The 163 graduates participating in the 53rd Patrick County High School (PCHS) Commencement Exercise on Friday, May 19, were directed to “be kind to ourselves and others” as they bid farewell to their high school career.
The directive was from Senior Class President Mia Min Jing Stowe.
Stowe also noted seniors’ high school careers went by fast, just like their parents told them it would.
“I hope each one of you soaked up the amazing memories made throughout our time together. Can you believe it,” she asked. “Five years ago, we were the nervous greenies walking the halls and now we are accomplishing an early life milestone.”
The one thing every senior can agree on is that they did not get to their graduation day by themselves, but rather had help from countless other people, Stowe said.
“Whether it was our friends, parents, or teachers, somewhere along the way, we received help. Whether we knew it or not, it is to these people who we need to express our gratitude. They have been here for us and taught us countless lessons to help us grow into who we are today,” she said.
Stowe said growing up is a journey everyone must take and lasts a lifetime.
“It is a journey that is filled with ups and downs, twists and turns, and unexpected surprises. But it is also a journey that is full of wonder, discovery, and growth,” she said. “After this point in our lives, we will continue to learn more about ourselves and the world around us.”
Stowe said graduates will discover their passions, what they are good at, and what they wish to do in the future – but that process may be hard-fought.
“Growing up is not always easy. There will be times we feel lost, confused, and uncertain,” she said. “During these difficult times, we learn that we have family and friends who love and support us, and we can always turn to them for help.
“As we grow up, let’s remember to be kind to ourselves and others,” she said.
Other senior speakers included Elian Lee Pendleton, president of the Student Government Association (SGA), and Emma Grace Nickelston, vice president.
Another senior, Braedon Joshua Augustine, performed the class song “You’re Gonna Miss This,” made popular by Trace Adkins in 2008.
PCHS Praise and Worship Team member Isaac Reese Wood presented the Reflection portion of the program and Senior Class Vice President Hagen Rick Murphy led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Hope Perry, PCHS principal, said the 163 graduating seniors accomplished some outstanding academic achievements while at the high school, “and their futures look very, very bright.
“We have a variety of classifications of diplomas given. We have 61 of our seniors who will receive Advanced Diplomas, 94 will receive Standard Diplomas and eight of our seniors will receive Applied Studies Diplomas,” she said.
Twenty-nine seniors were awarded the Governor’s seal on their diplomas, 43 received a Civics seal, and 25 received an Early College Scholars seal.
“Thirty-seven will receive a Board of Education Seal, 21 will receive STEM Seals, and one will receive the Commonwealth’s Scholar Seal. We also have 157 of our seniors who will receive their Career and Technical Education (CTE) Seal on their diplomas,” she said.
Perry said 133 seniors received their CTE Completer Gold Medallions and 29 graduating seniors are members of the Senior BETA Club.
While earning their high school diplomas, Perry said three seniors also earned their associate degrees from Patrick & Henry Community College (P&HCC) at the same time. Two graduates also earned their Welding Career Studies Certificates.
Within the graduating class, Perry said 53 seniors plan to attend a two-year college.
“Twenty-five seniors plan to attend a four-year college or university. Two seniors are planning to join the military, and we have 24 seniors who are going straight into the workforce. We have a lot to be proud of seniors,” she said.
Perry said 28 students earned and/or maintained a 4.0-grade point average (GPA).
“Four students for their second year are receiving their first-year bars, and nine of our students for their third year are receiving their second-year bars,” she said.
Eleven students maintained a 4.0 GPA for their fourth year and received their third-year bars.
The Class of 2023’s class colors were emerald green, gold, and white. The class flower is a carnation with lavender, and the motto is “Ight, We Finna Head Out.”
