Congratulations to the ATA College Prep graduation class of 2014:
Ashley Ford
Conor O'Meara
Maggie O'Meara
Caleb Rightmer
The evening began with the mingling of friends and family as they perused each graduate's personalized table displaying past achievements, future plans, likes and dislikes, and gave small insights into the uniqueness of each individual.
The ceremony was introduced by Coach Newman & Carol Hagar as they spoke about the history of ATA College Prep and bragged a bit on the culture, student body, and community.
Each graduate was introduced by a video slideshow (created by Ron Wikso) filled with plenty of baby pictures, memories, and laughs. Next, selected speakers spoke about the individual --sharing personal stories and enlightening wisdom.
Ashley's childhood friend, who could not be in attendance, prepared a moving video to send her on her way to Millsaps College in the fall.
Conor was introduced by his grandfather and Coach Doug Davis who both spoke of Conor's wild curiosities and prospects for a bright gap year full of growth.
Maggie's introduction came from a former teacher and Coach Lucie Schmidhauser who complimented her on her quiet yet strong presence and that she will be a valued asset to Utah State.
Finally, Linda Dobbs spoke of Caleb's humor and thirst for learning. Ms. Dobbs and Caleb's older sister both wished him well as he journeys to Southwestern in September.
Each graduate also gave their own, inspirational speeches about experiences, the CP culture and family dynamic, and even gave their successors a bit of sibling advice -- just like Maggie's closing quote: "remember, dreams don't work unless you do."
The evening's keynote address was delivered CP Head of Humanities, Tommy Collins. He spoke of the importance, and consequences, of integrity and of following one's gut, even in the face of adversity. He advised the graduates to be open to new experiences in this next chapter of their lives and emphasized that now is a time to be tested, to take chances, to ask questions.
Finally, the graduates received their High School diplomas.
And the class of 2015 was invited to the stage to receive their gift, and burden, of the title: Seniors.
Now let them eat cake!
As the ceremony wrapped, the night was just beginning -- 2014 marks the first ATA College Prep Graduation Dance! (Perhaps it will be annual?)
And to close, I will quote Tommy's keynote speech as he quoted his Grandmother's favorite radio personality, Garrison Keillor --
"Be well, do good work, and keep in touch."