Ms. Emily Pelz
Principal, Beloit Memorial High School
June 2024 - Graduation Speech
Good morning, graduates, faculty, proud parents, and guests,
Today marks a momentous occasion, a day of celebration and reflection, and a day of endings and beginnings. As we come together to honor your achievements and look ahead to the future, I am reminded of the one constant that shapes our lives in the most profound ways: change. Throughout your high school journey, you have faced numerous changes—some anticipated, some unexpected—yet you have persisted with strength and determination.
Change is inevitable. It is a constant force that shapes our lives, whether we welcome it with open arms or resist it with trepidation. Your journey through high school, with its challenges and triumphs, has been a testament to your ability to adapt, grow and thrive amidst change. Reflecting on your time at BMHS, you can vividly recall the experiences that have shaped your path. From the day you first set foot in the BMHS hallways to today’s significant and well-deserved milestone, you have encountered changes in your approach to learning, shifts in friendships, and the transformation of your ambitions. But what sets you, the graduating class of 2024, apart is your remarkable ability to adapt, evolve, and thrive in the face of adversity.
As you prepare to embark on the next chapter of your lives, I encourage you to carry with you the lessons you have learned during your time here. The value of perseverance, the importance of compassion, and the joy of discovery will be your guiding stars as you navigate life's ever-changing landscape. Remember that change is not something that happens to us; it is something we can influence. Embrace change with courage, optimism, and positivity. Embrace the unknown with curiosity and open-mindedness. Above all, embrace the challenges ahead with unwavering determination and faith in your abilities. It is through challenges that we discover our true strength. And it is through change that we chart the course for a brighter, more promising future.
Congratulations, Class of 2024. May you continue to embrace change and seize every opportunity that comes your way. You are capable of incredible things, and the world eagerly awaits the contributions you will make. Go forth and make it proud.
Thank you.
