The crowd roared with excitement. The bull horns blew loudly across the gym. Family and friends wiped away tears while cheering for their favorite student, rejoicing in their accomplishments.
No, this wasn’t a sporting event – this was Oxford High School’s Class of 2003 Commencement Ceremonies.
On Tuesday, Oxford Area Community Schools said good-bye to 240 graduating seniors. The event featured brilliant speakers, beautiful music and, most importantly, touching memories.
‘The last four years have been full of triumph and tragedy, success and loss,? said 2003 Senior Class President Patrick Flannery in his speech. ‘But for every misfortune we encounter, there are two more experiences waiting to brighten our smiles.?
Flannery spoke to the Class of 2003 about their history in Oxford Schools. He recalled cherished memories of friends and activities. He highlighted the pride everyone feels in their school system.
‘However, now it’s time to look forward to our future,? said Flannery. ‘Remember always where you came from and what you stand for.?
Senior sponsor Kim DeBroka took her time at the microphone to compliment the Class of 2003 on their many accomplishments. Just a few of the group’s successes include having the highest number of students enrolled in advance placement courses at Oxford High School, winning the Governor’s Cup through the MEAP testing, receiving the Flint Metro League’s All-Sports Trophy for a third year in a row, putting on shows and dinner performances for the community and holding an annual Toys for Tots drive.
‘And I want to say thank you Class of 2003 for all the memories,? concluded DeBroka.
Oxford High School’s top ten students came forward to present their honor speeches next. This year’s top ranking seniors were Jennifer Bischoff, Shana Keller, Anne Macauley, Maria Blasco, Elizabeth Banachowski, Sarah Kropiewnicki, Alivia Stalnaker, Robert Vander Hoeven, Megan Comins and Carolanne Nawrocki. They presented the ‘Top Ten Events We Look Forward To After Graduation:?
10. Finally being recognized as an adult.
9. Moving out on your own.
8. Enjoying new experiences.
7. Making their own choices.
6. Exploring new and exciting academic opportunities.
5. Getting married and having a family.
4. Attending their first class reunion.
3. Traveling and exploring the world.
2. Experiencing the real world.
And the number one event, presented by Alivia Stalnaker, was ‘looking forward to the person you will be.?
‘Accept no one’s definition of yourself,? she told her classmates, ‘just be who you are.?
Oxford Schools Superintendent Virginia Brennan-Kyro had the proud honor of presenting the Class of 2003’s Oxford Cup to Patrick Flannery. The other four finalists included Elizabeth Banachowski, Shana Keller, Alivia Stalnaker and Stephanie Kushel.
‘When I look out among you, I look out with pride,? said Brennan-Kyro, whose speech described the lives of the students as a blank journal being filled with emotions, experiences and memories.
‘Tonight we celebrate with you the last page of your high school career,? she said. ‘The ending of one chapter and the beginning of another.?
In a special presentation, High School Principal Mike Schweig honored senior Alicia Gonzales, who was in a severe car accident this past fall. Gonzales missed a good portion of the school year, but returned to complete her senior year and graduate with her classmates.
‘There is one member of this class that has embodied the principles of courage, determination and spirit for the past few months,? said Schweig as he prepared to present Gonzales with a plaque. ‘One person truly represents the character of this class – Alicia Gonzales will you please come up on stage.?
Classmates and audience members gave the courageous senior a standing ovation while Principal Schweig presented her with a plaque honoring her accomplishments.
The evening’s ceremonies closed after the presentation of the diplomas with one overwhelming emotion hanging in the air – Oxford High School’s Class of 2003 will always be connected by the memory that they are ‘Friends Forever.?