ST. MARY’S CITY, MD — Students, family and faculty watched with eager eyes and digital cameras as 173 St. Mary’s Ryken High School Class of 2016 graduates crossed the stage for their diplomas.
The graduation ceremony was hosted Tuesday evening at St Mary’s College of Maryland’s Athletics and Recreation Center in St. Mary’s City.
This night marks the end of the fraction of their limitless lives, said Grace Goodley, Class of 2016 speaker. She will be attending the University of South Carolina this fall.
“Four short years ago we were freshman, weighted down by our backpacks. It was like high school would never end, but we stayed entertained with Epic Rap Battles,” said Goodley. “We’ve waited for the day almost as anxiously as we waited for Nacho Day. We’ve finally made it to graduation.”
The graduating class started from the bottom, but now they’re here, said Goodley.
“The past 12 years have led up to this moment, where we walk across the stage and finish high school. From here, we’ll move on to bigger adventures and greater challenge, but we’re prepared for it,” said Goodley. “Everyone in the class of 2016 has made an impact on each other, we are so blessed to have you and the entire St. Mary’s Ryken community in our lives and it begins with the school environment.”
At SMR, Goodley mentioned that students, staff and the community walk with Christ during their daily lives.
“Because SMR is a part of us, Christ will stand with us through every endeavor for the rest of our lives. This has more weight than our GPAs,” said Goodley.
Goodley then thanked teachers and parents for their contributions to the students and the community.
“They deserve more praise than we give them because they are our biggest fans,” said Goodley.
This is the last time the SMR class of 2016 will all gather in a room together, said Goodley.
“Sadly, the sinkhole has outlasted us. While we are the only class of 2016, that won’t be the only number we’ll be remembered by. Some of these graduates led the softball team to win 2 WCAC championships, and other nights successfully defended us in battles on Twitter. Some tested the uniform limits with hoodies, which some of you can still pick up tomorrow,” said Goodley.
Goodley asked the graduating class to remember high school memories such as their first homecoming, crazy spirit week, camo out games, and more.
“Never forget the safety of a crosswalk, or the dangers of hills at practice. Remember your prom, football games, sports seasons, and your first ride on Jay Jay’s golf cart,” said Goodley. “On this last day together, I hope we can remember all those memories and remember everyone who has touched our lives.”
Once the graduates cross the stage, gripping their diplomas, they will join those who have gone before them and serve as leaders for those who follow, said Goodley.
“Some will leave everything they’ve ever known to pursue a career, vocation, or dream. If you think nothing can beat high school, C.S. Lewis said there are far better things ahead than anything we leave behind,” said Goodley. “Millions of people would do anything to be in your place right now. We are called to put our best effort into everything. God and hard work are two things that will never fail you. Whatever you do, do it well.”
The athletic center was full of future engineers, business professionals and more, said Goodley.
“We have future doctors, nurses, lawyers, teachers, and parents here with us. Every single one of us will make a place in the world and right now we don’t know what this will be. May these few years ahead of us enlighten us to our purpose, make lifelong friends and unforgettable memories,” said Goodley.
She then asked the Class of 2016 to chase their dreams.
“If you fall short rest assured that you’ll still have followers on Instagram. Thank you everyone who has been a part of our journey, because we are blessed to have you in our lives. Class of 2016, go forth and set the world on fire. Go Knights, and God bless you.”
If community members missed the event, they can watch a recorded broadcast at the St. Mary Ryken High School website.
Contact Jacqui Atkielski at j.atkielski@thebaynet.com.
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