Monroe High celebrated the graduation of the Senior Class of 2019 on Friday, May 31. The ceremony took place at 6:30 p.m. on the Bunkleman Field at MHS and included speeches from several different faculty members and students.

The ceremony opened and closed with a performance by the MHS band led by Joseph Swinkey. The senior choir members also performed the Monroe Alma Mater, led by Cate Windelborn.

The Summa Cum Laude students gave a group speech, involving all 49 members. Other students who received recognition included Maria Gomez, a foreign exchange student from Brazil, and the seniors who are enlisted in the military.

Several staff and faculty members sat on the field during the ceremony and lined up to congratulate the students as they left the field.

Many students and faculty gave speeches throughout, including a speech from Principal Bill Ferrara and Superintendent Julie Everly. Class Advisors Travis Trombley, Tigra Delbin, and Jennifer Hueston also gave speeches expressing their pride and enthusiasm in the graduating class.

“As much as you have the ability to shape the world, you are shaped by it,” Trombley said. “Many of you will begin the exciting journey of shaping your own habits. You should be excited for this freedom, but keep in mind the responsibility that goes with it…As you start to shape your own life, reflect and think about the type of person you want to be.”

Senior Class President Mitchell Carter and Vice President Gino Assenmacher also gave speeches reflecting on the last four years of their high school experience. Carter expressed his gratitude for all of the MHS staff,

“I know one thing for sure, and it is this: we must show thanks to those who have helped us along the way,” Carter said.