Enjoy the moment, impact the future New Kent Class of 2015 instructed
High school principal Chris Valdrighi offers a congratulatory handshake to Kagan Jones (left), while Victoria Vazquez lights up the arena with her smile after receiving her diploma during New Kent High School graduation ceremonies on June 12.Andre' Jones photos
Members of New Kent High School’s Class of 2015 received multiple messages encouraging them to enjoy the present and make an impact in the future during June 12 commencement ceremonies at VCU’s Siegel Center in Richmond.
With a near capacity crowd, 235 graduates were recognized for getting to the epic milestone in their life.
Superintendent of schools David Myers lightened up the crowd pulling out a giant red pencil, a tribute to the legendary “pencil story” that had been given by former superintendent of schools Rick Richardson. The move drew laughter from all in attendance, but also allowed Myers to relay his brief message to the Class of 2015.
“You need to laugh-on and enjoy life,” he said. “You need to enjoy these moments and cherish them as well. This accomplishment is just one of the many things you will have in life.”
Class president Holden Minor addressed classmates about overcoming the hardships and heartaches but remaining strong.
“Being Trojans means being warriors,” he said. “We don’t sit back and submit when times get tough. We stand up and fight because we know that we are capable of all things and that nothing in this world has the power to make us falter unless we let it.
“I believe we all have a destiny,” Minor continued. “Nothing is promised to us in this world and I strongly believe in seizing an opportunity when it presents itself.
“Our motto this year has been ‘New Kent Strong’ and I find it remarkable how accurate this phrase is,” he added. “I cannot say where I’ll be in the future; however, I can say that whatever I do, I’ll use the lessons learned at this school to excel in it.”
Class salutatorian David Bushhouse used a recount on events that occurred on June 12 as an emphasis on his outgoing speech.
“The reason June 12 is specifically so important to millions around the world is because history was made today,” he said. “But history is made every day.
“Each of us has incredible opportunities every day to make history,” Bushhouse continued. “Today is a vitally important day, but so is tomorrow. As we move forward, let’s never forget how many opportunities to make history that we have every day.
Valedictorian Robin Thady congratulated fellow classmates, saying that even though time has passed quickly to graduation day, the outgoing class of 2015 should take time and reflect on past experiences.
“Living at high speeds is exhilarating and addicting, but I think it’s also important to slow down from time to time,” the valedictorian said. “We shouldn’t rush through our lives.
“Take time to take in the scenery and enjoy simple things so that we can absorb every ounce of vitality and radiance that the world has to offer,” Thady continued. “We tend to think that we need to bounce from one activity to the next to make the most out of our lives but that’s not true. We’re constantly reminded to seek quality over quantity so maybe we should immerse ourselves into the most fulfilling experiences rather than try to pack every day with shallow spurts of instant gratification.
“Let’s stop and let this moment sink in and this is a huge milestone,” she added. “Slow down, make memories that will last, and enjoy life.”
Tributes were also a highlight during graduation festivities. A video with several members of the graduating class played, offering advice to students in the school system as well as recollecting memories occurred over their four-year journey. Another recognition came when United States House of Representatives from Virginia’s 7th District Dave Brat presented a United States flag flown over the U.S. Capitol to Patti Gulick, a social studies teacher who is retiring after 37 years teaching in New Kent. A standing ovation consisted of attendees who were either instructed by Gulick or had a child taught by her, resulting in nearly every seat unoccupied.
High school principal Christopher Valdrighi offered words of wisdom prior to the recessional of the newly announced graduates.
“When you were in high school, you were always part of a club, team, or a group. Now, you won’t be part of a team but an individual.
“You’re an individual who can make change,” he continued. “You have to pursue those changes because when you leave, it is what you do that will impact those around you.”
Madison Beasley (left) squats down so that her friend Jacqueline Krawiec (right) can secure her tassel before marching down the aisle.
(L to R) Brianna Acosta, Emily Scroggins, Taylor Pantos, and Samantha Otey take in the moment with a snapshot from a camera phone.
James Giffin (right) helps Chris Campbell (left) put the finishing touches on his graduation attire.
Superintendent of schools David Myers pulls out a giant red pencil, drawing laughter in reference to the traditional “pencil story” told at many New Kent High graduations.
Retiree Patti Gulick (left) is moved to tears as United States Representative David Brat presents her with a flag that has been flown over the U.S. Capitol in recognition of her 37 years of teaching at New Kent High School.
After the ceremony, Autumn Richmond recaps the memory by taking pictures with family and friends.
Former New Kent-Charles City Chronicle intern Ian Schwegal is surrounded by family in celebration for earning his high school diploma.