Huron High School Class of 2023 Commencement

369 graduates receive diplomas at Huron High School’s 55th commencement ceremony on May 31

The George Gervin GameAbove Center at Eastern Michigan University was the setting for the 55th Commencement Ceremony of the Huron High School’s Class of 2023.

Principal Ché Carter told the class to remember the importance of care, love, empathy, accountability and respect, and that how they treat others is of utmost importance. He reminded them to be inclusive, listen to the needs of others, and resist instant gratification.

“Don’t be afraid to do the hard stuff,” he said. “Every decision matters. Use your past experiences to your advantage, act like the person you want to be until you figure out who you are.”
“Always try to do your best, stay steadfast in your pursuit of excellence, and just do the next right thing.”

Graduate Royce Smith gave the student address, telling her peers that sticky fingers and recess aside, graduation is strikingly like the near future ahead.

“We will meet new people, relationships that are sure to teach us lessons on compassion, humility, pride and acceptance,” she said. “We will explore our interests through trial and error, discovering the subjects that resonate the deepest in our souls and others we will avoid at all costs.”

She said they will struggle to find where they fit in, but most importantly each day will step further along their individual journeys.

“I’ve never seen such an intelligent, multi-talented, and driven group of people in my life,” she said, “and I am grateful to be part of such a diverse collection of peers.”

The keynote speaker was English teacher Kris Zager, who reminded grads that “it’s always raining somewhere” and to not postpone doing what makes them feel alive right now.

Superintendent Jeanice Swift told the graduates that they were an impressive sight; an expanse of green and gold hailing from the Ann Arbor high school situated along the banks of the Huron River, the one and only anywhere home of the River Rats.

Swift reminded grads that they emerge from a strong and powerful place, and join a long and distinguished tradition as a Huron alumni. She applauded them for overcoming the obstacles of the global pandemic and historic disruption in achieving their goals.

The ceremony included musical performances, recognition of scholars, and the announcement of Huron High School citizenship and scholarship awards.

As always, the event ended with a rousing performance of The Star Wars Main Theme by the Huron Symphony Orchestra as staff greeted graduates leaving the convention hall.