Celebrating resilience and looking forward to the success of the Class of 2024
Saturday, May 18, 2024, 10:00 AM | By The Woodlands Student Center Staff
Conroe, Texas – The commencement ceremony for Booker T. Washington High School's Class of 2024 took place on the morning of Saturday, May 18, 2024, at The Ark Church in Conroe, Texas. The event celebrated the accomplishments of 118 graduates in the presence of family, friends, and community members.
Principal Nina Norman welcomed everyone to the commencement ceremony, setting the tone for a memorable and heartfelt event. The ceremony began with the Presentation of Colors by the Conroe High School Army JROTC, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Washington High School senior Kayla Foote and the Texas Pledge by senior Jesus Lopez. The class message was delivered by Akyria Henderson, who quoted Winnie the Pooh, stating, "How lucky am I to have something so special, that makes saying goodbye so hard."
Principal Nina Norman introduced the distinguished individuals on-stage for the ceremony, highlighting the significance of their presence as a testament to the importance of the event. Among the attendees were members of the Conroe ISD Board of Trustees: President Skeeter Hubert, First Vice President Theresa Wagaman, Second Vice President Stacey Chase, Assistant Secretary Melissa Dungan, and Trustee Tiffany Baumann Nelson. The Conroe ISD Administration was represented by Superintendent Dr. Curtis Null, Dr. Jeff Stichler, Assistant Superintendent of Middle Schools, and Dr. Shellie Winkler, Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Schools. Additionally, School Administration members included Sheri Scheier, Lead Counselor and narrator for the ceremony, and Marisela Pineda, Assistant Principal and narrator for the ceremony, as well as the Student Success Manager.
Their presence underscored the district's commitment to celebrating the achievements of the graduating class.
Principal Nina Norman addressed the graduates, emphasizing their journey and resilience. She encouraged them to remember their challenges and triumphs and to believe in their capabilities.
"Today as you walk across the stage, remember how far you have come, the challenges you faced, and the obstacles you've overcome," she said.
"Determination, resilience, and hard work – each of you has your own story of struggle and perseverance. You've proven that with hard work, dedication, and support from those who believe in you, anything is possible." Her heartfelt comments were received with several rounds of applause.
Victoria Willis, the class Valedictorian, was recognized for her outstanding academic achievements. Victoria, daughter of Sam and Susan Willis, plans to attend Tyler Junior College to pursue a degree in social work. Victoria's parents were asked to stand to be recognized. The Salutatorian, Myli Ayapan, daughter of Myrna and Oscar Ayapan, will attend the University of Texas at Austin to study political science. Myli's father was remembered during the ceremony, and her mother was asked to stand and be recognized.
Following the recognition of the Valedictorian and the Salutatorian, each student was recognized as they crossed the stage, receiving their diploma from the Board of Trustees and posing for a commemorative photo. The graduates then proceeded to shake hands with Superintendent Dr. Curtis Null, followed by a warm hug and embrace from Principal Nina Norman.
The ceremony concluded with the symbolic turning of the tassels, followed by a jubilant toss of graduation caps amidst thunderous applause from the audience.
After the official ceremony, Principal Nina Norman was seen taking pictures with family members and graduates, with many parents expressing their sincere thanks to her for her support.
Following the ceremony, graduates posed for photos with their families, celebrating their accomplishments with flowers, balloons, and banners. Many families wore commemorative T-shirts to mark the special day. The atmosphere was filled with pride, joy, and a sense of accomplishment as the graduates looked toward their bright futures. This ceremony marked not just the end of high school, but the beginning of a promising future for the Class of 2024.
If resilience is the test of future success, the Booker T. Washington High School Class of 2024 can indeed look forward to a promising future.
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