Congratulations to THS Class of 2024
Be the author of your own story”
Despite being somewhat of a cliche, Principal Dan Barnes's advice to the graduating Class of 2024 hit home for everyone sitting in Hobart Arena this past Sunday. With 199 graduates, the Class of 2024 officially graduated high school and took a step forward into an uncertain but exciting future.
With the Class of 2024 comes a vast array of different opportunities and futures. In a way, as Barnes wanted the students to think about it, each student is authoring their story in a unique way. Adam Doviak and Jack Woerl were recognized for enlisting in the military by leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Lilly Ares was recognized as the poet laureate with her rendition of an original poem, “I’ll See You in Ten Years.” Countless others were recognized for honors diplomas, Latin honors, and overall academic competence.
Principal Barnes wasn’t the only one offering insight, either. The Class of 2024 saw several of their peers give outstanding speeches, with students like Madison Featherstone and Landon Luginbuhl reminiscing on past memories, and Evan Chesshir recognizing Barnes and the rest of the high school staff for their dedication and commitment to the district. Jack Wyant wrapped up the speeches with his take on middle school, where his excursion into sitting at different lunch tables led to countless friends being made and was compared to the uncertainty and anticipation that comes after graduating. “Sit at different tables,” he said. “Maybe you’ll find somewhere new to sit.”
Alongside the speeches came several music performances. Keenan Melton and Madeline Ranly lovingly sang their version of “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” and Cameron Davis silenced the arena with his original composition, “Kosmos.” Ranly summarized what everyone was hoping to hear - “No matter how far away we are, there will always be a road home.” The seniors of the Tippecanoe Choir wrapped up the musical performances with an all-out rendition of a classic - Miley Cyrus’s “The Climb.”
As graduates filed across the stage, the slideshow running in the background showed the countless narratives that were being written. From going off to a multitude of colleges, to entering the workforce, to working on certifications in cosmetology and becoming journeymen, the Class of 2024 has set its sights on a diverse future. And as the cheers of friends and loved ones died down, and the final diplomas were handed out, Principal Barnes left his students with a final piece of wisdom. Before tassels were turned, and caps were thrown, and the audience stormed the arena floor, Barnes offered his insight in a remarkable quote.
“You all have the power to write your own story. Write one that’s worth reading.”