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Class of 2016: GHS Graduates

On a warm evening, over 250 seniors from the Guilford High School (GHS) Class of 2016 crossed the stage to receive their diplomas before a cheering crowd of family, friends, and teachers.

The ceremony took place on June 21 at 6 p.m. on the Guilford Green. The event included a performance from GHS Voices senior members and speeches from selected students and faculty.

Valedictorian Cole Horton reflected on the last four years and encouraged all of the graduates to continue to be a positive influence in the world.

“Everyone has their own voice, but not everyone has a chance to make that voice heard,” he said. “In a world ravaged by inequality, we must fight to elevate the voices of those who lack the education, technology, freedom, and platform we so often take for granted. We will meet thousands, maybe tens of thousands of people in our lifetime, but one must only influence a few to make a true difference.”

Class Salutatorian Cassidy Bell gave a comedic speech and said when it came to giving advice, she decided to turn to some experts.

“Dr. Seuss, my personal source of inspiration, said in his graduation instruction manual Oh the Places You’ll Go: ‘You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose,’” she said. “Even though it may seem hard to take this final step away from Guilford and childhood, each of you has the potential to do so, the potential to step out into the world and change it for the better.”

Of the 253 students graduating, 194 seniors will be attending four year colleges or universities, 19 seniors will be attending two year institutions, 3 seniors will go on to technical programs, 6 will be joining the armed forces, and 31 seniors will either be traveling, taking a gap year, are undecided, or will enter the work force after graduation.

GHS Principal Richard Misenti congratulated the graduates and thanked all members of the community who helped to guide the students through their education.

“The students that come across this stage this evening are incredible,” he said. “When our graduates leave this high school they are taking on the world and they do it better than anybody.”