ELIZABETHTOWN — East Bladen Eagles wrapped up their Friday with a commencement for the class of 2019.
After the colors were presented LeeDenasia Cotton sang the national anthem.
“For many years today was nothing more than a distant dream,” senior Ting Lin in her welcome. “But with the support of our family, the encouragement we received from our teachers and advisors, and the inspiration that we gave each other, we were able to secure a seat at this ceremony, therefore taking a monumental step in our lives. It is because of these many people that our once distant dream has become a goal that we now fulfill.”
She thanked parents and family for the opportunities she and her classmates had received, and encouraged them to savor the moment.
“Thank you teachers and administrators,” she said, “for guiding us for four life-changing years. I want to personally thank all of you, and my fellow graduates, for an amazing high school experience. But most of all, I would like to thank God, for the blessing that is this life, full of amazing people and opportunities.”
Hailey Hudson recognized the guests that attended and Katie Pontak shared her charge to the senior class.
“I am honored to be able to speak to you on such an important day,” said Pontak. “Almost four years ago we walked through the doors of East Bladen High School as students for the first time. We were united by feelings of anticipation and excitement, and wondering what the coming years would bring. But a lot has changed since then. We have overcome a lot of obstacles to be here today.
“In just a few minutes we will walk across the stage, accept our diplomas, turn our tassels, and depart from East Bladen for what may be the last time. We will experience many changes, but no matter what we do next, our lives will be completely different in just a few weeks, months, or even days.”
“High school graduation is truly and one in a lifetime event,” said Principal Dr. Jason Wray.
Olivia Hollingsworth and Halie Mason say they are ready to go. Both are going to Western Carolina. They won’t be roommates but they are looking forward to being at the same school together.
“I’m really happy,” Mason said. “I have worked hard for this and I finally have got it.”
“I’m ecstatic,” Hollingsworth said.
“I’m just excited to get my diploma really, and I don’t have to go back to school no more,” said Qu’Astia Monroe. “After high school I plan on going into the Army for unit supply.”
For her, her biggest motivator as been her grandmother.
“She passed away not too long ago,” she said, “and my grandma, she has been my biggest supporter.”
Seniors line up in the auxiliary gym at East Bladen in preparation for walking across the stage.
Family members stand and watch as the gym fills with the class of 2019.
With the colors presented by the JROTC, senior LeeDenasia Cotten sings the national anthem at the start of East Bladen’s graduation ceremony.
Ting Lin shares her feelings in the welcome for the ceremony.
Katie Pontak gives a charge to East Bladen’s senior class.
Principal Dr. Jason Wray, Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor, Assistant Principal Heather Thompson and Sunday Allen listen to the charge to the senior class.
Daishaun Edler, Dawson Edge and Ronald Dixon (from left) await their turn to cross the stage.
Alexandria McLean (left) showed off a mortar board with forensic science on it. Her friend, Ky’Aira Pridgen, is going into nursing.
Gloria Highsmith (left), with tears in her eyes, said Zy’Asia Monroe (center) is her first grandchild to graduate. Monroe also shared her special moment with Reagan Noel Corbett.