Clinton graduates receive advice for the future
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CLINTON — Karah Niemann had a simple message for Clinton High School graduates.
“Be yourself,” the valedictorian said.
Know who you are, what you believe in and what you love, she said. Live your dream, your life and do what you want with it.
“Be yourself no matter how unique you are,” she said. “You don’t have time to be anybody else.”
Niemann was one of 92 graduates from Clinton High on Saturday. People packing the high school gym hooted and hollered for the grads. Cameras and video recorders adored the classmates.
Three valedictorians, two salutatorians, the student council president and the class president shared the spotlight, but the most raucous applause was for three graduates planning to enter the military. They were recognized and received a standing ovation.
Josh Bergman and Megan Rensink, both salutatorians, told stories about elementary school, middle school and high school. They talked about camp, spelling bees and getting their first cars.
They joked about senioritis and not being motivated to work.
“Now that we’re graduating, senioritis should be cured,” Bergman said.
Daniel Banh, also a valedictorian, said everyone should strive to make a difference in the community where they live. He wished everyone success.
“Whatever it is you do, don’t stray away from your goals,” Banh said.
Eric Gunderson, also a valedictorian, thanked parents, teachers and others for supporting the grads throughout their lives.
He said being a good role model and volunteer is important in a small community. He said graduates should create their futures but remember where they came from.
“Pay attention to what makes you happy in life and stick to it,” Gunderson said.
Randy Refsland, superintendent, told graduates to enjoy the moment. He told them to spend the weekend reminiscing with family and friends.
“Live life well and to its fullest,” Refsland said. “Find what you enjoy doing and do it well.”
While grads crossed the stage, people cheered, whistled and sounded air horns.
Afterward, the graduates sprayed Silly String into the air and on one another.
Clinton High School
Number of graduates: 92
Valedictorians: Daniel Banh, Eric Gunderson, Karah Niemann.
Salutatorians: Josh Bergman, Megan Rensink.
Songs played: “Pomp and Circumstance,” “The Gallant Men.”
Class officers: Ross Oldenburg, president; Daniel Banh, vice president; Eric Gunderson, secretary; and Brett Eliszewski, treasurer.
Class motto: “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of time, if one only remembers to turn on the lights.” —Albus Dumbledore
Class flower: Pink rose
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