Morristown Hamblen High School East held its 55th Graduation Ceremony Thursday at the Walters State Expo Center

School Principal Joe Ely welcomed guests before student leaders left students with parting words of wisdom.

“I would like to welcome you to the 55th East High School’s graduation ceremony as we celebrate the class of 2023,” Ely said.

Student Council President Sawyer Stacy discussed the uncertainty of tomorrow, but challenged students to take risks.

“Well we made it, at least some of us did,” he said. “I know many of you were eager for this moment, myself included.”

“I have to admit I am scared. Mostly what is next. I’m utterly terrified of what the next four months will look like. Maybe for some of you this change won’t be as drastic but no matter how big or small it will be felt by all of us as we walk across this stage. This is a new step forward for all of us, into the unknown.”

“You are going to have many opportunities come your way and I challenge you all to take a risk once in a while,” he said “I’m not telling you to not pay your taxes or fake your death, but to start a business, buy that peloton or meet someone new.

Valedictorian Emma Arrington encouraged students to be themselves as they move forward in their journeys.”

“When I look at the crowd I see hundreds of faces I grew up with,” she said “From playing tag at recess to dreading ARP exams. I’ve spent countless moments with the people here today.”

“However, once we graduate we will be thrown into a sea of new places, people, teachers and experiences. While we may not be completely ready for it, we can face this. The key to doing so is being yourself.”

Valedictorian Connor Cope told students to be proud of what they have accomplished and to live life to the fullest.

“Well ladies and gentlemen we did it,” he said “12 years of our lives had led up to this moment.”

“When you leave this stage you will be taking the next step into the chapter of your life. What you have done is not easy, only 66% of the world has completed high school education so take pride in what you accomplished today.”

“As the next few years come our independence will grow and the only adult to take care of us is ourselves. We will have a plethora of freedom to choice that comes with the price of responsibility.”

“Don’t throw away the opportunity you have to be something great,” he said “Take your life by the horns and make it what you want it to be. The time you spend on this Earth is yours and yours alone.”

Riley Ripley Senior Class President thanked students for the opportunity to represent them and told them they were ready to take on the world.

“Seniors this is it,” she said. “This is what we’ve been waiting for, for the past 13 years.”

“Even though we’re not under the lights of Burke Tony Stadium, we are about to walk this stage, turn our tassels and turn our page to the next chapter of our lives.”

“With that being said, thank you for letting me serve as your class president for the past two years.”

“We are the class of 2023 and we are ready to take on the world.”

Ely mentioned the special relationship he has with this graduating class and how expressed the importance of surrounding themselves with good friends.

“I’ve had the privilege of serving these seniors in the toughest times we have ever experienced in education,” he said. “We experienced it together.”

“This is the group that came into the school my very first year as principal,” he said “Over the last four years we have grown because of it.”

“Surround yourself with your friends who will challenge you to grow,” he said. “As you look at your friends in your life, ask yourself these questions about them. Do they challenge you? Do they inspire you to be goal oriented, patient and committed?

Superintendent of Schools Arnie Bunch congratulated students and mentioned how he valued this class of students.

“Graduates congratulations,” he said “You have persevered to receive your diploma.”

“This afternoon is an extra special ceremony as it is the first in my tenure as superintendent. Each one of you will hold a special place in my memory and my heart.”

He expressed his hope and goal for the students and they continue their journey in life.

“My goal for each and every one of you is that tonight will be a milestone in your life’s journey and not a final destination.”

“Each of you have dreams and goals you want to chase. Continue to learn and grow in knowledge, particularly in your field so you remain competitive.”

“Life is a competition and as you move into adulthood, not everyone gets a participation trophy,” he said. “Those days are in the past and now you have to go out and be an adult.”

“I encourage each of you to chase your dreams with passion and perseverance. Be a continuous learner and be the best in your chosen fields.”

As final parting words Bunch wished them the best and told them he would be rooting for their success.

“I wish you all the best in the next chapter of your lives. I will be cheering for each one of you and watching you accomplish. I’m sure you will make all of us proud.”