It is said that the hardest times make the strongest men. Through history this has been shown to be true, and I believe our community follows the plot just as well. We have all suffered greatly this year, but throughout it all, we have reemerged as a community, bonded together in the disaster we have all lived through.

   I believe it is unhealthy to reminisce on bad memories, the things long past which now we cannot change, but to think that by our literal trial by fire, that something good has emerged from the ashes is simply inspirational. We stand here today as a community. Stricken by misfortune? Of course. Wrought with challenges throughout the entire year? Surely. But something more has emerged from this. Our class has become united, in our spirit, our faith, and our companionship.

   Beginning in the fall, the Newman Varsity football team stood as a beacon of hope against a bleak and daunting future. They were the first sign of normalcy in a world gone awry. No one had expected this tragedy to strike and it changed how we had to live our lives. Merging to the satellite campuses was the second hope for our community. We could join together, to talk, to learn, and just to be high school kids once more.

   The teachers continued their unending support, most CBSL projects began again, and the future was looking bright. We returned to campus, worked hard and long until we get back to where we are today, unified as the Class of 2018, not one week before we finally be together for what will most likely be the last time at Graduation.

   For the class of 2018, I have some parting words and advice, as your classmate, your peer, and someone who cares for each one of you, I wish you all the best of luck in the future. Always remember in the power of a group unified as one, against all odds. Never forget the community you have had here and live your lives to the fullest. I will end with this quote… “Life is like a book, and even the saddest of chapters will come to an end. If you read the sad chapters swiftly and the happy chapters slowly, then yours will be a life worth living.”

    Thank you.