April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
April Garrett | News Journal Photo
BLANCHESTER — The 137th Blanchester High School Commencement was held Friday night with 99 graduating seniors earning their high school diploma.
Superintendent Randy Dunlap presented the Class of 2024 while high school principal Eric Lawson delivered opening remarks, congratulating the class for its hard work and encouraged them to follow their dreams as they move on in their future lives after BHS.
Seven valedictorians were given the honor to speak, prior to the awarding of diplomas. Taylor Baker was first and she reflected on the journey of her time as a member of the student body.
Xander Culberson followed and he recited a famous quote which has stuck with him over the years, pointing out how tough times can build character.
Alaina Dameron called graduation day a milestone in each classmates’ lives. She reminded them to cherish unforgettable times during their days at Blanchester.
Kimberly Hurst said she dreamed of being a world traveler in her early days, but living in a small town environment was a great experience.
Carolyn Kock, who sang the National Anthem, recited a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson challenging her fellow classmates to walk in the patch that leaves a trail.
Gracyn Phillips also recalled her experiences and encouraged the class to appreciate their surroundings.
Aubrey Stevens was the final Valedictorian to speak, asking the question, “What do you want to be?” She encouraged the class to surround themselves with friends, especially the ones who will “push you to new heights.”
Class Motto, selected from Mark Twain, “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than the ones you did do.”
Blue was the Class Color, and the Class Poem was ” Still I Rise” by Maya Angelou.
The 2024 class officers are president Avery Smith, vice-president Makaylee Coyle, secretary Brice Parian and class representative Aubrey Stevens. The class advisor is Jenny Hartman.
Board of Education members present for the ceremony were president John Panetta and vice-president Jeremy Kaehler along with Chris Baker, Kathy Gephart and Michael Williams.
