Tolson to Lamar grads: ‘go out and chase your dreams and make them reality’
Lamar High School held commencement exercises for the Class of 2018 on Wednesday, June 6. Family members, friends, and loved ones packed the stands at Donald R. Poole Stadium to watch the ceremony, where LHS principal Kathy Gainey and assistant principal Carlos Burgess presented diplomas to the graduating seniors.
“In a few moments, we will be receiving the most valuable piece of paper we have ever received in our lives. It seems like yesterday we were walking down the halls as freshmen and not knowing what to expect. How did time fly by so fast? The past four years have given us memories we will never forget,” said graduate Zackery Tolson in his address to classmates.
“As far as life is concerned, we have not made it yet. This is just the beginning. This year, we’ve had to make some tough decisions that have and will change our lives forever. My advice to you, the Class of 2018, is to choose wisely and don’t wait around for good things to happen to you – go out and chase your dreams and make them reality,” said Tolson.
Graduate Adeonna Benbow likened her first day at LHS to the day her mother dropped her off for the first time at Spaulding Middle School.
“I was afraid, so I told my mom not to leave me, and when I exited her car, she zoomed off!” said Benbow. “On my first day at Lamar High, it seemed like deja vu – I was afraid because it was a new environment and I had to meet new people.”
Benbow recounted the process of making new friends and bonding with teachers who became mentors and helped mold her into a stronger, wiser person. She also noted that Lamar’s 2018 class has lost a few members along the way, and she urged the group to strive for success in remembrance of their lost friends.
“Just remember that no matter where we go, we should never forget where we came from. Although we are a small class, we are one big family. We should focus on our dreams and do whatever it takes to achieve them,” said Benbow.
Find photos from Lamar’s Graduation here.
