Dayton Graduates Receive Well-Earned Diplomas

DAYTON--Family and friends crowded the Dayton High School gymnasium on Saturday to hear the Class of 2018 Salutatorian Morgan Riley and Class Valedictorian Emma Sierra deliver their speeches and grant well wishes to the graduating seniors.

Salutatorian Riley thanked the parents, community members and teachers of DHS for supporting the Class of 2018. Riley said that if her feelings are any indication, graduating and going out into the world is probably the most terrifying thing for all the new graduates.

She shared the wise words of C.S. Lewis: "There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind." Then she added, "So, as we begin this new chapter our lives, let us not be afraid, or sad."

Emma Sierra's speech brought smiles to the faces of her classmates and her audience, when she talked about the many years the class of 2018 spent together: from the time when they were in elementary school, chasing each other around the "big toy," to graduation from high school, and becoming the "sophisticated, responsible, mature seniors" they are now.

"Along the way, each of us did something right, because each and every one of us is sitting here today." she said.

"To the Class of 2018, wherever we are in 10, 20, or 30 years, I hope each and every one of us finds happiness," she added. "Always remember to be kind to one another. But for today, let's enjoy this moment."

At the end of the graduation ceremony, 24 jubilant seniors were ushered out into the world, diplomas in hand.