Debbie Blank
ST. LEON – East Central High School’s gym was packed Sunday, June 3, at 2 p.m. as parents in a special section waited for the 34th graduation processional. "I hope I don't cry," observed Bud Canterbury, West Harrison, waiting to see his youngest child, Kevin. "We're very proud of her," reported Rhonda Moorman, Sunman, of second child Anna. The honor graduate "has worked very hard. It's nice to see this chapter of her life close and (that she is) starting a new one."
According to Gary Mullins, Bright, "I'm about to bust out with joy and happiness." He is hopeful his youngest, Christa, a special needs student, will find steady employment.
Kim Walski, Lawrenceburg, was on the verge of tears. "My baby girl (Cassandra Ryan) is leaving" to pursue a fashion merchandising degree at Ball State University. "It's a very exciting time in her life." The wish of dad Keith Ryan, who had arrived from Discovery Bay, Calif., is "that she'll be happy."
Principal Donel Criswell asked the seniors to face left, announcing, “Mothers and fathers, I present to you the Class of 2007!” which was followed by extended applause. They also turned right as cameras of friends and relatives flashed.
The ceremony’s beginning had a patriotic slant. The principal noted, “We are fortunate to be living in a free society, a direct result of the men and women of the armed forces.” He asked veterans to stand, saying, “We are very grateful to you.” Then Criswell called for seniors joining the military to rise and nine did, about half of each sex. “We wish for each and every one of you a safe and successful career.”
Student body President Liz Record told fellow students, “We should remember that the word commencement means beginning. Today we begin another step toward our enlightenment. As you take these next few steps of this journey called life, never forget your roots of this place you call home.” She urged, “Continue to achieve your goals. Go after your dreams.”
Guidance director Jacqueline Blair introduced a record number of Indiana Academic Honors Diploma recipients, 110. Assistant principal Robert Shipley announced 29 honors graduates, who wore white cords around their necks for achieving grade-point averages of at least 3.8. Five students earned 4.0s, with a few doing even better – two with 4.1s and three with 4.2s.
Senior class President Karyn Powell referred to the class motto "seize the day.” According to her, “I believe that there is no more powerful message and no phrase more difficult to live by ... It is important to appreciate every moment while simultaneously preparing for your future. Don't be afraid to live in the moment, but, most importantly, never be afraid to go after something you want .... I am looking forward to seeing everything this class can accomplish.”
A chorus of about three dozen sang “For Good” from the musical “Wicked,” with the phrase, "I do believe I have been changed for the better because I knew you ..."
Criswell pointed out the classmates “have learned one of the greatest, most valuable lessons of life – that of adapting to change. The last three years they have survived the entire renovation and construction of the school," including changing location of lockers, moving to portable classrooms, dodging bulldozers and hearing "very distracting noises. Once you've learned to adapt to change, you are ready to start learning and growing.”
After the 13 rows of seniors received their diplomas from superintendent John Roeder, Criswell gave each one a red carnation, advising them beforehand, "Give it to someone who was instrumental in helping you be here this afternoon ... give them this carnation and a hug. You might get some money," which brought a collective laugh.
Attendees showed their elation as some of the 327 names were read and announced by a sign language interpreter with shouts, whistles, claps and squawks from noise blowers, some standing and shaking their fists. John Roeder kissed the cheek of his youngest child, Kimberly, when he handed her the coveted diploma.
After class officers retired the banner and had the new grads turn their tassels, instead of tossing their caps in the air, the young adults followed the school tradition of throwing beach balls around.
“I can’t wait to start my new life,” reported teacher-to-be Allison Yeager, headed to Ivy Tech at Lawrenceburg. After premed at Indiana University, Ian Daugherty’s goal is to become an orthopedic surgeon, while “making money” was on the mind of Lydia Mahaney. Future Web designer Lauren Gramman wants to “be successful – just be happy.”
Debbie Blank can be contacted at (812) 934-4343, Ext. 113; or debbie.blank@ batesvilleheraldtribune.com. To comment on stories, visit batesvilleheraldtribune.com.
