The next journey awaits: GHS Class of 2026 graduates

The Graham High School Class of 2026 is looking to the future after they walked across the stage at the graduation ceremony last week.

The graduation ceremony was held Friday, May 22 at Newton Field and began with an introduction from GHS Principal Adam Anderson who thanked those who came out to celebrate the graduates.

“We gather tonight to mark a milestone. These students have spent the last 13 years growing, learning and perhaps most importantly, overcoming their personal adversities,” Anderson said. “Tonight is the culmination of years of dedication from our educators at Pioneer, Crestview, Woodland, Graham Junior High and Graham High School.” 

GHS Class Vice President Jack Page addressed the class and said they had been preparing their whole lives for this moment.

“Whether you are thrilled or mourning, we can all acknowledge that this is a big deal. This is an amazing accomplishment and this is a huge change as we are entering an entirely new phase of life,” Page said. “Some of us here will be furthering our education, joining the workforce, or possibly leading a whole different path, but no matter where we end up or who we become, we will always share at least one thing in common. We graduated here tonight from Graham High School.”

GHS Class Secretary Payton Huffman gave the pledge of allegiance and graduate Kenzie Kline sang the national anthem. Class President Abbigail Smith welcomed all visitors to the ceremony and introduced the GISD school board, administration and staff.  

“We are thankful to live in the community of Graham and to be gathered here today to end an outstanding chapter in our lives, whether it be in person or viewing from home. The Graham High School class of 2026, thank you for being a part of this ceremony of celebration and graduation tonight,” Smith said.

Each year, the top three students give speeches to the graduating class and this year began with Salutatorian Ryder Calhoun. 

Calhoun thanked the people who have shaped him throughout his education as well as his family and gave a shoutout to the UIL spelling team he was a part of that placed second at regionals.

Calhoun asked his fellow graduates what defines them now that their identities of the last four years are gone as they move into the chapter of their lives. He said that he believes authenticity is rare in a world where people are afraid to be themselves.

“It takes courage to think differently and live honestly in a world that constantly pressures us to fit in. But tonight, we have a unique opportunity, a fresh start. So, how do we do that? By building an identity that is not completely dependent on external validation. When you are truly in tune with who you are, you create the balance and stability needed to navigate the rest of your life,” Calhoun said.

The salutatorian said an example of someone who was genuine and authentic was the late Michelle Lowrey who died Sunday, Feb. 8 and left a mark on the community after teaching for over 20 years. 

“We all remembered one very specific thing about her, the twinkle in her eyes when doing the things she loved most, teaching her beloved students. I believe this delicate light in her eyes came because she knew exactly who she was and she lived honestly as herself every single day. She cared deeply, laughed genuinely, and made her students feel seen,” he said. “If everyone forgets what I said here tonight, I want you all to remember one thing: live like Lowrey.”

Valedictorian Jade Dospapas addressed the students and audience and said she would not be standing where she is today without the support of others. She thanked teachers, her friends and her family for providing for her and setting her up for success.

“My grandpa started working at a young age. He provided for his family, so one day one of his generations could go to college. Grandpa, because of you, I get to say that I’m going to college. Thank you too for showing me what it means to be truly kind and hard working,” Dospapas said.

She said both of her grandparents have continued to be supportive of her as she pushed towards her educational goals. She thanked her father and mother for supporting her and always being there for her throughout everything.

“My mother sacrificed her happiness and time for my success. For a long time, it was just the three of us. My sister, me, and my mother. When she was first starting out as a teen parent, I don’t think she ever imagined that she would have a daughter giving the valedictorian speech. But, Mom, this isn’t for me. I’m standing up here for you, for your hard work, for your dedication and for your sacrifice. I’m having my moment up here when you never got yours,” Dospapas said.

Dospapas said because of her mother she grew up in a household filled with laughter, adventure and never lacked anything. Her mother instilled in her at a young age that she could do or be anything she wanted and accomplish everything.

“You are my role model, my light in the dark and the one I can tell anything and everything to. Whatever the future holds for me, I will take the lessons you taught me wherever I go,” she said.

Dospapas closed her speech by addressing her graduating class and giving them the advice to remember those who helped them achieve success.

“None of us made it here today without the people we surrounded ourselves with and let into our lives that support, encourage and guide us through these four years. I hope you go up to those people and let them know how they help you get to where you are tonight. After tonight, we will all go our separate ways and on new paths, so on this next journey in your life, surround yourself with people who uplift you and help you get to where you are. You only live once, so make it count.”

GISD Superintendent Mary Johnston recognized 76 graduating seniors who were honor students. Honor students received a grade point average of 3.0 or higher during their tenure at GHS. 

A total of 101 students were recognized for distinguished level of achievement. Those students completed an endorsement plus four years of science and math. 

Two seniors were also recognized for entering the military which were Haley Escalante, who is entering the U.S. Air Force, and Triston Holland, who is entering the U.S. Army. 

Distinguished Honor Graduate Taylor Lauster gave the closing speech and prayer. Lauster said she tried to think of a perfect way to wrap up high school, but high school is anything but perfect. She said GHS shaped the graduates and they should cherish the time they spent together.

“We’re all going to be going down different paths, and we may never see anybody else ever again. But the Lord brought us here tonight together, and for that we rejoice. So, before you leave tonight, remember this, and always remember this, you are more capable than you will ever believe, you are more deserving than you will ever believe, and you are more loved than you will ever believe. Don’t doubt yourselves. Doubt leads to fear, and don’t let fear stop you from living the life the Lord has planned out for you,” she said.

With a turn of their tassel and the school song sung loud, the seniors left their high school experience and will move onto their next journeys in life.