Grade 12 students from Summerland Secondary School received their high school diplomas on June 23. The graduation ceremony, at the Summerland Arena, saw 104 students receive their diplomas as they prepare for their futures.
Principal Trevor Robinson noted the accomplishments and achievements of this year’s graduating students.
Robinson also took a moment to recognize Jack Campbell, a Grade 12 student who died in late spring.
“He was a friend to many and a bright presence in our halls,” he said.
Others at the ceremony offered words of encouragement and support to this year’s graduating students.
“I congratulate you on your achievement,” said Adam Eneas, hereditary Chief of the Penticton Indian Band. “We see a lot of unsettlement worldwide, with peace being threatened. I hope you conduct yourselves honourably and work towards finding a better future for all of us.”
Kim Wise vice-principal of the school, said the graduating students have taken on roles as leaders and mentors at the high school. She noted that the students had worked to create a community that welcomed everyone.
“The greatest gift you can offer the world is your presence,” she said. “It is showing up as your true self that will make the difference for so many. Thank you all for the joy and inspiration that you have brought into our lives.”
Valedictorians Joelle Colley and Gordon Widdis recalled their time at school, from Kindergarten to the end of Grade 12, noting the curiosity and enthusiasm the students showed through their time in school.
The enthusiasm showed in high school as students excelled in academics, arts, sports, carpentry, automotive and other areas.
“For such a small graduating class, we were pretty talented,” Colley said.
“We want to recognize our community for everything they have done,” Widdis said. “The support you’ve shown us has truly made a difference in our time here and our futures.”
They added that their past experiences have helped prepare them for the future.
“As we prepare for the next chapter of our lives, it’s important to recognize how far we have come. We worked so hard to get to this point,” Colley said.
“Although the next chapter in our stories might not be written yet, those pages will be full of plenty of exciting new adventures and friendships,” Widdis said.
The school also presented bursaries and scholarships to graduating students. This year, these awards were worth more than $120,000.
Widdis was also this year’s recipient of the Verrier Award, the school’s highest honour. This award is presented along with the Matsu Memorial Scholarship.
