Members of the Manheim Central High School Class of 2024 were encouraged to practice gratitude, to take personal responsibility and to stay in the moment in remarks given at their graduation ceremony. The ceremony was held on June 6 at LCBC Manheim.

Class president Andrew Stuart told his classmates about his struggles freshman year in high school, when he felt apathy toward almost everything. He credited his friends and his faith with helping him overcome his struggles, but he also noted it required that he do the work himself. "Our problems don't just magically fix themselves," he said. "I had to make the conscious decision to not let my struggles be what defined me."

High school principal Joshua Weitzel presented a variety of awards and scholarships to the seniors. "Every graduating class writes a chapter that's woven into the story of Manheim Central High School," he said. "The 2024 chapter continues the legacy of what it means to be a Baron. This includes a commitment to excellence and strong support for the community."

Salutatorian Daniela del Carmen Cruz spoke about her memories of elementary and middle school, all of which led her to where she is today. She cautioned her peers against focusing too much on the future, however.

"Throughout this time, in my anxious waiting for whatever is next in life, I have recognized a very important lesson: how vital it is to live in the moment," she said. "If we are only looking to the future, we can easily overlook the present and its precious gifts."

She emphasized that the Class of 2024 should remember the ordinary moments that made up extraordinary memories, such as attending football games or rehearsals for the musical. "Let's enjoy where we are in life and who we are with," she said. "No matter what path we take, we must remember to appreciate where we are."

Assistant principal Rodney Brenize presented a variety of senior awards, and superintendent Ryan Axe offered his congratulations to the Class of 2024. Mike Williams, a member of the Class of 1963, gave the keynote address.

Julianna Lindberg was named valedictorian. She talked about the challenges the Class of 2024 has faced, including attending school during the COVID-19 pandemic and enduring ongoing construction at the high school.

"It is safe to say as a class, we have experienced many disappointments. Our journey through high school has not been easy," she said. "Since elementary school, we've discussed the importance of overcoming obstacles. Resilience and determination were themes of the month in middle school, and they remain an integral part of our beloved 'Character Strong' at the high school."

She noted how proud she was of her peers, who rose to the challenges. "I believe we have truly lived out what we've been taught, growing through our encounters with trials over the years," she said. "As a class, we have performed outstanding athletic feats, excelled academically, served our community and so much more. We can be proud of all we have accomplished."

She also encouraged her classmates to always practice gratitude. "We have the potential to do incredible things, Class of 2024," she said. "Let us use our gratitude for our roots to fuel us for the future."