More than 300 students put a punctuation mark on their senior year at Long Beach High School with a traditional commencement ceremony on June 11. Family, friends, students and staff took over Alumni Field for an afternoon of speeches and celebration.
“We must enjoy our youth,” said class valedictorian Marissa Miller during her address. “And not make excuses for not living our lives to the fullest.” After thanking her family, friends, teachers and mentors, Miller highlighted the impact of procrastination and the importance of pursuing life goals.
Salutatorian Arsen Hrabko spoke of perseverance, personal growth and learning lessons despite failure. Hrabko reminded his peers to approach life with a feeling of courage, a sense of initiative and a spirit of adventure, repeating the popular motivational phrase, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”
Abigail Moehlenhoff, senior class president, spoke about the commonalities that brought the class together over their scholastic journey before giving her regards to classmates as they all begin new chapters.
Principal Andrew Smith offered several real-world takeaways, including the importance of making your bed, investing in a 401(k) as soon as possible and always having fun. Alexis Pace, president of the Board of Education, warned students about the dangers of over comparison. “Notice more, appreciate the people around you,” Pace said. “And listen to your own voice rather than being overwhelmed by others’ opinions.”
School Superintendent Jennifer Gallagher reminded graduates that the school would always be a place they could call home. Gallagher urged the young adults to pursue their dreams while continuing to make their community proud.