circumstance and pride fill Liberty ceremony
LIBERTY
Liberty High School graduated 110 seniors Friday evening with all the pomp and circumstance befitting them.
Proud family and friends crowded the stands at the high school stadium in the evening’s muggy heat.
Speakers, including class president Fred Clark, salutatorian Jacob Schriner-Briggs and valedictorian Sara Esmail reflected on their four years in high school and reiterated a common idea: No matter where members of the class of 2012 go, they’ll never forget their high-school years.
“It’s a night of smiles and even a few tears,” Clark said as he welcomed the class. “It’s our night to stand proud.”
Clark said the legacy of this year’s graduating Leopards is perseverance.
“We made the best of each situation,” he said. “And every one of our class will continue to do this.
“The potential of the graduates here tonight is boundless,” he added.
Clark had some practical advice for the seniors as they set out into the world.
“Lock your valuables away in your dorm room,” he said. “If you set your cup down, don’t come back to get it,” he joked. “And if it feels like a block of gold and it looks like gold, congratulations. You just found gold.”
“We did it,” said Schriner-Briggs as he took the podium. “It’s our milestone. Four years, soon to become the fondest in our memories.”
“Don’t let the status quo limit your potential,” he said. “You’ll be called upon to make the world different.”
Schriner-Briggs said that the graduates’ time as adults is beginning.
“The show is going on,” he said, a reference to the class song, “The Show Goes On” by Lupe Fiasco. “But I will never forget this day and I will never forget you.”
Esmail said that of all the memories the graduates have, the value of their education will be foremost.
They may not be able to name the five richest people in the world, she said.
“But if I asked you to name five teachers who made a difference in your life, or a few people who made you feel special, you would answer without hesitation,” she said.
“I hope you are ultimately happy in life,” she said.