MORENCI — Under sunny skies on May 18, the Morenci High School class of 2025 celebrated their graduation at Henry Geisler Field, marking the 189th commencement in the school’s history. The event was filled with reflections, gratitude, and a touch of humor as 44 graduates bid farewell to their high school years.
Salutatorian Emily Zuvers opened the ceremony, emphasizing the enduring impact of the students’ shared experiences: “Today marks the end of our chapter here, but our story still continues,” she said. “The lessons we’ve learned, the friendships we’ve made, and the experiences we’ve shared here will help shape us for the rest of our lives.”
Co-valedictorian Makayla Nieman followed, expressing appreciation for the support of family, friends, and faculty. She acknowledged the bittersweet nature of moving on: “It’s never easy to leave a place that feels like a part of you, no matter how ready you think you are.”
Nieman encouraged her classmates to embrace the future with courage and to cherish life’s meaningful moments. Following her words, Nieman introduced her fellow co-valedictorian Beau Shaffer.
Shaffer shared similar sentiments, urging graduates to remain authentic in a world often dominated by comparisons. “Be proud of who you are and what makes you unique,” he advised. “Wherever life takes you next, get some weird looks introducing yourself. Be unapologetically yourself.”
Shaffer concluded with a rallying call: “Write boldly, live honestly, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.”
Principal Jonathan Miller and Director of PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) Jediah Hall presented awards to outstanding students, recognizing their achievements and contributions.
Superintendent Jennifer Ellis addressed the graduates before the presentation of diplomas, offering words of encouragement: “Give yourself grace, laugh often and laugh loudly, but most importantly, be present in the moment and have fun; life goes by quickly.” She concluded with a reminder: “You did it. You have more strength and potential than you know. Now go out there, be bold, and make your mark on this world.”
As each graduate crossed the stage, they received a diploma from Miller and school board president Heather Sarnac. Afterward, they were given a white rose, a pair of sunglasses, and had their photo taken in front of the football stadium scoreboard adorned with “2025.”
Wyatt Berger delivered the farewell speech, blending humor and inspiration. Quoting St. Theresa, he reminded his peers: “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” Berger concluded with a call to action: “Congratulations, Class of 2025. Let’s go out and create some big waves.”
As family and friends joined the graduates on the field, “Even Flow” by Pearl Jam played through the stadium, adding a celebratory soundtrack to the joyful embraces and photo opportunities.
The Class of 2025’s motto, a nod to humor and camaraderie, encapsulated the spirit of the day: “You know what’s funnier than 24? 25!” — SpongeBob SquarePants.
The ceremony not only marked the end of an era for these students but also the beginning of new adventures, with the community’s motto propelling them forward: “We will always be one team, one town, one family.”
