World awaits the change Tulpehocken grads will bring

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Jun. 6—The weather cleared just in time for Tulpehocken Area High School's 105 graduating seniors to receive their diplomas during the commencement ceremony on May 30.

"This is the exact weather they were calling for today," Principal Christopher Hamrick said to the crowd gathered in the school stadium stands. "It's beautiful outside. Something special about Tulpehocken."

He said this has happened a couple of times for Tulpehocken's graduation.

"The storm just seems to fade away from us," said Hamrick. "Because of all of the special things we have going on here."

He thanked the graduates for their grit, determination and commitment.

"Graduating high school may feel like you are closing a major chapter of your life. This has been a journey that started all the way back in kindergarten," said Hamrick. "With dedication and determination, here you are now."

"Though graduation may feel like an end, it is truly just the beginning," he said.

If Hamrick could assign one word to the class of 2025, it would be "impressive" for not just what they have achieved but for the incredible promise of what they will accomplish next.

Class president Parker Thomas said in his speech that the graduation ceremony is not just a pat on the back for the culmination of years of hard work.

"It's a testament to our adaptability and courage in the face of adversity and the change it precedes," Thomas said. "As we stand on the threshold of new beginnings, it is essential to reflect on the transformative power of change in our lives."

Thomas described the class of 2025 as students of integrity.

"Among us, there's the future of America that is not afraid of change," he said.

Thomas challenged the graduates to step off the well-tread path "to get lost in the woods, cut by the thorns and even stung by the ivy in hopes that one day you may realize that the journey was never about making it to the other side."

As they venture into the world, Thomas encouraged the class of 2025 to embrace change because, through change, they will find their purpose and shape the future.

"The world awaits the change you will bring," concluded Thomas.

Valedictorian Jarred Baer said that above all of the setbacks, the class of 2025 made it to graduation, not because of the easy days or natural talent or even luck.

"We're here because we didn't give up," said Baer. "Most importantly, no matter who told us we weren't good enough, we proved them wrong and proved ourselves that we could do it."

Proving others wrong is not about getting revenge; it's about transformation — transforming failures, doubts, negative comments all into motivation, said Baer.

"Instead of letting moments of trials defeat us, let them feel the fire that burns inside us," he said. "Let that fire burn stronger and brighter every time someone tells you that you can't. Let it drive you to work harder and prove that you can."

As the class of 2025 steps forward into new futures, Baer said success is not given to those who have a perfect path.

"Success, rather, is earned by the ones who keep showing up, who keep putting in hard work and staying disciplined," he said.

Baer said to keep walking, even when the path gets rough.

Salutatorian Lewis Dieffenbach shared some of his memorable moments at Tulpehocken, including burning food in the BBQ Club and a gel blaster battle with the Golf Club.

"With all the memories here, both in and out of school, I can say for certain that I will miss my years here at Tulpehocken," said Dieffenbach. "For the longest time, I didn't think much of high school, but now, being at the very end, I know I will miss it."

"I'm going to miss it all because it is coming to an end," he said.

Dieffenbach said it is important to enjoy each and every moment, not just the exciting days, but also the normal and boring days.

"The reality is most days are not going to consist of setting a grill on fire," he said. "Or watch Evan hit a goose with a golf shot."

Dieffenbach said to live in the moment and enjoy every day, no matter the kind of day.

He also advises appreciating the things you have now because you won't have them forever. The memories, the experiences, and the people at Tulpehocken who have shaped them will stay with them forever.

Closing, Dieffenbach said: "Enjoy each moment of every day. Live intentionally and find meaning in both the exciting and the normal."

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