Pequea Valley High School (PVHS) held its commencement ceremony for the 130 members of the Class of 2022 at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 1, at the school stadium. The event included speakers, musical presentations, and recognition of award recipients, along with the presentation of the diplomas.

When Emily Ammon, president of the PVHS Class of 2022, welcomed the gathering, she commented on the difficulties of the past few years, noting, "The challenges made us stronger as individuals and a class."

Student Joshua Hershey spoke next. His speech, "Keep Calm and Cycle On," presented advice for his classmates in terms associated with bicycling. Hershey spoke about the importance of balance while moving forward in life. "Always remember that change and growth go hand-in-hand, or should I say 'in tandem,' with one another," he said. "No matter where the winding road of life leads you, keep calm and cycle on."

Following his speech, Celeste Huyard and Julia Shaubach sang "For Good" as a duet.

Student Emily Eby titled her speech "Changing Stories." She looked back to August 2018, noting, "We have all encountered serious change. I am not the person I was when I walked through (the PVHS) doors for the first time." She concluded by telling her classmates, "Never forget what you have learned here and the impact it has had on your story."

Her speech was followed by a musical performance of "Let the River Run" by the school Chamber singers.

Erik Orndorff, Pequea Valley School District (PVSD) superintendent, called his speech "K + E x R = First Choice." He explained that K stands for knowledge, E for experience, and R for relationships. He explained why each is crucial to preparing a student to move on after graduation, but he gave special attention to relationships saying, "It is important to preserve relationships. Don't let disagreements interfere. Agree to disagree, and don't hold a grudge."

Student Kylie McGowan called her speech "Shooting for the Stars," and she spoke about the unique journey each student will take following graduation. "Make the most of the opportunities offered to you," she said. "(We can) become our own asteroids and shoot off to shatter the stars."

PVHS assistant principal Amy Koberstein recognized senior award recipients and honor graduates. She announced the names of students who achieved academic honors.

PVHS principal John Trovato made remarks before graduation diplomas were presented. He noted that 27% of the graduates planned to go to a four-year college, 4% will attend a two-year institution, and 7% will attend a technical school. He added that 45% will enter the workforce, seven students will attend a biblical school or do mission work, and three will join the armed services. Trovato certified that all members of the class had met the requirements to graduate.

After diplomas were presented, they were accepted by Ammon, and the senior vocal ensemble sang "All Hail Pequea Valley." Readers who would like to watch the full ceremony may search for "Pequea Valley Graduation Ceremony 2022" on http://www.youtube.com.