Concordia High School Graduates Encouraged to Maintain Faith in Themselves

Concordia High School Valedictorian Jenna McFadden believes the last thirteen years she and her classmates have spent in school has gifted them much more than an education, and has shaped them into the people they are today.

McFadden, who will attend Cloud County Community College in Concordia next year, said during her graduation speech on Sunday, May 14th that high school has given them the gift of friendships, hardships, tears, laughter, and memories.

"My family moved to the Concordia area the summer before I started sixth grade.  I remember feeling terrified and nervous on the first day of school because I knew no one.  However, my classmates welcomed me with open arms and I felt as if I had found my people," McFadden shared.  "Our class is a unique group of individuals with different talents, interests, and backgrounds.  Despite our vast differences, we have come together to form a bond that is strong, supportive, and inspiring."

Later in her speech, McFadden, who is also Student Council President, referenced spunky sorority sister-turned-Harvard Law School graduate Elle Woods from the 2001 comedy "Legally Blonde," who in the final scene of the film, says in her own valedictorian speech, "You must always have faith in people.  And most importantly, you must always have faith in yourself."

"These words remind me that we are able to achieve anything we put our minds to.  We are powerful, intelligent, resilient, and strong.  We have the capability to achieve our dreams and make a difference in the world," McFadden told her classmates.  "So as we get ready to move on in our lives, let's remember to have faith in ourselves.  Let's believe in our capabilities, our potential, and our gifts.  Let's not be afraid to take chances and try new things.  Let's be confident in ourselves and the path we choose to take."

Class Salutatorian Dakota Brockman thanked his family for helping him navigate life before referencing many accomplishments he and his classmates have achieved together.

Brockman, who plans to attend Hutchinson Community College to finish his general education credits, then transfer to an out-of-state university to obtain a degree in space science, says when he looks at the class of 2023, he sees lawyers, nurses, engineers, mechanics, farmers, teachers, musicians, military members, business owners, and a space scientist.

"But I think the best word to describe us is: the future...whether y'all like it or not!," Brockman concluded.

This year, 74 students received their diplomas during the graduation ceremony.

"We have much to celebrate today," Concordia Junior/Senior High School Principal Kale Katt said.  "This senior class earned 66 post-secondary, industry-recognized certifications and 731 college credit hours.  Both very impressive numbers.  Eleven of them are moving on to a four-year college, 45 to a two-year college, one to the armed forces, and 21 will be entering the workforce."

"And as much as today is a celebration of our successes, our friendships, and our shared experiences over the past four, or eight, or twelve years as a Panther, commencement is merely a beginning -- a blank canvas just waiting to be painted," Principal Katt added.  "Whether you're headed into the workforce, to a two or four-year college or university, or into the armed forces, lay that paint on thickly and paint with all your might."

Sunday's graduation ceremony also included a welcome speech from Class President Keegan Hamel, the turning of the tassel by Student Council Vice-President Hanna Acree, and multiple performances from the Concordia High School Concert Band and the Concordia High School Chamber Choir.