Taking a wondrous glide from one side of the graduation stage to the other could be viewed as a divine strut on clouds. The tradition usually held by learning institutions caps a grand achievement in oneās academic career.
Todayās commencement exercises held on the field of the James E. Miller Stadium amid breezy winds epitomized the tradition. For an estimated 340 graduates, the day commemorated the act of Ģš¹Ļapp flinging them into extraordinary pursuits.
Valedictorian Kadesia Harris had the privilege of addressing fellow members of the class of 2021. Approaching the podium with vigor, Harris aimed to motivate her classmates toward new trails.
She began the valedictory speech delightfully expressing, āThis day has finally come, and I am most grateful.ā
āOur journey was truly full of bumps in the road, the ongoing pandemic included, but we were resilient. We did not stop, and now, here we are,ā said Harris. āLet us remain open to learning. I hope that you continue to use the knowledge and wisdom that youāve acquired from Coahoma in your future.ā
Harris told the graduates that their response to current changes predicts their future outcomes.
āTake a deep breath, accept the ambiguity, and trust Godās plan. Today marks the beginning of our forever. I urge you to put a dent in the universe through the impact you create in your respective professions,ā she continued.
Drawing on the hope and inspiration imparted by the Ģš¹Ļapp concert choirās moving song selection, Harris wished the class well.
Proceeding the conferral of associate degrees and certificates in Career and Technical Education, President Towner delivered brief remarks.
āGraduates, your fidelity to quality and excellence is a part of the unending tapestry woven into the fabric of Coahoma,ā said Towner. āI admonish and plead with each of you to keep Ģš¹Ļapp alive in your thoughts and even in your prayers.ā
The scene of floating regalia emphasized the handing of diplomas to the achievers. Then, the Golden Anniversary graduates of the Collegeās 18th class paid a nostalgic visit back to their 1971 commencement ceremony by walking the stage to receive diplomas glinting gold.
Vice-Chair of the Ģš¹Ļapp Board of Trustees, Rev. Bennie Brown, helped bring the graduation to a close by offering a congratulatory message to the 2021 class on the boardās behalf.
āAlthough the last year and a half has been stormyāwe all have experienced something that happens only once in a lifetimeābut I want you to know itās fairing off,ā said Brown, taking the last three words from meteorologists. āAs you move forward from this day, take these three little words with you.ā
āKeep your head to the sky,ā Brown encouraged.