Williamsburg Encourages Graduates to "Rise Up"

Secondary Principal Jennifer Frederick encouraged Class of 2024 to “Rise Up” during Commencement activities for Williamsburg Community School District, Friday May 24.

“This has been such a rewarding experience for me, being your Principal,” she said, as she encouraged seniors. “Surround yourself with people who are proud of you in each stage ahead.”

Frederick urged seniors to look deep down and see the determination that lives in each and every one of them.

“I have witnessed some of your knock-downs but you have chosen to rise up and meet the challenge,” she said.

Class Secretary Kara Lansberry was up next with her reflections on her high school career.

“This is the final milestone in our high school careers,” she said to the Class of 2024. “We’ve been through it all – sports, FFA, book clubs and we’ve all been very competitive in recess, gym class, and the heated volleyball tournaments. Let’s take that competitiveness into the next chapter of our lives.”

Lansberry thanked the community for their support throughout the class’ high school careers. Class President Talmadge Gunnett followed. Gunnett joked with the crowd about how the class overcame COVID, detention, Canvas, Homecoming and the Cafeteria.

“We all have a willingness to work for it,” Gunnett said. “We are just getting started with achieving our goals.”

Class Valedictorian Eliza Mock was presented with a scholarship, medal and award. Mock finished her high school career with 30 college credits and will be continuing her education at Mount Aloysius. “It’s an exciting day,” Mock said. “For the parents – this achievement isn’t just ours, it’s yours. Our adventure is full of excitement and anxiety but it begins now. Let’s make it a journey worth remembering.”

Salutatorian RJ Royer finished his high school career with 27 college credits and will continue his education at Penn State Altoona to major in nursing. Royer, an established golfer, said that golf taught him life lessons he wished to pass on – humility, luck, set goals, don’t dwell on failures, and never say never.

“It’s the follow through that makes all the difference,” Royer said.

Superintendent Lisa Murgas announced the honor students who achieved an “A” average throughout their 9-12 grade years and each received an honor cord. Recipients included: Claire Carper, Chloe England, Rowan Gorsuch, Ayla Hileman, Kara Lansberry, Andrew McMonagle, Eliza Mock, Laney Prough, RJ Royer, Jayse Snively and Luke Uplinger.

“Is a time of transition. Set your sites on opportunity. Embrace challenges with courage and determination, and cherish the friendships and relationships you’ve made here.” Murgas said. “I’m proud of the young men and women you’ve become. I’m excited for what your future holds but do so with integrity, perseverance, empathy and a commitment to lifelong learning.”

Murgas also recognized senior Jayse Snively for committing to the Air National Guard.

Dr. Barry England, president of the school board, joked in his opening about thanking the taxpayers for the air conditioning in the gym. England, in usual fashion, acknowledged the veterans, EMTs, fireman, and police in attendance. England called out several seniors he shared a close bond with and got emotional talking about his grandson, Andrew, who was the first PIAA State Championship wrestler from Williamsburg. England encouraged seniors with 1 Peter 4:10.

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms,” he said

The Class of 2024 has 40 members. The class song is “Running Down a Dream” by Tom Petty. The class colors are royal blue, white and silver. The class flower is a white rose. And the class motto is simply “Us.”