Milan High School graduates Class of 2019

Melinda Starkey Photo

After the turning of the tassels, students left the gymnasium to participate in the standing tradition of the throwing of the caps. Pictured above, students counted down before tossing their caps in the air.

The class of 2019 held their graduation on Saturday, May 25th. The Milan High School gymnasium was packed as 105 students marched in the procession to their seats to await the calling of their names for their diplomas.

After the playing of the Star Spangled Banner by the Milan High School Band, Principal Ryan Langferman welcomed everyone to the ceremony. He also acknowledged staff and teachers that were retiring after many years of service. Those included Cheryl Schutte, Tom Reale, and Peggy Mix. He went on to encourage the students to find their passion.

The Salutatorian address was given by Margo Taylor, and the Valedictorian address was presented by Alyssa Brinkman. Taylor spoke about the classes’ journey from kindergarten through now, stating “the dreams of our class are limitless because of all we’ve learned in high school.” Brinkman thanked the administration, teachers and family for their support throughout her school journey, and thanked her classmates for their friendships. She also talked about the many accomplishments her graduating class had made during their high school years. She ended with the class quote “and this is the part where you find out who you are.” Following their speeches, Superintendent Jane Rogers offered the graduates words of wisdom gleaned from motivational speaker Jon Gordon, encouraging them to follow their passion, be in the moment, and always be positive.

After the presentation of the diplomas, the choir sang the class song I Lived by One Republic. Brinkman then led the seniors in the changing of their tassels.

As the Milan High School Band played the Recessional (Sine Nomine), the now graduated seniors made their way outside for the traditional throwing of the caps.