Commencement at Clarion-Goldfield-Dows High School took place on a beautiful, sunny day this past weekend. The event was held on Sunday, May 15 with a good size crowd present at the high school gym.
68 graduates were recognized. The class motto was “Together, we have experienced life. Separately we will pursue our dreams. Forever, our memories will remain.” The class flower was a yellow rose, and the class song was “You’re Gonna Miss This” by Trace Adkins.
The ceremony started with the concert band playing the traditional “Pomp and Circumstance” as the graduates processed in. The Pledge of Allegiance was then led by Paige German and the Class of 2022. Delia Swanson gave the invocation. The senior chorus members sang “A Million Dreams.”
Next, four graduates gave addresses. Seniors Nick Carpenter, Brooke Askelsen, Jacob Moore and Thane Jackson all gave short speeches since all had the distinction of being valedictorians after maintaining 4.0 GPAs. The graduates discussed both the past and future goals, giving their classmates advice and good wishes.
After the addresses, the seniors joined the band and choir for various musical selections. The concert band played “Pevensey Castle” and the choir sang “Good Riddance” by Green Day.
High School Principal Paul Hansch then announced the Academic Top 10 in the class. In addition to the four valedictorians already mentioned, the other students that made up the ten were Cael Chase, the salutatorian, and Joanna Correa Dones, Paige German, Delia Swanson, Lauren Brooks and Summer Traub. All were awarded gold cords.
Finally, the class was presented with their diplomas. School board members Troy Seaba and Kelly Kirstein helped confer diplomas in addition to Superintendent Joe Nelson. Seaba then announced the acceptance of the class. Senior Coady Olson wrapped up the commencement with the benediction.
The graduates then recessed out to their class song. A receiving line was held outdoors at the entrance of the school. There were many hugs and even some tears as the day wrapped up.
