Andrew Heath delivers the valedictory speech at Holley High School’s 63rd Annual Commencement, 68 years after his grandfather, Robert Heath, spoke as Holley’s valedictorian. Provided photo“We stand at the meeting between a happy past and an unknown future having not reached the end but the commencement of our lives. What those lives become depends largely on the foundations we have been building in our high school careers.” That opening paragraph was written 68 years ago and was first read by Robert Heath, valedictorian of the Holley High School graduating class of 1944. It was shared by his grandson, Andrew Heath, valedictorian of Holley’s Class of 2012 at the 63rd Annual Commencement on June 23. Andrew’s brother, Mark Heath, was valedictorian two years ago and is now a student at Harvard University.
Andrew’s speech, he advised his classmates to “Be proud of where you come from – once a Holley Hawk, always a Holley Hawk.”
Class President and Salutatorian Timothy Gallets welcomed graduates, families, board members, administrators and staff. “Do what makes you happy – that will make life great for you,” he told his fellow graduates.
Class Vice President Patrick Stetzel presented several class gifts – a brick for the memorial walkway that will be built in front of the school to honor students, staff and community members; $375 to the school band, which has grown substantially over the past year; $375 to the Yearbook Club; a $375 gift certificate for the Brook House Restaurant to the cafeteria staff, and six $75 awards to graduates in memory of Gary Zastrow, teacher’s aide. The recipients are: Brianna Blackburn, Brianna Goodwin, Cheyenne Hovey, Amber Kenyon, Alyssa Lasch, and Nicole Morales.
This year’s guest speaker was Michael Crissman, Holley social studies teacher for the past 16 years. He advised graduates to create goals that are attainable – “small goals will help you get to bigger goals.” He also told the class to become leaders and to make sure our society does not stand still, and to create a sense of community wherever they go. “Go and do great things. We expect nothing less,” Crissman said.
Before receiving their diplomas, graduates were presented with 57 awards and eight scholarships. “The Holley Class of 2012 earned 935 college credit hours, $15,000 in local and community scholarships, and are eligible for up to $300,000 in specific college scholarships – they should be as proud of themselves as we are of them,” said Principal Susan Cory.
