On a sun-splashed Saturday at Whiteland Community High School, more than 450 seniors moved their tassels from the right to the left side of their graduation caps, marking the end of a four-year journey, the ladder of which was filled with challenges.
The journey was tumultuous. The Class of 2021 had a larger portion of their high school careers interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic than the previous class, but aside from a handful of people wearing masks in the crowd, the pandemic’s remnants were all but dissolved.
Avery Turner, the class president, emphasized the ephemeral nature of high school and the uncertainty of life.
“I remember sitting in class wondering if we would change things due to COVID. Looking back on the situation, I wish I hadn’t worried about what was happening,” Turner said. “It’s so selfish we felt we were robbed of things senior year because so many people have suffered during the pandemic. Many things we hoped would be in person would be virtual. We didn’t believe it would go by in the blink of an eye. We thought we would be stuck here forever, but our time is limited. It’s time to move on to the next chapter of our lives. Make every day count. Take every beneficial opportunity and carry it on with you.”
Salutatorian Macy Spangler compared people to caffeinated beverages, admitting her friends call her a “coffee connoisseur.”
“I believe people are a bit like coffee. Every time it comes out a little differently, but it has the same core characteristics. Some have extra cream or are a bit stronger. I see you and the coffee that represents you,” Spangler said. “Sometimes you get the wrong order. Do we try it and maybe have a new favorite drink or throw it away and our chance of experiencing something new?”
Valedictorian Noah Zahm embraced the term “Warriors,” Whiteland’s mascot.
“This year has been one of my greatest challenges. I worked hard to make the most of every opportunity, in internships, job shadows and interviews,” Zahm said. “I believe, regardless of obstacles, it’s most important to act as a leader and set an example of what we can achieve. Our tribe is capable of achieving great things. I see you being a Warrior every single day.”
