Hartsville High Class of 2017 encouraged to pursue their dreams
By Samantha Lyles, Staff Writer, slyles@newsandpress.net
Hartsville High School celebrated the graduation of over 230 seniors at a commencement ceremony held June 2 at 7 p.m. in the Hartsville High School Arena.
HHS Principal Dr. Charles Burry spoke to his departing students about the importance of finding their purpose in life – a task that may require them to leave the safe path of things they “should” do in order to realize those dreams they “must” pursue.
Graduate Tykia Blakney – who earned multiple academic distinctions at HHS, including Darlington County
Board of Education Scholar, National Honor Society, and an International Baccalaureate (IB) Certificate with Honors – gave the farewell address to her classmates and lauded their persistence in the face of adversity.
“Victor Hugo once said that perseverance is the secret of all triumphs. I believe this quote is the anthem for this year in particular. This year has tested my ability to manage IB coursework, extracurricular activities, a social life, and a job without pulling my hair out,” said Blakney. “I believe that the class of 2017 contains some of the most talented, compassionate, funny and lovable people I have ever met…stay true to yourself, and you will succeed.”
Once all the diplomas were handed out and students turned their mortarboard tassels, the Red Fox Class of 2017 were all smiles and high-fives, with some grads literally dancing for joy over the successful completion of their high school years.
Check out our gallery of Hartsville’s graduation here: https://newsandpress.smugmug.com/Hartsville-High-School-Graduation-2017/