Tonganoxie bids farewell to Class of 2016 with Saturday graduation
Tonganoxie High School valedictorian Spencer Finkbiner thanked some of his teachers for their great mentoring at Saturday’s commencement exercises, but at one point during his speech, he admitted he wasn’t the foremost authority on giving thoughtful and inspiring speeches to his peers.
“Just this week my mom had to remind me how to sort my laundry,” Finkbiner said. “And you want me to give you worthwhile, life-directing advice? I’m just a kid.
“The only reason I received the honor of telling you this on stage is because out of all of the incredible talents that humans possess, my talent is multiple-choice tests.”
Finkbiner kept his light-hearted speech going.
“Still, I wanted this speech to be memorable, so I did what I know how to do: I watched some valedictorian speeches on YouTube,” he said.
Finkbiner encouraged his classmates not to let opportunities of varying degrees pass them by.
“During this speech many of you have probably checked your phones, some of you more than once,” he said. “A part of me has that same itch. But every time you check Instagram, download a new app, or start a new show on Netflix, you are forfeiting opportunity.
“Opportunities to make those around you smile and opportunities to better yourself.”
Finkbiner gave one of a handful of speeches.
Class president Emma DeMaranville opened the proceedings with a welcome.
“None of us would be here without coffee, Red Bull and Taco Bell,” DeMaranville quipped. “I mean the constant support and guidance of our parents, teachers and loved ones.”
She also praised various teachers before giving way to the next part of the ceremony.
The senior ensemble sang “For Good” from the “Wicked” soundtrack before joining with the Chieftain Singers for the traditional “Maybe Someday.”
Principal Mark Farrar praised the class for its many accomplishments and urged them to keep pursuing those dreams, even if those dreams change over time.
When the students walked across the stage for their diplomas, the gymnasium at one point was up for a standing ovation.
Gage and Cali Sommer drew the response as they walked across the stage. The two are siblings of Sierra Sommer, a member of the Class of 2016 who died last year in a vehicle accident. Farrar presented them with an honorary diploma for Sierra.
When the final student walked across the stage, it was time for the celebration to begin.
The students were now alumni and graduates of Tonganoxie High School.
Look for more about this year’s class’ scholarship awards and more in upcoming editions of The Mirror.