For the 195th time in its history, the Springville-Griffith Institute Central School District honored a graduating class, hosting Commencement exercises for 141 members of the Class of 2025 on June 28.
Sydney Moran, the senior class president, served as master of ceremonies. Karina Duerr sang the National Anthem.
In her salutatorian’s address, Kirsten Melnik told her classmates to celebrate more than getting a diploma, but also all of the experiences they had at SGI.
“There is something so special about the place you grow up, it will always be home, no matter how far you go. But let this place that so many of us seem desperate to escape be the foundation for our future. And just like your mistakes, don’t let coming from a small town limit you, let it be a guide,” she said. “... I urge everyone to remember your small town roots when you get lost, but as my sister says, 'don’t be afraid to grow branches.'”
Philip Emerling, valedictorian, started his speech with an admittedly offensive statement: He doesn’t care what his classmates do after graduation.
“I do care about something else, something that I believe to be much more important,” he quickly added. “I care that every individual in this room is happy. I don’t care how you get there, but I really, really want you to be happy.”
He finished by telling his classmates and the audience to take his advice.
“Go out into the world, and please, for the love of God, take my advice. Let a little bit of your childhood into your adulthood and pursue what makes you happy,” he said.
Graduates heard an inspirational message from 1996 graduate Cory Neff. Neff was a student athlete, vice president of her class, and a dedicated member of the band and orchestra - interests she continues to embrace today. She currently serves as a Senior Vice President of Sales at Compass Group North America.
Neff didn’t always have it easy, and her path was not always clear, but there was one thing that she thought made a difference.
“When I was a little girl, I wished myself out of many situations by walking around, looking around for pennies. I would hold it tight in my hand, close my eyes, and envision a future that I couldn't see in the town of Colden, where I grew up, or this community of Springville,” she said. “I really had no idea that these were more than wishes, they were visions that I manifested in my life. This is a great place to grow up. When you're in these walls, in these halls, in this community, growth happens for you.”
For Neff, finding a lucky penny was no insignificant event, it was a moment to pause and look toward the future.
“Sitting here in 1996, I never thought that I would have lived in two countries, owned homes in eight cities, or currently serve as a senior executive, a leader and shareholder of a global phenomenon. I didn't even know what that meant. But today, I'm truly living my purpose, realizing my dreams,” she said as she passed on a gift to the Class of 2025. “… So, graduates, it's your turn. If you reach under your chair and look, perhaps a penny might be there.”
Lexi Smith, senior class vice-president, presented the class gift to Superintendent James Bialasik. The class donated a scholarship to pass on to a member of the Class of 2026 who exemplifies being a Griffin - humble, strong, and resilient.
Bialasik thanked the Class of 2025 for the gift and reflected on their journey and accomplishments.
“I've watched not only the academic strides that you've made, mastering subjects and skills, and more importantly, I witnessed your growth as individuals. I've seen you develop character, learn perseverance in the face of challenges, discover your passions, forge bonds with one another, and I've seen you - most importantly in my mind - contribute and give back to the school in real and tangible ways, leaving SGI better than it was when you arrived,” Bialasik said. “This holistic development, the developing of your intellect and your character, is what truly defines your time in our schools. And today's ceremony codifies our confidence in you that you are well equipped to navigate whatever comes next.”
Congratulations to the Class of 2025!
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