Dayton High Sends Off Senior Class

DAYTON – Dayton High School gave its final sendoff to 34 young adults as they move on to the next part of their lives. The Class of 2017 received a warm welcome from loved ones on Saturday as they entered the gymnasium to the fanfare of Pomp & Circumstance.

Following their entrance, Class President Cal Martin led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. Salutatorian Jenna Phillips then walked to the podium to give a speech to her fellow classmates and community members.

Phillips spoke of how fast her time at DHS went, and how much she would miss her friends and the community. "It has been a grand journey, and although I think I can speak for the whole class when I say I am so excited to finally be done and go experience something new, at the same time, a piece of me is secretly dreading leaving my friends, my parents, and this community that has been so supportive throughout this time in my life," she said.

She then talked about how she and her classmates are ready for the next step of life, whatever that may be for each of them.

"Although, this is the end of an unforgettable time in our lives, today is merely a checkpoint: the beginning of an even greater journey. Some of us have our whole lives planned out and some of us could barely decide what we were going to wear tonight. However, whatever you might do and wherever you may go I hope you remember this. Pursue your dreams, wherever they may take you," Phillips added.

Following Phillip's speech, Valedictorian Jennifer Warren addressed the crowd. Warren's speech touched on many things, such as the class's accomplishments, the future, and thanking those who had helped the kids get as far as they had.

"Wherever you go in your life, know that there are people supporting you and interested in your accomplishments. Take me for example. I know that I have asked some of you what you're doing after high school and you've told me at least 15 times, I'm sorry. But I didn't ask you just for fun. I'm genuinely interested in what you're interested in and I'm excited to see what lies ahead," Warren said.

"Thank your family, friends, administrators, and community. Today wouldn't be possible without them. So, thank you, to all of you that came to celebrate with us today. Class of 2017, this graduation is only the appetizer in the seven-course meal of life. For all of you that know me, you know that I have a great appreciation for food and I hope you all take time to enjoy each meal in the course of your life. Congratulations, class of 2017. We made it."

Principal Paul Shaber then presented the dozen honor graduates who sat in the front row. Scholarship winners were announced following this presentation. Before the presentation of diplomas and roll call by Cal Martin, Allyson Warner was recognized for also graduating from Walla Walla Community College with an Associate's Degree on the same day.

The Class of 2017 then walked out of the gym one final time to the tune of Ed Sheeran's current hit "Castle on the Hill." A recessional on the high school lawn was held after the ceremony.

The Times extends congratulations and best wishes to all the members of the DHS Class of 2017.

See scholarship awards on Page 8.