Charles City graduates told to ‘be your authentic self’

Da’Quaun Burton (right) salutes his accomplishment during commencement ceremonies for Charles City High School class of 2013 on May 24. Go to the photo gallery to view more pictures of the event.

Andre' Jones photo

Fifty-one members of Charles City High School were encouraged to ‘be your authentic self’ during its celebration on May 24.

Anxious graduates received an outgoing message from Evelyn Miles Giebel, a retired educator and a 1965 graduate of Ruthville High School during commencement ceremonies.

“Remember when you have a choice in life, always choose kindness over cruelty,” said the former Charles City alum. “Try to be your authentic self. It has a simple meaning; be real.”

Giebel’s message culminated festivities as class president Jaelan Cotman opened them amidst fanfare of family and friends gathered in the high school’s gymnasium.

“Even though we’ll be separated, we’ll always be together,” he said.

Salutatorian Jasmine Brown spoke about the group’s future and being prepared for the next phase of life.

“Tonight, we evaluate our plan,” she said, expressing the differences of having goals and wishes. “We may seek education, we may seek employment, but we must all seek advice.”

“Stare at the person beside you,” the salutatorian emphasized. “Through the good and the bad, we’ve been beside each other.”

Valedictorian Kayla Otey’s crackling voice did not deter support from classmates as she addressed attendees.

“It’s been a long and short time,” she said, referencing the time and tasks accomplished by her classmates. “Long because of the homework we had and the early mornings we had to give up and short because of the friendships we’ve developed.”

“Remember to keep working hard and believe in yourself,” concluded Otey.

High school principal Stephannie Crutchfield simplified any future plans to the class of 2013.

“Undeniably, you all have been successful,” she said. “Hold on to your work ethic, your value system, and your humanity.”

Superintendent of schools Janet Crawley also inputted words of advice.

“A whole new landscape with new opportunities will be open to you,” she said. “In a real sense, you’re at the beginning again and I wish you the best of luck.”

This year’s graduates earned $271,250 in scholarship money.