The Wawasee High School Class of 2016 graduated Sunday, May 5. Over 210 students graduated. (Photos by Phoebe Muthart)

SYRACUSE — Wawasee High School had its 48th annual commencement exercise Sunday, June 5, in the gymnasium. With a full gym, 214 students heard their names called by Steve Perek, WHS assistant principal, prior to them crossing the platform to receive their diplomas.

Wawasee’s Superintendent Dr. Tom Edington welcomed the students and their families and friends of the graduates. Ryan Lockhart, senior class president, welcomed the students before the “National Anthem” was sung by Vocal Motion.

Valedictorian Madeline Birch and Salutatorian Dylan Elpusan both gave short speeches.

Birch started her address by stating that “every one of us is unique.”  She said students have one common source: “We owe all of our success to the last 13 years. We were molded and carved. As we aged, interests changed. We laughed and cried.” Birch noted several students that had died and how heartbreaking it was.

“It takes courage to grow and be who we are,” she added. She thanked teachers for being mentors and thanked families and parents before thanking WHS staff. “We will forever cherish these halls,” she concluded.

Elpusan’s speech started with him thanking teachers and peers. He told the students that it was the greatest time of their lives up until this point. “Why not make all the years the best of our lives,” he said. “We all have the ability to lead great lives.”

He said the future is great, even with the upcoming election, in which the crowd erupted in laughter. “So, now it’s the end and it’s time to begin the rest of our lives. This is the end of an era.”

Next, “I’ll Stand by You” was performed by Vocal Motion.

The presentation of diplomas was conducted following the speeches. Vince Beasley, assistant principal, handed out diplomas to the students, while Perek read the names of each of the graduates. Next, the turning of the tassels was conducted. A candle lighting ceremony was conducted, followed by the “Wawasee High School Hymn.” The benediction was led by graduating senior, Nicholas LeCount. The recessional was done, while “Pomp and Circumstance” was played.

After the recessional, the class of 2016 went to the high school’s parking lot and concluded the ceremony by tossing their mortarboards in the air.