Oskaloosa High School Celebrates 152nd Commencement Ceremony
Oskaloosa High School Class of 2024.
Oskaloosa, IA – On a beautiful spring afternoon, Oskaloosa High School (OHS) celebrated its 152nd commencement ceremony, honoring the graduating class of 2024. The event, held at the school’s auditorium, an occasion filled with speeches, memories, and the proud moment of diploma presentation.
The ceremony began with a warm welcome from OHS Principal Jeff Kirby, who expressed his pride in the accomplishments of the graduates. “It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 152nd commencement ceremony for the graduating class of 2024,” said Kirby. He then introduced Dr. Mike Fisher, Superintendent of Schools, who delivered an inspiring speech emphasizing the significance of the day. “This is a fantastic moment to celebrate the blood, sweat, and tears, and the journey that has brought us here today.”
Following Dr. Fisher’s address, three high school speakers took the stage to share their reflections and hopes for the future. The first speaker, Kimber Van Engrlenhoven, thanked her parents for their support and reminisced about the journey from kindergarten to graduation. “These are the memories and the moments that have made us who we are as a class and who we are as individuals,” she said.
Karter Flaherty, the second speaker, injected humor into his speech while emphasizing the importance of perseverance and setting goals. “Today, we earn our diplomas, which only further proves that this class is destined to get that paper,” Flaherty quipped, encouraging his classmates to pursue their dreams with determination.
The final speaker, Gwyneth Utterback, urged her fellow graduates to focus on who they want to be rather than just what they want to do. “Class of 2024, this is a fresh start. We are being given one of very few fresh starts in our life right now, and I challenge all of you to make the most of it,” she said, inspiring her peers to embrace their future with courage and integrity.
The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of diplomas, as each graduate walked across the stage to receive their certificate from Board President Charlie Comfort. Among the notable graduates were valedictorian Gwyneth Marie Utterback and salutatorian Evelyn Marie Adam. Family and friends looked on as the graduates moved their tassels from right to left, symbolizing their transition from students to alumni.
The ceremony concluded with a performance by the Oskaloosa choir, followed by a heartfelt address from Principal Kirby, who officially presented the graduating class of 2024 to the audience. “Parents, families, friends, and faculty, I now present to you the graduating class of 2024. Congratulations!” Kirby announced as the graduates tossed their caps into the air in celebration.
The event was not only a celebration of academic achievements but also a testament to the strong community spirit of Oskaloosa. With a variety of local businesses and organizations expressing their support through advertisements and messages, the ceremony highlighted the close-knit nature of the town.
As the graduates embark on their next chapter, the Oskaloosa community stands behind them, ready to support their dreams and aspirations. The class of 2024 leaves Oskaloosa High School with fond memories, valuable lessons, and the promise of a bright future ahead.
