[Editor's note: Alyssa Saunders is a journalism student at Ansbach High School.]
BAD WINDSHEIM, Germany (June 5, 2015) -- Blue caps flew in the air, tears rolled down cheeks, and laughs were shared as Ansbach High School seniors graduated Thursday at the Kur- und Kongress-Center here.
As the 37 seniors walked across the stage, emotions ran high while dedications were read and diplomas were received.
Speakers urged seniors to strive for greatness and make their mark on the world. David Carlisle, Ansbach Middle High School principal, encouraged seniors with his opening remarks.
"With freedom comes great responsibility," said Carlisle. "What my mother used to tell me is, 'Your life is what you make it.'"
Shayne Benson, class of 2015 salutatorian, shared three humorous pieces of advice:
"Don't eat yellow snow. Fake it till you make it. Procrastinate now -- don't put it off."
Dominic Dillingham, Class of 2015 valedictorian, inspired his fellow seniors with his speech about the power of time.
"If you wish to have your name etched in the stone of history, you must apply yourself," said Dillingham.
His final advice to the graduating seniors was "Remember your roots here in Ansbach."
Commencement speaker Dr. Tricia Surinak, Ansbach High School social studies teacher, presented a comical speech that personalized many requests by the graduates. Seniors requested several things of Surinak's speech, including "make us laugh; make us cry; make it magical; incorporate Drake." To this last item, she first spoke of Sir Frances Drake but also later referred to pop musician Drake. Surinak sang and danced karaoke-style to the Drake song "Make Me Proud." Seniors and audience members laughed and applauded as Surinak fulfilled the final two requests of "Send us off with a message" and "Give us something to remember."
Senior dedication speeches were read by Maura Flynn (in Spanish), Daniel Smith, and Katherine Strosnider. During the dedication speeches, Esther Harrison, assistant principal, and Myra Taylor, high school counselor, shook hands with the seniors.
Carlisle awarded seniors their diplomas as smiles and tears were evident. As seniors turned their tassels from one side of their caps to the other, these former students of Ansbach High School officially transformed into graduates.
Related Links:
USAG Ansbach official home page
USAG Ansbach School Liaison Office
Franconian News: USAG Ansbach official news page on army.mil
USAG Ansbach official Flickr page
USAG Ansbach official Twitter feed
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