To the Graduating Classes of 2025,

The long-awaited month of May finally arrived at your doorstep in such a rush, she nearly swept you off your feet. I know many of you have been counting down the days this entire year, if not longer, but I hope you’ve paused to savor the moments along the way. These four years of high school may have felt like an eternity, but trust me when I say: from here on out, life moves at a pace that defies description.

I’ve had the privilege of attending your commencement ceremonies across the district. Some of you I’ve known from afar for years, others I’ve interviewed about your remarkable achievements. Perhaps I’ve read about your athletic prowess, or maybe your teachers have sung your praises. And for those of you who simply persevered through these challenging years – I am equally proud of each and every one of you. Every graduation ceremony I’ve witnessed has filled my eyes with tears of joy, pride, and excitement for your futures.

This district truly boasts an extraordinary group of graduates this year. Each of you carries something special to be proud of, and I’ve seen the unmistakable light of ambition shining in your eyes. You will go far.

As you embark on this next chapter, remember that true happiness comes from within. We live in a world where people often seek happiness in others, in careers, social status, possessions, or material wealth. But here’s the secret: happiness is ultimately a choice. Wake up each morning and choose joy. For every challenge life presents, you have the opportunity to create something beautiful from it. When doors close, recognize that perhaps they weren’t meant for you – sometimes life’s detours lead to destinations far better than you ever imagined. As Garth Brooks wisely sings about thanking God for unanswered prayers, sometimes our greatest blessings come disguised as disappointments.

Never stop learning. Life offers endless opportunities to enrich your mind and spirit with new knowledge, skills and perspectives. Some lessons will come easily; others will require you to fall, perhaps painfully. When you find yourself in the dirt – and we all do sometimes – don’t linger there. Rise up, brush yourself off and remember what drives you forward. Challenge yourself continuously. Never become so comfortable that you stop pushing the boundaries of what you believe possible.

Throughout life, many people will enter your path. Identify the relationships that truly matter and nurture them with intention and care, just as you would tend a precious garden. Some connections will be brief but meaningful – each offering lessons if you’re willing to learn. Others you’ll outgrow as you evolve, and that’s perfectly natural. We’re not meant to remain static; growth and change define our journey. Some call it maturing, others call it growing up – I simply believe our minds expand and our hearts deepen as we progress through life. It’s healthy to move beyond relationships that no longer align with who you’re becoming.

When people disappoint you – as they inevitably will – remember that making mistakes is fundamentally human. Our pencils come equipped with erasers because errors are part of our design. Some missteps can be corrected easily; others leave permanent marks like a Sharpie that can’t be undone. True apologies manifest as changed behavior, not empty words. And never let pride prevent you from saying “I’m sorry” when needed.

Don’t place limits on your potential through self-doubt or negative self-talk. You possess strength, intelligence, and deserve every opportunity this world offers. Remind yourself of this truth until it becomes your unshakable foundation. Banish “I can’t” from your vocabulary and be cautious with “I won’t.” The cornerstone of success is believing in yourself – especially during those times when no one else seems to be cheering you on.

Make choices with integrity and always reach for the stars that seem just beyond your grasp.

While I may not know each of you personally – your families, your struggles, or all your accomplishments – I stand genuinely proud of you, graduating classes of 2025. My heart is full knowing the potential you carry into the world. May your futures be filled with purpose, joy and the courage to become exactly who you’re meant to be.