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The setting sun during the Allendale-Fairfax High School (AFHS) graduation not only highlighted the school’s colors, but represented the ending of an irreplaceable journey taken by 44 students.
The ceremony was bittersweet as the valedictorian and salutatorian both spoke of how they are going to miss their classmates and the school walls they have called a second home.
“We may be saying goodbye for now, but our friendship and our memories will last a lifetime,” said valedictorian Cameron Lee Williams. “We have been through so much together, and I am proud to have been able to share this journey with each and every one of you.”
Salutatorian Leah Ja’nasia Duncan stated, “To my tiger family, you will be deeply missed. This speech would not have been possible without each one of you that cared, contributed, loved and instilled in me everything I needed to become the young lady I am today.”
The AFHS class of 2023 may have been closing one chapter to start another, but their support system of family and faculty will always be there. Graduates were cheered on by a packed stand of applauding family and friends. The football field, where so many of the now Tiger alumni created memories, served as the venue for the ceremony.
“As we move forward, I want to encourage each and every one of you to never stop striving for success. Set your goals high, and don’t be afraid to chase after your dreams. The world is full of opportunities, and I have no doubt that each one of you has the potential to achieve greatness,” said Williams.
“I pray that each of you know you are destined for greatness and will succeed. I believe that whatever obstacles we face, we will conquer them through faith, hard work, and dedication,” said Duncan.
Both speeches ended with departing words of wisdom; “As you go out into the world, never forget the lessons and values that we have learned here at school,” said Williams.
As the sun finished its dissent from the horizon once the ceremony completed, graduates walked off the football field into the arms of their families and friends to further celebrate this momentous occasion.
