Elwood grads savor journey’s end at commencement
While inclement weather led to an indoor ceremony in the school’s Performing Arts Center, pride and excitement were in ample supply as Elwood-John H. Glenn High School held its 61st commencement on June 23.
The students of Glenn’s Class of 2023 processed in until a sea of blue and white filled the front rows.
Principal Corey McNamara posed a thought-provoking question in his welcome address, asking “What is the purpose of high school? I don’t know if there’s one answer that universally applies. For each and every one of you, the purpose of high school likely varies. For some, your purpose was to get good grades to get into a good college on your path to a good career. Some have aspirations for a different pathway, such as a trade or military service. Some wanted to be a part of something bigger than themselves by joining our clubs. For some, maybe the purpose was just to have a place where they can go to challenge themselves, find advice or simply talk to someone. For others, the purpose was to socialize and make strong, meaningful friendships that will last forever and help them get through the toughest of times. I’m sure there are many other ideas out there, but I believe there is one thing that high school has done for everyone — it teaches us to be resilient.”
Next was Kenneth Bossert, giving his final graduation address as superintendent of schools and earning a well-deserved honorary diploma.
“The last seven years has afforded me the opportunity to interact with many members of this senior class,” Bossert said. “They arrived at Elwood Middle School as anxious sixth graders at the same time as I arrived as an anxious superintendent. I’ve had the pleasure of observing them in classrooms and hallways, in the cafeteria, on the fields, on the courts and on this stage. They’ve shared their talents in academics, athletics, the arts, music and drama with their families and the community. Seniors, you have brought positive attention to our school district, as Elwood-John H. Glenn has been identified as one of the top high schools in both the state and the nation. You have a lot to be proud of in the Class of 2023.”
“As a pediatrician in the community and a parent of one of the seniors in the Class of 2023,” board of education member Dr. Sara Siddiqui said, “I have seen your display of strength and resilience as you matured into young adults and am proud to see all that you have accomplished. It gives me great joy to be able to celebrate with you. I have seen your class rise to the challenges and support each other, one of the benefits of a tight-knit community like Elwood. What truly sets this class apart is the adaptability you have exhibited. Early in your high school years, the pandemic tested your resolve, forcing you to change your learning environment and change your high school experience. You navigated these challenges with determination and steadfastness. You gave your time and energy to help your friends and family and community, and because of that, you were able to be resilient and move forward. The skills that you have obtained by learning to adapt and face your challenges will provide a foundation that can be used in any path you choose for the
future. The community will always be here for you when you need us.”
Salutatorian Emily LaMena, a gifted track athlete, drew inspiration from the spirit of running for her address.
“Life is much like running in that it is a testament to endurance, perseverance and determination,” LaMena said. “It is a journey that requires both physical and mental strength. Each step we take builds our character, shapes our resilience and propels us forward toward our goals. In life as in running, success is not always measured by winning, but by the time and effort we invest, the barriers we break and the obstacles we overcome. Throughout our high school years, we have faced our own unique hurdles. We’ve encountered rigorous exams and demanding coursework. We’ve tackled complex concepts and sought knowledge beyond the boundaries of textbooks. Of course, we’ve stumbled and made mistakes along the way. We’ve also risen to the occasion, embracing the challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. We’ve learned to rise above setbacks, harness our inner strength and strive for greatness despite the odds. Our journey in high school has not been a sprint, but a marathon, and here we are crossing the finish line.”
Valedictorian James Rourke invoked the seniors’ shared history.
“These past four years have been a whirlwind of growth, challenges and unforgettable moments,” Rourke said. “We pushed ourselves in the classroom with new and more difficult courses, taking online and hybrid forms of schooling in stride, while juggling extracurricular activities and jobs. As we bid farewell to the halls that have shaped us into the remarkable individuals we are today, let us remember the memories that have
woven themselves into the fabric of our lives. May we continue to find joy, embrace laughter and approach life’s ups and downs with the same spirit and openness to change that brought us here today. I’m confident that each and every one of us is more than equipped to handle whatever comes next. The future is ours to shape.”
Shah then extolled the virtues of Elwood’s small, tight-knit school community before introducing Class of 2023 graduation speaker Kevin Golden, chosen by his peers as a student who exemplifies John Glenn’s spirit. His humorous speech focused on happiness and change.
“We live our lives to try and achieve goals, but if the ultimate goal is happiness, why wait?” Golden asked. “I urge every single one of you to enjoy the journey as much as the milestones. Everyone will encounter some roadblocks along the way that make the journey even more interesting. One major roadblock that we encounter is change. Change is meeting new people, living in different places, attracting new things, so embrace it. Goals are great, but look for the good in each day. Maintain a positive mindset and always
remember to keep smiling, keep laughing and live that happy life we all aspire to live.”
“This milestone is no easy feat,” board of education President James Tomeo said. “Many of you had to work extremely hard, take multiple pathways to achieve your successes, and had many ups and many downs in order to get to this point. The board of education extends our admiration, congratulations and well wishes for all your future endeavors. As you go out into this world, it sometimes may be divided and at times seem uncertain, but nothing is uncertain. You know your journey, you know your purpose, you know who you are and you know what you believe in. Stay true to yourself. Remember your roots and where you come from. Elwood will always and forever be home.
”Once the diplomas were handed out, tassels turned and caps flung to the rafters, the new Knights alumni walked out into the night, ready to begin the next phase of their lives.
