1 00:05:06,800 --> 00:05:11,720 I am Dr. Elizabeth Wilson, the proud principal of Round Rock Early College High School, and 2 00:05:11,720 --> 00:05:19,160 it is my honor to welcome each of you to today's class of 2025 commencement ceremony. Please 3 00:05:19,160 --> 00:05:22,540 remain standing, if you would please join me in standing first. 4 00:05:27,860 --> 00:05:29,160 Please remain standing 5 00:05:29,160 --> 00:05:34,760 for the Pledge of Allegiance, led by ECHS Seniors, Sammy Meary and Naomi Nathan, and 6 00:05:34,760 --> 00:05:40,340 the National Anthem performed by ECHS Seniors, Evan Pena and Samira Wiggins. 7 00:05:40,340 --> 00:05:41,060 I 8 00:05:45,060 --> 00:05:50,680 pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for 9 00:05:50,680 --> 00:05:57,320 which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all. 10 00:05:57,760 --> 00:05:59,280 Now remain standing for the Texas Pledge. 11 00:06:01,280 --> 00:06:02,760 Honor the Texas flag. 12 00:06:03,120 --> 00:06:07,980 I pledge allegiance to the Texas, one state under God, indivisible. 13 00:08:09,460 --> 00:08:10,160 You may be seated. 14 00:08:10,160 --> 00:08:10,200 it. 15 00:08:12,440 --> 00:08:16,600 Thank you, Sammy, Naomi, Evan, and Samira. 16 00:08:17,920 --> 00:08:22,060 Realm Rock Early College High School began in 2016. 17 00:08:23,040 --> 00:08:27,680 And today, we are pleased to celebrate our sixth graduating 18 00:08:27,680 --> 00:08:28,220 class. 19 00:08:37,980 --> 00:08:39,760 Given their dedication, determination, 20 00:08:40,080 --> 00:08:43,800 along with the support from parents, families, teachers, 21 00:08:44,400 --> 00:08:46,920 professors, friends, and school community, 22 00:08:46,920 --> 00:08:51,980 the class of 2025 has reached this exceptional milestone 23 00:08:51,980 --> 00:08:54,420 of high school graduation today. 24 00:08:55,300 --> 00:09:01,820 87% of the seniors sitting before us are now college graduates 25 00:09:01,820 --> 00:09:05,160 with their Associate of Arts degree in General Studies, 26 00:09:05,720 --> 00:09:09,880 or are the first in our ECHS cohort to graduate 27 00:09:09,880 --> 00:09:13,540 with their Associate of Science degree in General Studies. 28 00:09:13,540 --> 00:09:14,500 and 29 00:09:22,370 --> 00:09:27,110 all of our seniors are well on their way with at least 30 hours of college 30 00:09:27,110 --> 00:09:30,450 credits they have earned over the past four years. 31 00:09:37,740 --> 00:09:39,400 The seniors within this 32 00:09:39,400 --> 00:09:45,160 graduating class of 2025 have been accepted into universities throughout the 33 00:09:45,160 --> 00:09:51,060 country and have been fortunate to receive numerous scholarships. In total 34 00:09:51,060 --> 00:10:02,720 To date, the ECHS graduating class of 2025 has been awarded $2,672,514 in scholarships. 35 00:10:10,380 --> 00:10:13,520 Congratulations for a job well done. 36 00:10:14,400 --> 00:10:18,740 It is now my pleasure to introduce our esteemed guests. 37 00:10:19,400 --> 00:10:24,920 Please stand as I call your name and audience please hold your applause until all names 38 00:10:24,920 --> 00:10:25,720 have been called. 39 00:10:25,720 --> 00:10:25,860 President of the School of 40 00:10:25,860 --> 00:10:26,100 Education. 41 00:10:26,560 --> 00:10:28,580 Brown Rock I S. D. Superintendent 42 00:10:28,580 --> 00:10:30,840 of Schools Doctor Haffed Aziz, 43 00:10:31,780 --> 00:10:33,620 Brown Rock I S. D. Board of 44 00:10:33,620 --> 00:10:35,220 Trustees, Tiffany Harrison 45 00:10:35,220 --> 00:10:38,080 President, Alicia Markham Vice 46 00:10:38,080 --> 00:10:40,140 President, Amber Landrum 47 00:10:40,140 --> 00:10:42,640 Secretary, Choe Zerate, 48 00:10:43,060 --> 00:10:45,100 Trustee, Melissa Ross, 49 00:10:45,420 --> 00:10:48,000 Trustee, Amy Weir, Trustee, 50 00:10:48,320 --> 00:10:49,360 and Dr. Michael Way, 51 00:10:50,280 --> 00:10:53,620 executive leadership team, Dr Natalie Nichols, 52 00:10:54,020 --> 00:10:57,780 senior chief of schools and innovation, Dennis Covington, 53 00:10:58,140 --> 00:11:03,680 chief finance officer, chief operations officer, Anastasia Drabicki, 54 00:11:04,880 --> 00:11:08,920 chief of public affairs and communications, Cindy Heal, 55 00:11:09,080 --> 00:11:12,760 general counsel, Eddie Curran, chief human resource officer, 56 00:11:13,460 --> 00:11:17,280 Donald Bruton, chief technology officer, Karen Gray, 57 00:11:17,280 --> 00:11:20,160 of Access and Opportunity, Ryan 58 00:11:21,740 --> 00:11:24,220 Urutia, Chief of Police, 59 00:11:25,800 --> 00:11:27,580 Central Administrative Staff, 60 00:11:28,320 --> 00:11:29,760 Dr. Patricia Eflin, Area 61 00:11:29,760 --> 00:11:31,280 Superintendent of the Stony Point 62 00:11:31,280 --> 00:11:32,740 Learning Community, Dr. 63 00:11:32,880 --> 00:11:34,240 Mya Mercer, Area Superintendent 64 00:11:34,240 --> 00:11:35,560 of the McNeil Learning 65 00:11:35,560 --> 00:11:36,700 Community, Dr. 66 00:11:36,880 --> 00:11:38,420 Zach Odom, Area Superintendent 67 00:11:38,420 --> 00:11:39,700 of the Westwood Learning 68 00:11:39,700 --> 00:11:41,680 Community, Dr. Nancy Guerrero, 69 00:11:41,860 --> 00:11:43,520 Area Superintendent of the Cedar 70 00:11:43,520 --> 00:11:45,200 Ridge Learning Community, Dr. 71 00:11:45,200 --> 00:11:50,520 Dr. Logan Farris, Area Superintendent of the Round Rock Learning Community, Dr. Byron 72 00:11:50,520 --> 00:11:58,260 Gerard, Area Superintendent of Student Support Services, Rodrigo Pertilio, Assistant Superintendent 73 00:11:58,260 --> 00:12:04,420 of Academics, Diane Folletto, is Associate Director of Marketing and Engagement, and 74 00:12:04,420 --> 00:12:07,560 Blanca Valencia is our principal for Success High School. 75 00:12:07,940 --> 00:12:09,420 Can you please give them a round of applause? 76 00:12:17,640 --> 00:12:21,680 There's a team that supports all of our graduations and we would like to just 77 00:12:21,680 --> 00:12:27,480 thank our district staff, definitely Stephanie Cheatham, Betty Joe Byrne and her team as 78 00:12:27,480 --> 00:12:33,080 well. Thank you for your support to all of those who are on the dais as well as those 79 00:12:33,080 --> 00:12:37,520 in the audience. Thank you for your support of our students and families at Early College 80 00:12:37,520 --> 00:12:43,720 High School and within Round Rock ISD. We also have Austin Community College team 81 00:12:43,720 --> 00:12:49,660 members who are here with us. Representing today are Jason Sanchez, Director of High 82 00:12:49,660 --> 00:12:55,240 school programs, enrollment and partnership, if he would please stand. And we also have 83 00:12:55,240 --> 00:13:00,140 Devin Miller, who is our Interim Director of Academic Success, College and High School 84 00:13:00,140 --> 00:13:02,660 Relations. We can give them a round of applause. 85 00:13:09,090 --> 00:13:11,150 Without doubt, we must acknowledge our early 86 00:13:11,150 --> 00:13:16,330 college high school staff for all of their hard work and their dedication to our students. 87 00:13:16,750 --> 00:13:21,770 Would all of our ECHS teachers and staff please stand to be recognized? 88 00:13:35,950 --> 00:13:36,750 Thank you. 89 00:13:37,610 --> 00:13:44,430 We would also like to acknowledge our previous ECHS staff who are with us on this morning. 90 00:13:44,630 --> 00:13:48,950 If you are a previous ECHS staff member, can you also please stand to be recognized? 91 00:13:58,860 --> 00:14:05,980 We would like to acknowledge our ECHS PTSA board president, Mrs. Lynch, as well as 92 00:14:05,980 --> 00:14:11,580 our treasurer, Mrs. Reese, for their unending support of ECHS students and staff. 93 00:14:11,860 --> 00:14:13,960 Can you please stand to be recognized? 94 00:14:13,960 --> 00:14:15,040 In 95 00:14:22,810 --> 00:14:29,790 addition, on our PTSA side, the team that supports, we would like to do a special acknowledgement 96 00:14:29,790 --> 00:14:37,370 to Mr. and Mrs. Illich and the WD Kelly Foundation for all of their support of the ECHS school 97 00:14:37,370 --> 00:14:37,850 community. 98 00:14:38,090 --> 00:14:38,810 Can you please stand? 99 00:14:47,160 --> 00:14:51,400 I'm always thankful for my entire supportive village, and that includes my parents, 100 00:14:51,600 --> 00:14:57,020 my siblings, my best-goodest friend, my nieces and nephews, and today, of course, 101 00:14:57,020 --> 00:14:59,420 I have to acknowledge my sweet mom. 102 00:15:00,000 --> 00:15:03,040 Who is here? So Dr. Velma Wilson, would you please stand? 103 00:15:11,820 --> 00:15:18,140 Finally, we must thank our senior class parents for their love, their support, all of that 104 00:15:18,140 --> 00:15:23,160 which you have provided for your students as well as the partnership with Early College 105 00:15:23,160 --> 00:15:27,820 High School. Would the parents of our seniors please stand to be recognized? 106 00:15:41,840 --> 00:15:42,580 Thank you 107 00:15:42,580 --> 00:15:47,280 all for being here and making a difference in the lives of our students in the class 108 00:15:47,280 --> 00:15:53,360 of 2025. Now with opening remarks, please join me in welcoming our student council 109 00:15:53,360 --> 00:15:55,760 president Truman Hamade. 110 00:16:10,360 --> 00:16:17,080 Howdy everyone, and good morning. I'd like to give a warm 111 00:16:17,080 --> 00:16:24,220 welcome to our guests, faculty and staff, proud parents, and most importantly, the 112 00:16:24,220 --> 00:16:26,220 graduating class of 2025. 113 00:16:32,490 --> 00:16:34,690 Thank you for being here to celebrate this 114 00:16:34,690 --> 00:16:35,930 significant milestone of ours. 115 00:16:36,790 --> 00:16:39,970 My name is Truman Hamadeh, and I'd like to start off by saying 116 00:16:39,970 --> 00:16:42,310 what an incredible honor it's been to share this journey 117 00:16:42,310 --> 00:16:45,270 with all of you over the past four years. 118 00:16:46,650 --> 00:16:49,950 During our time in high school, you may have known me as a friend, 119 00:16:50,310 --> 00:16:51,890 entrusted me to be class president, 120 00:16:52,350 --> 00:16:54,490 or even voted to make me your prom king. 121 00:16:55,210 --> 00:16:57,250 For every laugh, every conversation, 122 00:16:58,130 --> 00:16:59,950 every unforgivable experience we shared, 123 00:17:00,750 --> 00:17:02,490 I'm deeply grateful. 124 00:17:03,410 --> 00:17:14,270 I truly believe there couldn't have been a more talented, more interesting, and more extraordinary group to be alongside during those moments than y'all. 125 00:17:16,500 --> 00:17:22,500 Soon we'll all be heading down our own paths, each one far too unique and exciting for me to try and sum up here. 126 00:17:23,220 --> 00:17:24,980 Believe me, I tried. 127 00:17:27,320 --> 00:17:33,980 Yet, despite the diverging roads that face us, there's an underlying principle that they all hold the same. 128 00:17:33,980 --> 00:17:40,800 To illustrate this shared inevitability, I'd like to bring up some wise words from another 129 00:17:40,800 --> 00:17:42,380 handsome president named Truman. 130 00:17:46,010 --> 00:17:51,550 Now on President Harry S. Truman's desks, there was a little sign which read, the buck 131 00:17:51,550 --> 00:17:52,410 stops here. 132 00:17:53,370 --> 00:17:58,030 It proudly sat on the desk of him throughout his entire presidency. 133 00:17:58,970 --> 00:18:04,630 This age-old saying signifies taking full ownership of your actions and the consequences 134 00:18:04,630 --> 00:18:09,410 they carry. The plaque served as a powerful reminder that he accepted 135 00:18:09,410 --> 00:18:14,430 ultimate responsibility for all decisions, refusing to pass that buck of 136 00:18:14,430 --> 00:18:16,270 accountability to anyone else. 137 00:18:19,030 --> 00:18:22,210 Crossing this graduation stage right here marks 138 00:18:22,210 --> 00:18:28,350 our step into a world where the choices we make are entirely our own. A world 139 00:18:28,350 --> 00:18:33,370 that won't let you put that massive responsibility on anybody but yourself. 140 00:18:33,370 --> 00:18:39,970 self. But even as you carry that weight, I want you to know that the path you walk will 141 00:18:39,970 --> 00:18:46,110 never be a lonely one. Whether it's your parents, your teachers, your friends, or anyone who's 142 00:18:46,110 --> 00:18:54,110 had your back, all these years, someone will always be in your corner. So keep going, keep 143 00:18:54,110 --> 00:18:59,430 fighting, take the time to celebrate how far you've come, cherish the memories, hug 144 00:18:59,430 --> 00:19:04,450 your parents and hold those diplomas up high, as well as those associate's degrees, 145 00:19:06,570 --> 00:19:07,310 because 146 00:19:07,910 --> 00:19:08,810 you've earned it. 147 00:19:09,690 --> 00:19:13,230 I can't know for sure what life will take us, but I'm certain of this. 148 00:19:14,090 --> 00:19:18,750 Each and every one of you is capable of something incredibly special. 149 00:19:19,570 --> 00:19:25,830 Wherever you go from here, I just want you to remember, the buck stops with you. 150 00:19:26,770 --> 00:19:27,530 Thank you. 151 00:19:38,750 --> 00:19:39,510 Thank you, Chairman. 152 00:19:40,290 --> 00:19:44,190 I'm Helen Holmes. It is my honor to recognize the achievements of the senior 153 00:19:44,190 --> 00:19:50,590 class of 2025. Your program explains the meetings of the Stoll, Stoll's collars 154 00:19:50,590 --> 00:19:55,430 and cords of distinction worn by our students today. Students donning a 155 00:19:55,430 --> 00:19:58,970 white Stoll and white tassel have completed an associate of arts degree 156 00:19:58,970 --> 00:20:03,490 in general studies and students wearing a white Stoll and gold tassel have 157 00:20:03,490 --> 00:20:06,930 completed an associate of science degree in general studies for Mossden 158 00:20:06,930 --> 00:20:12,990 Community College, both rigorous degree plans. Please stand to be recognized as an associate 159 00:20:12,990 --> 00:20:14,490 of arts degree graduate. 160 00:20:18,640 --> 00:20:19,360 Please 161 00:20:28,320 --> 00:20:31,820 stand to be recognized as an associate of science degree 162 00:20:31,820 --> 00:20:32,320 graduate. 163 00:20:42,860 --> 00:20:46,560 Please stand to be recognized if you are graduating core complete at Austin 164 00:20:46,560 --> 00:20:47,340 Community College. 165 00:20:58,980 --> 00:21:03,580 Please stand to be recognized if you have earned 30 or more college credits. 166 00:21:03,580 --> 00:21:08,180 Thank you. 167 00:21:14,800 --> 00:21:19,900 We commend our honor graduates who have achieved a 4.0 or higher. Please stand 168 00:21:19,900 --> 00:21:21,800 to be recognized as an honor graduate. 169 00:21:33,930 --> 00:21:34,470 Thank you. 170 00:21:37,360 --> 00:21:39,320 National Honor Society members please 171 00:21:39,320 --> 00:21:39,760 stand. 172 00:21:47,380 --> 00:21:48,320 Thank you. 173 00:21:51,570 --> 00:21:55,670 Our National Merit Commended Scholars for the class of 2025 please stand 174 00:21:55,670 --> 00:21:56,330 to be recognized. 175 00:21:58,960 --> 00:22:03,300 Siri Bandem and Barat Sachdeva. Thank 176 00:22:07,910 --> 00:22:08,110 you. 177 00:22:10,270 --> 00:22:11,930 We acknowledge our National African 178 00:22:11,930 --> 00:22:18,090 American, First Generation, Hispanic, Indigenous and rural small town scholars. Please stand 179 00:22:18,090 --> 00:22:20,610 to be recognized as National College Board Scholars. 180 00:22:31,150 --> 00:22:33,370 Thank you. It is now my pleasure 181 00:22:33,370 --> 00:22:38,150 to introduce our Assistant Principal, Mrs. Angelica Ross, to present our top 10 graduates. 182 00:22:38,150 --> 00:22:38,730 At 183 00:22:46,440 --> 00:22:49,980 this time, we recognize our top 10 graduating seniors. 184 00:22:50,740 --> 00:22:55,760 As I call your name, please stand and remain standing until all have been recognized. 185 00:22:56,380 --> 00:23:01,620 We also invite your parents and family members to stand and remain standing when your name 186 00:23:01,620 --> 00:23:02,020 is called. 187 00:23:02,940 --> 00:23:04,700 Number 10, Gwendolyn Hannah. 188 00:23:11,580 --> 00:23:13,500 Number 9, Oz Dykeman. 189 00:23:20,460 --> 00:23:22,560 Number 8, Truman Hamade. 190 00:23:28,150 --> 00:23:30,270 Number 7, Madison Kim. 191 00:23:30,270 --> 00:23:31,390 number 192 00:23:36,860 --> 00:23:39,660 six Matthew Illian number 193 00:23:44,820 --> 00:23:46,200 five Sophia Reese 194 00:23:51,760 --> 00:23:55,220 number four Usman Khan number 195 00:24:00,150 --> 00:24:02,610 three Siri Bandem our 196 00:24:08,760 --> 00:24:12,300 early college high school salutatorian is Sarah Zavalletta 197 00:24:12,300 --> 00:24:13,200 our 198 00:24:20,970 --> 00:24:25,870 valedictorian for the early college high school class of 2025 is Christine 199 00:24:25,870 --> 00:24:27,410 Gibson you 200 00:24:43,570 --> 00:24:45,430 may be seated you 201 00:24:48,410 --> 00:24:49,790 may be seated thank you 202 00:24:55,580 --> 00:24:59,800 since starting four 203 00:24:59,800 --> 00:25:07,840 Four years ago, the class of 2025 has provided campus support, commendable volunteerism, and 204 00:25:07,840 --> 00:25:15,140 service on behalf of themselves, their classmates, ECHS students, and this school community. 205 00:25:15,880 --> 00:25:23,980 Our class of 2025 has dedicated over 3,991 hours of service to our community. 206 00:25:23,980 --> 00:25:25,080 Their 207 00:25:32,660 --> 00:25:37,860 individual and collective efforts have been purposeful, impactful, and have made 208 00:25:37,860 --> 00:25:38,320 a difference. 209 00:25:39,120 --> 00:25:42,060 The Class of 2025 is a group of achievers. 210 00:25:42,900 --> 00:25:48,060 The enrichment clubs and initiatives they have started both inside and outside of school 211 00:25:48,060 --> 00:25:54,880 reflect their creativity and have enhanced our campus culture, built school voice 212 00:25:54,880 --> 00:26:01,620 and advocacy and demonstrated the importance of service to others for future graduating 213 00:26:01,620 --> 00:26:09,340 classes. Even with the huge focus and commitment to academics along their path, this class 214 00:26:09,340 --> 00:26:17,500 of 2025 has still given back to the ECHS school community. Seniors, you have served 215 00:26:17,500 --> 00:26:25,560 as examples, mentors, friends for our ninth, tenth, and eleventh graders. You have been 216 00:26:25,560 --> 00:26:34,360 leaders, tutors, and representative voices. Jane Goodall said, what you do makes a difference, 217 00:26:34,940 --> 00:26:43,280 and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make. We believe you will make 218 00:26:43,280 --> 00:26:48,760 make a positive difference, given the outstanding work you've done within the early college 219 00:26:48,760 --> 00:26:55,280 high school community. As you continue on this journey, your inner circle may change 220 00:26:55,280 --> 00:27:02,520 over time. However, please remember that your parents love you. They will always be your 221 00:27:02,520 --> 00:27:09,400 biggest advocates and supporters. I must also acknowledge all of the teachers, once again, 222 00:27:09,400 --> 00:27:16,200 the staff, professors, and administrators that began with you and have supported you, 223 00:27:16,500 --> 00:27:22,940 instructed, advised, and cheered you on all along the way. We look forward to 224 00:27:22,940 --> 00:27:28,780 seeing what you will do and all you will become. We believe that each of you 225 00:27:28,780 --> 00:27:34,300 can help positively impact and change this world for the better. With 226 00:27:34,300 --> 00:27:41,300 As graduation comes responsibility, to whom much is given, much is required. 227 00:27:42,260 --> 00:27:48,500 As I have shared with our previous graduating classes, we welcome you to become part of our 228 00:27:48,500 --> 00:27:50,980 Early College High School Alumni Association. 229 00:27:52,000 --> 00:27:58,340 For everything that has been poured into you, my closing request is to pass it on. 230 00:27:58,980 --> 00:28:02,280 Give it back and share about your experiences. 231 00:28:02,280 --> 00:28:02,820 Thank you so much for joining 232 00:28:02,820 --> 00:28:02,840 me in this session. 233 00:28:02,960 --> 00:28:04,900 Ladies and gentlemen, please 234 00:28:04,900 --> 00:28:07,240 join me in saluting the 235 00:28:07,240 --> 00:28:10,020 Round Rock ISD, excuse me, yes, 236 00:28:10,380 --> 00:28:12,360 and early college high school 237 00:28:12,360 --> 00:28:14,500 class of 2025. 238 00:28:26,540 --> 00:28:28,400 The next part of our program 239 00:28:28,400 --> 00:28:29,960 will be class messages. 240 00:28:30,760 --> 00:28:32,460 The first message is from the 241 00:28:32,460 --> 00:28:33,720 salutatorian of the early 242 00:28:33,720 --> 00:28:35,680 college high school class of 243 00:28:38,840 --> 00:28:40,140 to the podium. 244 00:28:48,020 --> 00:28:48,740 Hello class of 245 00:28:48,740 --> 00:28:50,640 2025 and welcome family and 246 00:28:50,640 --> 00:28:52,520 guests. Congratulations everybody 247 00:28:52,520 --> 00:28:54,580 we made it. It is my honor to 248 00:28:54,580 --> 00:28:55,440 speak as our class 249 00:28:55,440 --> 00:28:57,240 salutatorian. I would like to 250 00:28:57,240 --> 00:28:58,460 thank God for all the amazing 251 00:28:58,460 --> 00:28:59,860 people he's put in my life these 252 00:28:59,860 --> 00:29:01,660 past four years. People like my 253 00:29:01,660 --> 00:29:02,580 parents for their loving 254 00:29:02,580 --> 00:29:04,480 guidance my sisters Rachel and 255 00:29:04,480 --> 00:29:05,700 Natalie for always keeping me 256 00:29:05,700 --> 00:29:07,720 grounded and my classmates who 257 00:29:07,720 --> 00:29:09,060 became very close friends 258 00:29:09,060 --> 00:29:14,420 Rebecca, Rachel, and Naomi. You guys are the reason I loved coming to school. My 259 00:29:14,420 --> 00:29:17,900 kindergarten teacher came to watch me graduate today, so a huge thank you and 260 00:29:17,900 --> 00:29:20,460 shout out to Ms. TJ. You started my educational journey. 261 00:29:25,920 --> 00:29:26,520 Just like every 262 00:29:26,520 --> 00:29:30,160 senior here, 13 years ago, we walked through our kindergarten classroom doors 263 00:29:30,160 --> 00:29:34,600 and this morning we're all sitting here together graduating high school. Our 264 00:29:34,600 --> 00:29:38,380 ECHS staff has always cheered us on. Thank you to every teacher and 265 00:29:38,380 --> 00:29:42,620 administrator for your help and support. I would like to specifically thank Mr. 266 00:29:42,620 --> 00:29:47,540 Kuba check for teaching us seas get degrees coach Meyer for being an amazing 267 00:29:47,540 --> 00:29:51,480 listener and pals teacher miss Picasso for being the sweetest teacher I ever 268 00:29:51,480 --> 00:29:56,000 had and an awesome Zoom instructor miss Holmes for being my strongest advocate 269 00:29:56,000 --> 00:29:59,840 during college admission season and of course mr. Clint skills for 270 00:30:00,000 --> 00:30:01,700 We are truly caring and pushing us all to succeed. 271 00:30:02,960 --> 00:30:07,220 Mr. Clint Scales gave us many bits of wisdom, or as some of us call them, rants and avid. 272 00:30:08,040 --> 00:30:12,340 He said, when we graduate and move to college, we have the opportunity to reinvent ourselves, 273 00:30:12,620 --> 00:30:15,080 because no one will know us when we leave ECHS. 274 00:30:15,880 --> 00:30:18,380 I think the idea of reinventing ourselves is inevitable. 275 00:30:19,040 --> 00:30:21,420 We have so many more life experiences ahead of us. 276 00:30:21,820 --> 00:30:26,040 Since our kindergarten years, we've given up on some silly ideas, and with some humility 277 00:30:26,040 --> 00:30:29,280 and wisdom were likely to change some of the silly ideas we have here today. 278 00:30:30,200 --> 00:30:33,540 One thing I hope we don't reinvent is our love-hate relationship with the portables 279 00:30:33,540 --> 00:30:37,860 that allowed us all to become closer as friends. Our class of 2025 280 00:30:37,860 --> 00:30:42,060 is the largest class to graduate ECHS. There are many things 281 00:30:42,060 --> 00:30:45,400 that make our class special, but here are the stories I'll be telling my college friends. 282 00:30:46,400 --> 00:30:49,860 We were the last class to have shown up literally before the sun freshman year, 283 00:30:50,040 --> 00:30:53,760 so nobody signed up for an 8am lecture. One of my favorite memories 284 00:30:53,760 --> 00:30:57,100 memories is learning that playing volleyball at lunch can actually be quite dangerous. 285 00:30:57,720 --> 00:31:01,780 I know we all remember the portables and people we hit. If I remember right, three of them 286 00:31:01,780 --> 00:31:06,800 had to go to the dentist. I'm so sorry. And of course, the portable culture that 287 00:31:06,800 --> 00:31:11,440 banded us all together. The pipe that burst, the skunk under the girls bathroom, and running 288 00:31:11,440 --> 00:31:15,920 through the rain and hopefully not slipping on portable ramps. And I hope we all remember 289 00:31:15,920 --> 00:31:20,580 and cherish the memories we made at our senior prom. Everyone here is so proud 290 00:31:20,580 --> 00:31:24,980 of us for making it to graduation. I know I had senioritis this last semester, as did 291 00:31:24,980 --> 00:31:29,760 most of us. Some of us even had those freshmen, but we made it to graduation, which is a huge 292 00:31:29,760 --> 00:31:34,040 accomplishment. The seniors here are some of the most dedicated 17 and 18 year olds 293 00:31:34,040 --> 00:31:38,240 in our district. Four years ago, we started our journey of getting an associate's degree, 294 00:31:38,380 --> 00:31:42,720 and today that decision is finally paying off. I know that in the next four years, 295 00:31:42,940 --> 00:31:46,080 we will continue to stay dedicated to our goals and continue to butter ourselves. 296 00:31:46,740 --> 00:31:51,020 I'm praying for us all to succeed and our college and career path will be starting in a few months. 297 00:31:51,840 --> 00:31:54,880 A friendly reminder to everyone, enjoy your senior summer. 298 00:31:55,280 --> 00:31:57,460 It's the last one we'll have before real adult responsibilities. 299 00:31:58,300 --> 00:32:01,020 We've been planning for graduation and college this past year, 300 00:32:01,280 --> 00:32:04,440 so let's fully take in this moment and live in the moment during our senior summer. 301 00:32:05,280 --> 00:32:08,780 Finally, I hope we can all reunite next year when the new building is open 302 00:32:08,780 --> 00:32:10,440 and watch our portables being towed away. 303 00:32:10,880 --> 00:32:13,240 Thank you so much and congratulations again. 304 00:32:13,240 --> 00:32:13,360 Thank 305 00:32:21,260 --> 00:32:31,340 you, Sarah. Our second class message is from the valedictorian of the ECHS class of 2025, Christine Gibson. 306 00:32:32,200 --> 00:32:33,820 Please welcome Christine. 307 00:32:34,220 --> 00:32:34,780 I'm 308 00:32:40,450 --> 00:32:47,170 blessed with the honor, but also the privilege of speaking to you today as your valedictorian. 309 00:32:47,750 --> 00:32:54,110 Because I stand among some of the most accomplished people and some of the hardest workers I have ever met. 310 00:32:54,110 --> 00:33:01,270 I want to thank God and my family, especially my mother because I never would have been here without you. 311 00:33:01,970 --> 00:33:05,390 If you're anything like me, all of your countdowns are now at zero. 312 00:33:06,290 --> 00:33:08,830 The mad dash to the finish line is finally over. 313 00:33:09,790 --> 00:33:11,970 The ribbon now lies in half on the ground. 314 00:33:12,810 --> 00:33:14,110 It's the day we've all been waiting for. 315 00:33:14,790 --> 00:33:19,190 Today, the early college high school class of 2025 is graduating. 316 00:33:20,070 --> 00:33:23,810 life being life as we celebrate the end of one countdown all the others keep 317 00:33:23,810 --> 00:33:29,110 ticking some to our delight and others to our dismay and despite all of this I 318 00:33:29,110 --> 00:33:33,090 want to invite you to pause in the pursuit of time the swiftest runner of 319 00:33:33,090 --> 00:33:38,150 all and let's look back look around and look forward as we're together one last 320 00:33:38,150 --> 00:33:43,670 time when I think back to the past three years we were different people if I 321 00:33:43,670 --> 00:33:46,850 think hard enough I remember long bus rides as we slept on our way to 322 00:33:46,850 --> 00:33:49,290 school, very good early risers. 323 00:33:49,970 --> 00:33:52,270 I think of us dodging volleyball in the Amphitheater. 324 00:33:52,470 --> 00:33:54,230 And even a time when there was three lunches 325 00:33:54,230 --> 00:33:56,570 and even fewer cares, we didn't know it. 326 00:33:56,730 --> 00:33:58,950 But passion was bumbling underneath the surface. 327 00:33:59,790 --> 00:34:03,230 And because of that passion, during our time at ECHS, 328 00:34:03,270 --> 00:34:05,950 I had the opportunity of meeting artists like Jasmine 329 00:34:06,710 --> 00:34:07,290 and Sam. 330 00:34:07,770 --> 00:34:10,090 I met three dancers who committed countless hours 331 00:34:10,090 --> 00:34:11,050 to their art form. 332 00:34:11,550 --> 00:34:13,630 I met Olympic weight lifters like Usman. 333 00:34:13,630 --> 00:34:19,710 I met creatives like Sterling and later Aiden, who would turn mere assignments into masterpieces. 334 00:34:20,190 --> 00:34:24,470 And I realize now that passion was what defined each and every one of us all the while. 335 00:34:25,290 --> 00:34:29,570 It was passion that propelled Spillers as he sprinted through the classroom at 9 a.m. 336 00:34:29,650 --> 00:34:33,870 because caffeine could never, never, or wags to talk about parasites 337 00:34:33,870 --> 00:34:36,610 as if they were plushies with a smile on her face. 338 00:34:37,310 --> 00:34:41,290 And that same passion made Portable 376A Star Wars on one side, 339 00:34:41,290 --> 00:34:46,750 physics on the other and kubichuk all around. And as I watch you thrive I learned that passion 340 00:34:46,750 --> 00:34:52,210 is multifaceted. Looking around today there's so many faces that should have been here but 341 00:34:52,210 --> 00:34:58,110 aren't and so many that started with us and ended elsewhere. There's so many that 342 00:34:58,110 --> 00:35:02,730 didn't start with us and are now an integral part of our class. And so we look today 343 00:35:03,360 --> 00:35:07,610 we see that there's so many people who brought us where we are. On the behalf of the class 344 00:35:07,610 --> 00:35:13,150 As of 2025, I want to thank our trustees and Dr. Aziz for working to help us realize 345 00:35:13,150 --> 00:35:18,570 that there is a vision to create innovative solutions for students and helping us to improve 346 00:35:18,570 --> 00:35:21,030 it and expand it despite all the rainy days along the way. 347 00:35:21,670 --> 00:35:27,050 And I'd like to thank the devoted staff members of ECHS because your passion is what sets 348 00:35:27,050 --> 00:35:30,610 ECHS culture apart from other schools time and time again. 349 00:35:31,450 --> 00:35:35,590 You deliberately chose a path of greatest resistance with the hope of changing just 350 00:35:35,590 --> 00:35:36,170 one life. 351 00:35:36,170 --> 00:35:37,990 and I want to let you know that you did. 352 00:35:38,430 --> 00:35:39,110 You changed ours. 353 00:35:40,390 --> 00:35:42,450 And so know that you've impacted the class of 25 354 00:35:42,450 --> 00:35:44,530 and we are grateful to be on the receiving end 355 00:35:44,530 --> 00:35:45,290 of such kindness. 356 00:35:46,230 --> 00:35:48,010 This auditorium is packed full of parents, 357 00:35:48,230 --> 00:35:49,930 guardians and friends and loved ones 358 00:35:49,930 --> 00:35:51,710 because our class does not have those numbers. 359 00:35:52,510 --> 00:35:54,230 And we want to thank you for the sacrifices 360 00:35:54,230 --> 00:35:55,510 that you made to bring us here. 361 00:35:56,070 --> 00:35:57,830 When I look at my peers, I realize 362 00:35:57,830 --> 00:35:59,530 that everything we need going forward, 363 00:35:59,630 --> 00:36:00,690 we have within us already. 364 00:36:01,710 --> 00:36:03,310 For example, I see Cameron, 365 00:36:03,310 --> 00:36:07,910 A true feminist who taught me that we stand upon the shoulders of giants and need to continue 366 00:36:07,910 --> 00:36:09,250 to build their work going forward. 367 00:36:09,930 --> 00:36:15,130 I think of Evan and Barat, mighting their few words but full of life if you ever take time 368 00:36:15,130 --> 00:36:15,550 to listen. 369 00:36:15,950 --> 00:36:18,450 And they taught me that passion may not always be loud and vocal. 370 00:36:19,110 --> 00:36:21,510 It's also chipping away at the task at hand with dedication. 371 00:36:22,410 --> 00:36:27,610 I think of Travion, a master of Manson subtle arts reminding me that occasionally we need 372 00:36:27,610 --> 00:36:28,070 to let go. 373 00:36:28,070 --> 00:36:31,410 And Carmen and Myla, the importance of friendship, 374 00:36:31,910 --> 00:36:34,330 Audrey, creativity and calculus can happen. 375 00:36:35,150 --> 00:36:37,490 I think of Magnus, passion can be hidden, 376 00:36:37,790 --> 00:36:39,390 not always what people might think it is. 377 00:36:39,970 --> 00:36:42,490 Or Ethan, that passion can be practical as well. 378 00:36:42,810 --> 00:36:44,970 Or Elijah, that our hobbies should be cultivated 379 00:36:44,970 --> 00:36:46,150 just as much as our earning potential. 380 00:36:47,170 --> 00:36:48,390 And so looking into the future, 381 00:36:48,770 --> 00:36:49,890 it's like looking into the sun. 382 00:36:50,350 --> 00:36:52,830 It hurts, it's blinding, but for some weird reason 383 00:36:53,270 --> 00:36:55,030 we keep looking at it, even though we can't even see it. 384 00:36:55,490 --> 00:36:59,950 And so in the society where the world seems to be descending into chaos at every turn, 385 00:37:00,090 --> 00:37:01,510 passion is what will take us forward. 386 00:37:02,270 --> 00:37:07,830 When I look ahead, I see astrophysicists, I see game designers, doctors, nurses, I see mechanics, politicians, 387 00:37:08,550 --> 00:37:11,830 engineers, chemists, leaders, creative innovators, business leaders. 388 00:37:12,810 --> 00:37:14,290 I see forces to be reckoned with. 389 00:37:14,990 --> 00:37:18,690 And if I squint hard enough, I think I see a reunion, but it's pretty faint. 390 00:37:19,350 --> 00:37:24,050 And whether or not we reunite, we've already begun to change the future in ways we may never know 391 00:37:24,050 --> 00:37:25,850 and in places we may never go. 392 00:37:26,670 --> 00:37:29,870 I'm sure many of us will receive grad gifts today 393 00:37:29,870 --> 00:37:32,170 and even give some, but let's not forget 394 00:37:32,170 --> 00:37:33,570 one of the greatest gifts we've been given 395 00:37:33,570 --> 00:37:36,410 during our time at ECHS, and that's time. 396 00:37:37,290 --> 00:37:39,770 Whether it's two years, 20 credits, or two seconds, 397 00:37:40,370 --> 00:37:41,590 we've been given a head start. 398 00:37:42,350 --> 00:37:43,910 Can we ever catch up to time? 399 00:37:44,210 --> 00:37:46,850 Not that I know of, but we've been given 400 00:37:46,850 --> 00:37:47,750 a head start in the race. 401 00:37:48,450 --> 00:37:50,890 One day, we'll ask the same question we're asking today, 402 00:37:51,550 --> 00:37:52,510 where did all the time go? 403 00:37:52,510 --> 00:37:58,310 but today we celebrate as Dr. Wilson mentioned earlier it said that to who 404 00:37:58,310 --> 00:38:01,890 much is given much is expected and interestingly enough we don't always 405 00:38:01,890 --> 00:38:07,090 seem to meet expectations sometimes we fall short other times we exceed them 406 00:38:07,090 --> 00:38:11,290 my personal favorite is when we redefined them and that's the thing 407 00:38:11,290 --> 00:38:14,550 about our class we've never settled for what was handed to us as will be 408 00:38:14,550 --> 00:38:18,870 proved today we kept knocking kept emailing kept pushing until something 409 00:38:18,870 --> 00:38:25,270 moved until something shifted. And that's the story of the class of 25. We don't just meet 410 00:38:25,270 --> 00:38:33,370 expectations. We challenge them. We raise them. And having looked in, around, and ahead 411 00:38:33,370 --> 00:38:39,410 of ourselves today, I thank you once more and encourage us to be people. More than just 412 00:38:39,410 --> 00:38:44,730 passionate people, but people of passion. People driven by an inner force, one that 413 00:38:44,730 --> 00:38:46,310 propels through opposition knowing there's 414 00:38:46,310 --> 00:38:47,350 a cause worth pursuing. 415 00:38:48,190 --> 00:38:49,630 Not just people who take up space, 416 00:38:50,210 --> 00:38:52,370 but people who shake up the spaces that they're in. 417 00:38:53,230 --> 00:38:55,830 The countdown may be at zero, but we're not out of time. 418 00:38:56,630 --> 00:38:58,130 It's just simply time to begin. 419 00:39:12,860 --> 00:39:14,640 Thank you, Christine, for your lovely words. 420 00:39:15,220 --> 00:39:17,880 We will now begin awarding diplomas to our graduates. 421 00:39:19,000 --> 00:39:21,680 Today is for celebration of our students 422 00:39:21,680 --> 00:39:25,120 and their families, but it is also a ceremony 423 00:39:25,120 --> 00:39:27,940 and it deserves its due respect. 424 00:39:28,780 --> 00:39:30,320 Please extend the same courtesy 425 00:39:30,320 --> 00:39:32,500 to the last senior honored as the first. 426 00:39:33,320 --> 00:39:36,020 At this time, with the top 10 graduates 427 00:39:36,020 --> 00:39:38,420 and our graduation program participants, 428 00:39:38,860 --> 00:39:41,360 please proceed down the ramp to my right, 429 00:39:41,680 --> 00:39:44,400 to your seats for the validation of candidacy. 430 00:40:03,220 --> 00:40:05,320 I have the great honor of introducing 431 00:40:05,320 --> 00:40:08,700 Dr. Hafed Aziz, Superintendent of Schools, 432 00:40:09,080 --> 00:40:11,380 to certify our class of 2025. 433 00:40:12,380 --> 00:40:18,240 Students, please stand and remain standing during the validation of candidacy. 434 00:40:33,760 --> 00:40:38,420 The class of 2025, Starr Kindergarten back in 2012. 435 00:40:39,260 --> 00:40:42,760 That was the year LeBron James won his first MBA title. 436 00:40:43,980 --> 00:40:46,440 And the iPhone 5 was the hottest thing around. 437 00:40:47,580 --> 00:40:53,700 I know a lot has changed since then, including our graduates who have grown into smart, 438 00:40:53,700 --> 00:41:00,040 resilient and inspiring people. Now the young adults before you today are the 439 00:41:00,040 --> 00:41:05,760 voices of tomorrow's progress and innovation. They are our future scientists, 440 00:41:06,720 --> 00:41:14,200 educators, artists, entrepreneurs, developers, explorers, and leaders. 441 00:41:16,300 --> 00:41:18,740 Graduates, enjoy today. 442 00:41:19,540 --> 00:41:22,960 We are cheering on as you take your next steps. 443 00:41:23,900 --> 00:41:25,020 We believe in you. 444 00:41:25,740 --> 00:41:29,320 We are proud of you, and we will miss you. 445 00:41:30,560 --> 00:41:36,100 And so by the authority vested in me by the state of Texas and the Round Rock Independent 446 00:41:36,100 --> 00:41:41,920 School District, I certify to the Board of Trustees that all students who have met 447 00:41:41,920 --> 00:41:43,800 at their graduation requirements are 448 00:41:43,800 --> 00:41:46,220 bi-illegible to receive their high school diploma. 449 00:41:47,000 --> 00:41:49,460 Congratulations to the class of 2025. 450 00:41:49,880 --> 00:41:50,440 You did it. 451 00:42:02,330 --> 00:42:04,010 Thank you, Dr. Aziz. 452 00:42:04,510 --> 00:42:05,690 Seniors, you may be seated. 453 00:42:07,450 --> 00:42:10,810 Will the first row please stand and prepare 454 00:42:10,810 --> 00:42:12,870 to receive your diplomas. 455 00:42:13,470 --> 00:42:16,350 Now to assist with the presentation of the graduates 456 00:42:16,350 --> 00:42:19,690 will be our ECHS counseling team, Dr. Valerie 457 00:42:19,690 --> 00:42:21,670 Lozier, Ms. Helen Holmes. 458 00:42:21,670 --> 00:42:28,530 each senior's name will be called along with a special statement each wanted to 459 00:42:28,530 --> 00:42:34,590 share. As mentioned by a Mrs. Ross we ask that you please refrain from prolonged 460 00:42:34,590 --> 00:42:39,050 cheering during this celebration as the noise may drown out the names and 461 00:42:39,050 --> 00:42:43,950 special statements from each senior. At this time will our board, our 462 00:42:43,950 --> 00:42:47,910 superintendent, please get into your positions and we will begin the 463 00:42:47,910 --> 00:42:49,210 awarding of the diplomas. 464 00:43:22,420 --> 00:43:26,120 Number one in the class are valedictorian, Christine 465 00:43:26,640 --> 00:43:27,840 Masoma Gibson. 466 00:43:28,980 --> 00:43:32,140 Christine will be attending Syracuse University 467 00:43:32,540 --> 00:43:35,460 to earn her bachelor's in sociology and master's 468 00:43:35,460 --> 00:43:37,420 in public administration simultaneously 469 00:43:37,900 --> 00:43:39,940 before advancing to law school to work 470 00:43:39,940 --> 00:43:43,400 in non-profit administration and council in the future. 471 00:43:43,960 --> 00:43:46,680 She wants to thank her very own mother for everything, 472 00:43:47,020 --> 00:43:48,940 her family for their incessant support, 473 00:43:48,940 --> 00:43:53,720 support, her friends who kept her sane, Dr. Logier for being her cheerleader, and every 474 00:43:53,720 --> 00:43:56,800 teacher and mentor who played a role in the story of her life. 475 00:44:03,060 --> 00:44:07,480 Number two in the class are salutatorian Sarah Zavallera. 476 00:44:09,000 --> 00:44:14,400 Sarah will be attending Texas Christian University to pursue a specialty nursing degree. 477 00:44:23,220 --> 00:44:26,880 Number three in the class, Siri Sahasra Bandham. 478 00:44:26,880 --> 00:44:33,040 Siri will attend the University of Texas at Austin majoring in biomedical engineering. 479 00:44:33,540 --> 00:44:35,820 She will be pursuing a career in the health care. 480 00:44:42,690 --> 00:44:45,890 Number four in the class, Usman Ali Khan. 481 00:44:46,910 --> 00:44:51,130 Usman will attend the University of Texas at Austin majoring in biology 482 00:44:51,130 --> 00:44:53,230 and eventually going to medical school. 483 00:45:05,550 --> 00:45:13,030 Number five in the class, Sophia Artemisia Reis. Sophia will be attending Loyola University, 484 00:45:13,690 --> 00:45:18,890 Chicago, on a presidential scholarship and will be majoring in political science. She will 485 00:45:18,890 --> 00:45:23,650 also be dancing with Balli Austin as a member of their studio company. Sophia would like 486 00:45:23,650 --> 00:45:27,930 to thank her family for their continuous support and encouragement to pursue her passions 487 00:45:27,930 --> 00:45:31,310 as well as paying for her numerous piles of point shoes. 488 00:45:36,000 --> 00:45:38,320 Number six in the class, Matthew 489 00:45:38,320 --> 00:45:45,140 Thomas Illian. Matthew will attend Texas State University to pursue a degree in 490 00:45:45,140 --> 00:45:47,820 communication and eventually go to seminary. 491 00:45:54,810 --> 00:45:56,170 Number seven in the class 492 00:45:56,170 --> 00:46:04,110 Madison Jane Kim. Madison will attend Case Western Reserve University and 493 00:46:04,110 --> 00:46:05,890 will major in aerospace engineering. 494 00:46:13,430 --> 00:46:15,990 Number eight in the class Truman James 495 00:46:15,990 --> 00:46:23,330 James Hamade. Truman will be attending Texas A&M University and major in Electrical Engineering. 496 00:46:30,810 --> 00:46:37,790 Number nine in the class, Oz Deichmann. Oz will be attending the University of Texas 497 00:46:37,790 --> 00:46:43,170 at Austin and major in Arts and Entertainment Technologies. They appreciate the teachers, 498 00:46:43,410 --> 00:46:47,350 professors, family and friends who have supported their high school journey in pursuit 499 00:46:47,350 --> 00:46:48,390 of higher education. 500 00:46:52,120 --> 00:46:53,720 Number 10 in the class, 501 00:46:54,360 --> 00:46:55,700 Gwendolyn Joyce Hanna. 502 00:46:56,440 --> 00:46:57,780 Gwen will attend 503 00:46:57,920 --> 00:46:59,920 Toulton University to pursue 504 00:46:59,920 --> 00:47:01,760 a kinesiology degree. 505 00:47:02,360 --> 00:47:03,720 She wants to thank her parents 506 00:47:03,720 --> 00:47:04,680 for all their support. 507 00:47:11,040 --> 00:47:12,920 Jonathan Lucas Abels. 508 00:47:13,860 --> 00:47:15,520 John will be pursuing 509 00:47:15,520 --> 00:47:16,920 a career in computer 510 00:47:17,540 --> 00:47:18,540 IT management. 511 00:47:23,940 --> 00:47:25,200 Ahmed Almamore. 512 00:47:28,690 --> 00:47:30,670 Ahmed will attend Texas State 513 00:47:30,670 --> 00:47:35,590 Right next year and major in mechanical engineering, he wants to thank his mom, dad, and family 514 00:47:35,590 --> 00:47:36,570 for supporting him. 515 00:47:41,330 --> 00:47:47,150 Malek Maud Alouakfi Malek will be attending UT San Antonio and pursue 516 00:47:47,150 --> 00:47:48,690 a degree in computer science. 517 00:47:53,680 --> 00:47:59,400 Ethan Dale Anderson Ethan will be attending Universal Technical 518 00:47:59,400 --> 00:48:01,360 Institute to be a mechanic. 519 00:48:01,800 --> 00:48:05,020 To those he loves, he says, thanks for sticking around. 520 00:48:08,250 --> 00:48:10,990 Bearington Andrew Batchelor. 521 00:48:13,490 --> 00:48:16,990 Bearington will be attending Howard University in 522 00:48:16,990 --> 00:48:22,210 Washington DC to pursue a bachelor's and master's degree in economics 523 00:48:22,210 --> 00:48:22,950 simultaneously. 524 00:48:27,770 --> 00:48:33,590 Amira Azim Bhatti. Amira will attend the University of Texas at 525 00:48:33,590 --> 00:48:35,910 Dallas and major in mechanical engineering. 526 00:48:39,820 --> 00:48:41,700 Jackson Gregory Benford. 527 00:48:41,700 --> 00:48:47,220 Jacks will enlist in the United States Marine Corps and pursue a career in 528 00:48:47,220 --> 00:48:48,280 counterintelligence. 529 00:48:53,170 --> 00:48:58,070 Marceline Blevins. Marceline locked in and made it through 530 00:48:58,070 --> 00:49:01,030 her classes and looks toward a future overseas. 531 00:49:07,870 --> 00:49:12,190 Audrey Eliza Bollard. Audrey will 532 00:49:12,190 --> 00:49:16,310 attend the University of Texas at Austin and major in computer science. 533 00:49:20,560 --> 00:49:23,080 Lyndon Michael Brown. 534 00:49:24,080 --> 00:49:28,420 Lyndon will be pursuing a degree in business administration at UT Dallas. 535 00:49:29,080 --> 00:49:32,520 He wants to thank his parents for their unwavering love and support. 536 00:49:37,540 --> 00:49:39,940 Max Owen Bryant in absentia. 537 00:49:40,460 --> 00:49:46,280 Max will be attending the University of Texas Dallas for visual and performing arts with a focus on film. 538 00:49:51,030 --> 00:49:53,550 Bronson James O'Connor Burlson. 539 00:49:55,730 --> 00:50:01,230 Bronson is looking to pursue a major in computers and a minor in theatrical arts. 540 00:50:07,110 --> 00:50:08,870 Cameron Elizabeth Buza. 541 00:50:11,670 --> 00:50:16,590 Cameron will be majoring in mechanical engineering in the Ogden Honors College 542 00:50:16,590 --> 00:50:23,950 for mechanical engineering at Louisiana State University and will then pursue law school for a career in patent law. 543 00:50:27,890 --> 00:50:29,770 Angel Bustos. 544 00:50:30,070 --> 00:50:34,390 Angel will continue his studies at ACC in the area of writing. 545 00:50:43,080 --> 00:50:44,540 LaSophia Cantu. 546 00:50:46,640 --> 00:50:50,420 Myla will be attending the University of Texas San Antonio 547 00:50:50,420 --> 00:50:51,860 majoring in cybersecurity. 548 00:50:58,690 --> 00:51:01,070 Magnus Edmund Chidister. 549 00:51:02,810 --> 00:51:05,950 Magnus will attend Brigham Young University, Idaho, 550 00:51:06,370 --> 00:51:08,130 this fall, majoring in chemistry. 551 00:51:08,930 --> 00:51:12,050 He is grateful for the opportunities ECHS has provided 552 00:51:12,050 --> 00:51:16,110 and hopes that future graduating classes will have even more doors open to them. 553 00:51:21,320 --> 00:51:25,480 Selena, Ani, Kainani, Waimi, Chalk. 554 00:51:26,260 --> 00:51:30,420 Selena will attend Indiana University Bloomington next year 555 00:51:30,420 --> 00:51:32,780 and major in Human Resource Management. 556 00:51:33,680 --> 00:51:38,120 She would like to thank her parents, dogs and friends for their support to the past four years. 557 00:51:42,300 --> 00:51:44,260 William Joseph Daniels. 558 00:51:44,700 --> 00:51:48,780 William would like to thank everyone who has helped him throughout his high school. 559 00:51:48,780 --> 00:51:50,920 He will be advancing his education 560 00:51:50,920 --> 00:51:53,760 to achieve long-term academic and career goals. 561 00:51:59,650 --> 00:52:03,530 Addison Leila Renee Davis-Mini. 562 00:52:07,320 --> 00:52:10,040 Addison will be attending Texas State University 563 00:52:10,040 --> 00:52:11,900 along with her sisters and close friends. 564 00:52:12,240 --> 00:52:15,340 She will be pursuing a career in forensic psychology 565 00:52:15,820 --> 00:52:19,520 and wants to thank her family for being overwhelmingly supportive. 566 00:52:24,020 --> 00:52:25,400 Owen Michael Fields. 567 00:52:26,200 --> 00:52:29,280 Owen will be pursuing a degree in chemical engineering 568 00:52:29,280 --> 00:52:31,920 and a career as a process chemist. 569 00:52:38,540 --> 00:52:39,620 Evan Finch. 570 00:52:40,180 --> 00:52:43,500 Evan wants to thank his mom and dad for being supportive 571 00:52:43,500 --> 00:52:46,720 and always being there for him when he needed them the most. 572 00:52:47,120 --> 00:52:48,540 He will be taking a gap year. 573 00:52:54,560 --> 00:52:56,480 Rebecca Lynn Gephardt. 574 00:52:57,760 --> 00:52:59,860 Rebecca will be pursuing a degree 575 00:52:59,860 --> 00:53:02,900 in elementary education at Tarleton State University. 576 00:53:03,560 --> 00:53:06,040 She's deeply grateful to Senora Lucero, 577 00:53:06,500 --> 00:53:09,220 Mr. Clint Scales, David, her friends, 578 00:53:09,220 --> 00:53:14,760 especially Rachel Saraneumi and her family for their unwavering support, love and guidance. 579 00:53:18,750 --> 00:53:20,930 Nydia Sophia Goodrow. 580 00:53:22,770 --> 00:53:29,250 Sophia will be pursuing dance professionally while attending Texas State Online for a degree in education. 581 00:53:34,400 --> 00:53:36,320 Shanee Rachel Greenberg. 582 00:53:38,180 --> 00:53:42,900 Shanee is passionate about her Jewish faith and her connection to Israel. 583 00:53:42,900 --> 00:53:49,260 Well, next year she will attend Sharfman's, a religious seminary in Jerusalem, and hopes 584 00:53:49,260 --> 00:53:51,800 to pursue a career working with Jewish youth. 585 00:53:52,500 --> 00:53:57,520 Shani is incredibly grateful to God for placing her in such an incredible family and hopes 586 00:53:57,520 --> 00:53:59,200 to lead a life that makes them proud. 587 00:53:59,740 --> 00:54:04,240 She's also thankful for all her mentors, religious teachers, and counselor, Dr. Logier, 588 00:54:04,360 --> 00:54:06,060 for all their support, advice, and love. 589 00:54:10,300 --> 00:54:17,140 Riley Medrine Grigorsak Riley will attend Texas State next year 590 00:54:17,140 --> 00:54:21,720 and major in marketing, she would like to thank her mom, dad and little sister for always 591 00:54:21,720 --> 00:54:24,240 sticking with her through this journey no matter what. 592 00:54:28,570 --> 00:54:34,890 Devon Jeffrey Harris Devon will be going on to get his bachelor's 593 00:54:34,890 --> 00:54:38,530 and applied technologies to then pursue a career in the Coast Guard. 594 00:54:45,130 --> 00:54:50,790 Mosiah Stephen Hill Mosiah is grateful for all the experiences 595 00:54:50,790 --> 00:54:55,510 he's had to learn from and will be serving a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus 596 00:54:55,510 --> 00:54:57,010 the Scribes of Latter-day Saints. 597 00:55:02,660 --> 00:55:08,440 Jack Stone-Hillard. Jack will be taking a gap year. He would 598 00:55:08,440 --> 00:55:10,860 like to thank his friends for many good memories. 599 00:55:17,380 --> 00:55:19,560 Marina Veronica Icaro. 600 00:55:23,010 --> 00:55:24,190 Marina would like to 601 00:55:24,190 --> 00:55:29,050 thank the ECHS community, her friends and loved ones for believing in her when she couldn't 602 00:55:29,050 --> 00:55:34,190 believe in herself. She hopes to become a pediatric speech-language pathologist helping 603 00:55:34,190 --> 00:55:37,450 helping children build confidence and mentoring others along the way. 604 00:55:43,460 --> 00:55:45,460 Caitlin Elizabeth Illig. 605 00:55:47,340 --> 00:55:53,200 Caitlin will attend Texas A&M at College Station in the fall where she will be studying astrophysics. 606 00:55:53,920 --> 00:55:56,600 She would like to thank her parents for their endless support. 607 00:56:01,760 --> 00:56:03,480 Rayan Umar Javaid. 608 00:56:05,460 --> 00:56:10,080 Rayan will be attending ACC where he plans to pursue his passion in cybersecurity. 609 00:56:10,080 --> 00:56:16,440 He wants to thank all the teachers and peers who have helped him guide, who have helped guide him along the way. 610 00:56:17,060 --> 00:56:19,700 This is not the end of a journey, rather it is the start. 611 00:56:25,170 --> 00:56:26,790 Arsalan Ahmad Khan. 612 00:56:29,120 --> 00:56:33,660 Arsalan will be attending Houston Christian University in major in engineering. 613 00:56:34,340 --> 00:56:40,280 He wants to thank his mom for pushing him to be the best man he can be, always supporting him and loving him no matter what. 614 00:56:45,200 --> 00:56:47,100 Holden Christopher Kunkel. 615 00:56:49,720 --> 00:56:53,900 Holden will attend Texas State next year and major in computer science. 616 00:57:01,930 --> 00:57:02,930 Colton Klein. 617 00:57:06,460 --> 00:57:11,040 Colton will be pursuing a degree in sports management at the University of North Texas. 618 00:57:15,890 --> 00:57:18,490 Samantha Caridad-Machin-Rondon. 619 00:57:22,300 --> 00:57:26,280 Sam is looking forward to going to Texas State and majoring in social work 620 00:57:26,280 --> 00:57:29,860 and is grateful for her family and friends and teachers who've helped shape her. 621 00:57:30,480 --> 00:57:37,420 She gives special thanks to their past advisory teacher Mr. Spillers and the friends and advisory for always helping out. 622 00:57:41,940 --> 00:57:42,960 Vivian Martinez. 623 00:57:47,030 --> 00:57:52,390 Vivian will attend the University of Texas at San Antonio next year and major in criminal psychology. 624 00:57:57,960 --> 00:57:59,600 Forrest Sage McGeehan. 625 00:58:01,840 --> 00:58:05,360 Forrest will attend the University of North Texas next year and major in accounting. 626 00:58:09,340 --> 00:58:11,920 Aiden, James, Presley, McVeigh, 627 00:58:14,290 --> 00:58:17,230 Aiden will attend Texas State University next year in 628 00:58:17,230 --> 00:58:18,370 major in political science, 629 00:58:22,390 --> 00:58:28,650 Rhys Dura-Jay-Malice, Rhys will attend Texas A&M College Station 630 00:58:28,650 --> 00:58:31,370 and major in chemistry on the pre-med track, 631 00:58:35,420 --> 00:58:36,420 Felicity Mesa, 632 00:58:41,510 --> 00:58:42,770 Felicity will attend Princeton 633 00:58:42,770 --> 00:58:45,850 University this fall and will be studying astrophysics. 634 00:58:45,850 --> 00:58:49,810 She likes to thank her parents for being there every step of the way. 635 00:58:55,730 --> 00:58:57,550 Sammy, Amir, Mary. 636 00:59:02,060 --> 00:59:06,760 Sammy balanced his academic success with leadership, mentorship, and technical excellence. 637 00:59:07,580 --> 00:59:12,540 He had many passion projects, but his proudest was his AI program that he presented to Google 638 00:59:12,540 --> 00:59:16,860 and an online education course that generated $500,000 in revenue. 639 00:59:17,260 --> 00:59:23,340 Sammy will attend the ACC Samsung Engineering Academy with Texas A&M and major in computer engineering. 640 00:59:29,360 --> 00:59:31,020 Veronica Gale Mock. 641 00:59:36,020 --> 00:59:42,820 Veronica is attending Fisher College next year with a major in criminal justice and would like to thank friends and family for being there for her. 642 00:59:47,900 --> 00:59:49,020 Unita Mutambilike. 643 00:59:54,560 --> 00:59:59,660 Unita will be pursuing a career in medicine and wants to thank her family for their patience and support. 644 01:00:05,490 --> 01:00:06,950 Yossaira Mohammed. 645 01:00:09,940 --> 01:00:11,860 Yossaira would like to thank her family. 646 01:00:17,090 --> 01:00:18,030 Naomi Nathan. 647 01:00:21,660 --> 01:00:22,660 Naomi will be 648 01:00:22,660 --> 01:00:27,060 attending the University of Arkansas in the fall, majoring in political science. She 649 01:00:27,060 --> 01:00:30,860 would like to thank all her friends and family for all of their support over the 650 01:00:30,860 --> 01:00:31,600 last four years. 651 01:00:36,660 --> 01:00:37,740 Victor Nkemka. 652 01:00:41,300 --> 01:00:43,120 Victor would like to thank his family. 653 01:00:46,560 --> 01:00:46,900 Diego 654 01:00:46,900 --> 01:00:48,960 Roberto Ochoa Ramos. 655 01:00:52,590 --> 01:00:56,170 Diego will be pursuing a career in medicine at Southwestern 656 01:00:56,170 --> 01:00:56,610 University. 657 01:01:05,990 --> 01:01:08,330 Jasmine Elizabeth Paria Navarro. 658 01:01:15,810 --> 01:01:17,290 Jasmine will attend Texas State 659 01:01:17,290 --> 01:01:21,230 University and major in communication design. She would like to thank her mom 660 01:01:21,230 --> 01:01:22,470 and dad for all their support. 661 01:01:28,060 --> 01:01:29,160 Charmi Patel. 662 01:01:32,410 --> 01:01:34,070 Charmi wants to thank her family 663 01:01:34,070 --> 01:01:37,870 for giving her the opportunity for a better education and to thank everyone 664 01:01:37,870 --> 01:01:41,210 else for helping her graduate with a joyful high school experience. 665 01:01:46,720 --> 01:01:47,060 Elena 666 01:01:47,060 --> 01:01:48,320 Ren Patterson. 667 01:01:52,060 --> 01:01:55,760 Ren will attend Texas A&M San Antonio and major in computer 668 01:01:55,760 --> 01:01:59,860 science in the fall while continuing to accept commissions for making and 669 01:01:59,860 --> 01:02:02,560 selling candles and essential oil rollers while in college. 670 01:02:08,760 --> 01:02:09,720 Evan Ramundo 671 01:02:09,720 --> 01:02:10,880 Peña Decano. 672 01:02:16,410 --> 01:02:19,210 Evan will be pursuing a career in civil engineering. 673 01:02:25,680 --> 01:02:26,060 Carmen 674 01:02:26,060 --> 01:02:27,280 Perez Aquino. 675 01:02:30,800 --> 01:02:34,160 Carmen will be majoring in biology with a concentration in 676 01:02:34,160 --> 01:02:38,100 pre-med at the University of Texas at San Antonio in hopes of becoming an 677 01:02:38,100 --> 01:02:42,820 OBGYN. She would like to thank all her family and friends for getting her through these last 678 01:02:42,820 --> 01:02:51,580 four years, especially her mom. Gracias, mami, por todo lo que hace hecho por mi, en mi vida. Te amo muchísimo. 679 01:02:58,660 --> 01:02:59,940 Paul Pumpey Potts. 680 01:03:14,920 --> 01:03:18,560 Paul wants to thank his mother for always believing him and all the 681 01:03:18,560 --> 01:03:20,080 sacrifice she made for him. 682 01:03:25,960 --> 01:03:28,400 Elijah J. Charles Preston. 683 01:03:35,400 --> 01:03:37,460 Elijah wants to thank Senora 684 01:03:37,460 --> 01:03:39,820 Lacerro for unconditional help and support. 685 01:03:44,960 --> 01:03:46,000 Logan Pruitt. 686 01:03:49,040 --> 01:03:50,020 Logan will be 687 01:03:50,020 --> 01:03:52,940 attending Austin Community College to become a registered nurse. 688 01:03:59,110 --> 01:03:59,450 Merrick 689 01:03:59,450 --> 01:03:59,930 Pryor. 690 01:04:05,800 --> 01:04:09,300 Merrick will attend the University of Texas at San Antonio next year and 691 01:04:09,300 --> 01:04:13,360 major in kinesiology. He thanks his family for their love and support. 692 01:04:19,290 --> 01:04:23,950 Williams, sorry, sorry, Christopher William Richter. 693 01:04:30,740 --> 01:04:35,520 Chris wants to thank everyone who supported him throughout his time at early college. 694 01:04:36,040 --> 01:04:39,340 He and his spine are holding strong and full of hope for the future. 695 01:04:45,180 --> 01:04:46,460 Julia Robles. 696 01:04:50,560 --> 01:04:55,940 Julia would be attending, Julia would be pursuing a career in video game design 697 01:04:55,940 --> 01:04:59,620 and wants to thank her family for always being there and supporting her. 698 01:05:05,000 --> 01:05:08,220 Sterling, Josea, Flair, Rodriguez. 699 01:05:13,600 --> 01:05:17,640 Sterling wants to thank his mama, his family, and his friends for getting him through high school. 700 01:05:23,050 --> 01:05:24,470 Barca, Ruparel. 701 01:05:25,330 --> 01:05:32,090 Barca deferred her acceptance to NYU, Shanghai to spend the next year working overseas in absentia. 702 01:05:35,680 --> 01:05:36,540 Lauren, Rut. 703 01:05:36,540 --> 01:05:37,420 Lauren 704 01:05:42,740 --> 01:05:46,600 Lescrochet, and she will attend the University of Texas at Arlington next year 705 01:05:46,600 --> 01:05:48,200 and major in computer engineering. 706 01:05:53,990 --> 01:05:55,310 Barat Sachdeva. 707 01:06:00,400 --> 01:06:04,940 Barat will be attending Texas A&M University at College Station and study mathematics. 708 01:06:10,700 --> 01:06:11,720 Manor Selene. 709 01:06:15,290 --> 01:06:19,370 Manor will attend Texas State University and major in respiratory care. 710 01:06:19,630 --> 01:06:22,650 She wants to thank her family for all their support along the way. 711 01:06:28,490 --> 01:06:30,190 Annette Sanjuan Cepeda. 712 01:06:30,190 --> 01:06:38,430 Anita wants to thank her family, classmates, underclassmen, staff, and most importantly 713 01:06:38,430 --> 01:06:39,390 her faith in Christ. 714 01:06:40,150 --> 01:06:43,830 Her favorite things about high school have been spreading Christ and impacting others 715 01:06:43,830 --> 01:06:44,450 in their faith. 716 01:06:44,790 --> 01:06:49,110 She will attend Highlands College in Alabama next year and major in pastoral ministry. 717 01:06:55,910 --> 01:06:57,750 Joaquin Josiah Sanchez 718 01:07:02,480 --> 01:07:05,820 Joaquin wants to thank his mom and dad for everything they've 719 01:07:05,820 --> 01:07:06,420 done for him. 720 01:07:11,730 --> 01:07:13,570 Trevian Dorotoro Sandoval 721 01:07:17,500 --> 01:07:19,700 Trevian wants to thank his parents, 722 01:07:19,700 --> 01:07:24,460 parents, brothers, cousins, and uncles Jose and Goyo, and especially his aunt Licha. 723 01:07:30,690 --> 01:07:32,150 Noah James Silke. 724 01:07:38,240 --> 01:07:42,320 Noah plans to work full time over the summer while working on his 3D modeling skills. 725 01:07:48,140 --> 01:07:50,020 Flor Silvestre Vincis. 726 01:07:53,530 --> 01:07:57,270 Flor loves flowers and is hoping to begin a small floral business. 727 01:07:57,910 --> 01:08:00,430 She enjoyed coming to school, learning, making memories. 728 01:08:01,130 --> 01:08:05,090 Flor wants to thank all her teachers for their support and most importantly Mrs. Holmes 729 01:08:05,090 --> 01:08:07,870 for being there with her throughout her four years. 730 01:08:07,870 --> 01:08:09,570 She is forever grateful for her. 731 01:08:10,250 --> 01:08:13,270 Floor will be attending Austin Community College next year 732 01:08:13,270 --> 01:08:16,170 to major in health science and pursue a career in sonography 733 01:08:16,170 --> 01:08:17,630 as an ultrasound technician. 734 01:08:24,350 --> 01:08:25,770 Hashem Rakan Smadi. 735 01:08:29,500 --> 01:08:31,640 Hashem wants to thank his friends and family. 736 01:08:31,940 --> 01:08:33,620 He is extremely grateful for them all. 737 01:08:33,860 --> 01:08:35,780 He has enjoyed his time at early college, 738 01:08:36,020 --> 01:08:38,900 and we will be pursuing a career in mechanical engineering 739 01:08:38,900 --> 01:08:40,840 at the University of Texas at Dallas. 740 01:08:45,870 --> 01:08:47,390 Billy Ray Sweeney. 741 01:08:52,050 --> 01:08:54,250 Billy will be attending the University of Texas 742 01:08:54,250 --> 01:08:56,690 is at Tyler and majoring in computer science. 743 01:09:02,860 --> 01:09:03,900 Stacy Tang. 744 01:09:07,510 --> 01:09:09,830 Stacy will be pursuing a career in finance 745 01:09:09,830 --> 01:09:11,690 at the University of Houston and would 746 01:09:11,690 --> 01:09:13,890 like to thank her family for supporting her journey. 747 01:09:18,940 --> 01:09:20,380 Rachel Catherine Tarleton. 748 01:09:24,860 --> 01:09:27,680 Rachel will be pursuing a degree in kinesiology 749 01:09:27,680 --> 01:09:29,160 at Tarleton State University. 750 01:09:34,420 --> 01:09:36,800 Steven Xander Bustillo Tonalete. 751 01:09:40,480 --> 01:09:43,680 Steven is thankful for the experiences and opportunities 752 01:09:43,680 --> 01:09:44,960 that helped shape him. 753 01:09:49,180 --> 01:09:49,840 Sarah Tran. 754 01:09:49,840 --> 01:09:50,960 Sora 755 01:09:55,850 --> 01:10:05,990 would like to thank her mom and dad for their unconditional love and support throughout her journey at early college and is excited for a new chapter of her life at the University of Texas at Dallas. 756 01:10:12,040 --> 01:10:13,160 Luis Villanueva. 757 01:10:18,660 --> 01:10:26,300 Luis will attend the University of Michigan and major in biology, health and society with a minor in business on the pre-med track. 758 01:10:26,780 --> 01:10:32,280 He has also received a full ride scholarship to the University of Michigan. 759 01:10:32,280 --> 01:10:33,260 He 760 01:10:38,160 --> 01:10:41,420 would like to thank his family for their support throughout his four years of high school. 761 01:10:43,060 --> 01:10:44,180 Navi Wernicke. 762 01:10:49,160 --> 01:10:52,280 Navi is looking forward to a career in video game development. 763 01:10:57,410 --> 01:10:59,130 Samira Nicole Wiggins. 764 01:11:04,600 --> 01:11:09,020 Samira is planning to further her education by pursuing a bachelor's in animal science 765 01:11:09,020 --> 01:11:11,000 and committing herself to the Air Force. 766 01:11:17,680 --> 01:11:19,480 Raveon Janay Williams. 767 01:11:26,070 --> 01:11:31,090 Raveon will be attending Morgan State University and majoring in architecture. 768 01:11:38,280 --> 01:11:39,180 Janice Woods. 769 01:11:44,030 --> 01:11:48,870 Janice wants to thank all of the people who have been supported from day one. 770 01:11:54,830 --> 01:11:56,590 Armando Alex Zuniga. 771 01:12:05,600 --> 01:12:09,720 Alex wants to thank everyone who believes in him. Congratulations graduates. 772 01:12:37,780 --> 01:12:43,320 Allow me to offer my sincerest congratulations to our graduates and their families. 773 01:12:43,320 --> 01:12:50,580 so uh join me please let's give it up for the class of 2025 all 774 01:13:21,080 --> 01:13:22,780 right I 775 01:13:26,810 --> 01:13:27,150 would like 776 01:13:27,150 --> 01:13:33,370 to ask our class of 2025 to remain standing to symbolize that you are no 777 01:13:33,370 --> 01:13:38,250 longer high school students but are now graduates of early college high school 778 01:13:38,250 --> 01:13:42,230 please move your tassels from the right to the left 779 01:13:53,200 --> 01:13:55,820 graduates please turn 780 01:13:55,820 --> 01:13:58,460 and face the audience so they can celebrate you. 781 01:14:34,930 --> 01:14:37,110 Graduates, you may be seated. 782 01:14:44,010 --> 01:14:47,950 Closing remarks will be made by our student council treasurer, 783 01:14:48,230 --> 01:14:49,890 Luis Villanueva. 784 01:14:50,130 --> 01:14:53,590 Please welcome Luis Tenebodia. 785 01:15:17,710 --> 01:15:24,470 This is it. Four years of memories, challenges, and growth all led up to this three to four minute speech. 786 01:15:25,410 --> 01:15:30,910 Today isn't just the end of high school, but rather a closing chapter of a journey we've all shared together. 787 01:15:31,590 --> 01:15:37,410 If I'm being honest, many of us are feeling mixed emotions. Some of us are worried about what the future holds for us. 788 01:15:37,810 --> 01:15:44,250 Some of us are excited about the adventures that await us, whether we pursue in a bachelor's degree or entering the workforce. 789 01:15:44,250 --> 01:15:49,690 for us. Others probably wish graduation would have come sooner. But no matter where we're 790 01:15:49,690 --> 01:15:55,150 headed to in the future or how we're feeling, one thing is true for all of us. We all got 791 01:15:55,150 --> 01:15:59,990 here because we carried perseverance with us. Each one of us sitting in this room has 792 01:15:59,990 --> 01:16:03,810 had a difficult moment throughout their high school career. Yet we all persevered to 793 01:16:03,810 --> 01:16:07,610 be where we are today. Whether it's staying up late to work on our general chemistry 794 01:16:07,610 --> 01:16:12,310 homework or simply doing a TRF and AVID at the last minute, we still managed to 795 01:16:12,310 --> 01:16:12,730 pulled through. 796 01:16:13,870 --> 01:16:16,510 Academics aside, many of us have also persevered 797 01:16:16,510 --> 01:16:17,710 in deeply personal ways. 798 01:16:18,830 --> 01:16:21,790 In my journey, that meant navigating the loss of my father 799 01:16:21,790 --> 01:16:24,090 from cancer during my sophomore year of high school. 800 01:16:24,770 --> 01:16:26,010 He always pushed me to excel 801 01:16:26,010 --> 01:16:27,290 and reminded me to keep going. 802 01:16:28,050 --> 01:16:29,410 I still remember when he would tell me, 803 01:16:29,750 --> 01:16:32,030 echa le ganas Luis, or you got this to me 804 01:16:32,030 --> 01:16:33,010 when I struggled in school. 805 01:16:33,730 --> 01:16:35,510 Losing him felt like my world had shattered. 806 01:16:35,790 --> 01:16:36,670 A part of me was missing. 807 01:16:37,210 --> 01:16:39,090 And I didn't know how to move forward without him. 808 01:16:39,770 --> 01:16:42,130 At times, I was working towards my associate 809 01:16:42,130 --> 01:16:46,950 of science degree often studying for exams while sitting beside him in the hospital studying 810 01:16:46,950 --> 01:16:52,390 overnight just to be near him in case it was the last time I'd ever see him. It wasn't just me that 811 01:16:52,390 --> 01:16:57,070 his death took a toll on but also on the rest of my family including my mom that I see right there. 812 01:16:57,710 --> 01:17:02,890 I was just I saw just how hard she worked to make ends meet and to pay for medical bills. 813 01:17:03,330 --> 01:17:08,370 I saw the sacrifices she made and yet in every difficult moment she kept on a positive 814 01:17:08,370 --> 01:17:13,750 smile. At school, my counselor, Mrs. Holmes, supported me throughout my grieving process 815 01:17:13,750 --> 01:17:19,090 and made me feel loved, supported and valued. I have a vivid memory of Mr. Kubechec who told 816 01:17:19,090 --> 01:17:23,590 me he knew just how difficult it was to lose someone so close to you. I never felt that 817 01:17:23,590 --> 01:17:27,690 close to a teacher before and I knew that he would support me in whatever I did at school. 818 01:17:28,430 --> 01:17:32,910 Just like Mrs. Holmes, he was a mentor to me, not in a traditional academic sense, 819 01:17:32,910 --> 01:17:37,050 but as someone who reminded me that even in the most challenging moments, I wasn't alone. 820 01:17:38,110 --> 01:17:42,110 And in reflecting on everything, I've come to understand that my story is one of many. 821 01:17:42,670 --> 01:17:47,610 So many of us, especially first generation students, have faced silent battles and still 822 01:17:47,610 --> 01:17:48,830 found the strength to keep going. 823 01:17:49,690 --> 01:17:53,010 To all the first generation students in the crowd, you are not here by accident. 824 01:17:53,590 --> 01:17:55,450 You don't need to prove your worth to anyone. 825 01:17:55,930 --> 01:17:59,570 Your presence, your perseverance, and your story are already proof enough. 826 01:17:59,570 --> 01:18:03,690 You've already broken barriers just by being here and I have no doubt you keep 827 01:18:03,690 --> 01:18:08,910 doing it in the future. Before I close I want to share a message in Spanish for 828 01:18:08,910 --> 01:18:12,930 my family and for my and for everyone in the crowd who understands the weight of 829 01:18:12,930 --> 01:18:15,250 sacrifice, love, and perseverance. 830 01:18:30,670 --> 01:18:35,530 And I'm proud of my mother who supported my family with her strength and dedication. 831 01:18:36,230 --> 01:18:38,050 Especially when my father passed away. 832 01:18:38,930 --> 01:18:41,990 I also thank all of my family that are still in Mexico, 833 01:18:42,390 --> 01:18:46,530 who despite the distance, are always opening up for me love and unconditional support. 834 01:18:47,790 --> 01:18:52,010 And I know that my grandfather is watching me and guiding me from the sky. 835 01:18:52,190 --> 01:18:55,130 I'm finally proud to be a new one. 836 01:18:55,850 --> 01:19:01,830 Now, I share this brief story not for pity, but to remind us of some of the things we persevere through as a class. 837 01:19:02,470 --> 01:19:07,970 I am sure everyone in the crowd has had a similar story, or at least one where they had a difficult moment in their high school career. 838 01:19:08,630 --> 01:19:13,210 But here we are at graduation, and in just a couple of minutes, we will be high school graduates. 839 01:19:13,870 --> 01:19:20,210 It's incredible the amount of progress the class of 2025 has made, and I know we're leaving a lasting legacy at this school. 840 01:19:20,630 --> 01:19:26,090 I want every senior to know that I am proud of you, and I know whatever you choose to do in the future, you will succeed. 841 01:19:26,890 --> 01:19:30,650 Keep spreading love to those around you, but never forget that you deserve your own, too. 842 01:19:31,870 --> 01:19:34,510 Before I end my speech, I just have one thing to say. 843 01:19:35,170 --> 01:19:41,030 Seniors, for spending all four years at ECHS and making it to graduation on time, can I get a one, two, three? 844 01:19:42,550 --> 01:19:42,950 Yeah! 845 01:19:49,270 --> 01:19:49,670 Perfect. 846 01:19:58,320 --> 01:20:01,400 Beautiful. Thank you, Louise. Thank you so much. 847 01:20:02,120 --> 01:20:06,500 Parents, guests, and friends, we appreciate you being with us today in this celebration. 848 01:20:07,180 --> 01:20:12,600 At the conclusion of the ceremony, we will process out the stage to my left, as well 849 01:20:12,600 --> 01:20:16,760 as the students, and you may meet up with your graduates on the main floor lobby in 850 01:20:16,760 --> 01:20:17,320 a few moments. 851 01:20:18,160 --> 01:20:24,900 Once again, please join me in celebrating our early college high school class of 2025 852 01:20:25,760 --> 01:20:26,320 graduates. 853 01:20:26,320 --> 01:20:26,680 Wits, 854 01:20:32,020 --> 01:20:33,180 thank you and congratulations.