Sixteen Graduate from John C. Schiffer

Sixteen J.C. Schiffer students walked across the stage to receive their diplomas in Kinnison Hall at the Whitney Center for the Arts at Sheridan College on Friday, May 22.

Principal Mike Swan welcomed the graduates and their parents and friends.

He said that so of the things they learned, is that we really are better together. Each of you found the courage to speak your truth without diminishing each other. When you feel frustrated, refrain and redirect and when you feel misunderstood, communicate with clarity.

He added,

Salutatorian Alexis Sutherland had this advice for her fellow graduates as they go out into the world.

Valedictorian Adelena Dysthe had this advice.

The students voted for history teacher Payton Vigil to be the commencement speaker. He told the graduates,

He said that while the human race has made several advances in science, medicine and technology, we still struggle with many human problems such as living peacefully with each other and treating people with respect. In the over 5000 years of recorded human history, we still look at each other and make snap judges. We divide ourselves by background, wealth, education, politics, appearance and countless other categories. I hope that as hard you can you fight against this instinct and replace it with a sense of curiosity about other people.

There was a senior video presentation, and diplomas were presented by Josh Hanson, Leann Hatcher and Board member Michael Lansing.

Tassels were turned and hats were thrown in the air, signifying a new chapter is coming for the 16 graduates of J.C. Schiffer School.