MATTAWA — Wahluke High School saw 136 seniors cross the stage and accept their diplomas during their commencement ceremony held Friday, June 8.

Senior class president Miguel Urrutia kicked off the evening with a warm welcome to everyone.

“We thank the teachers who made it possible for us to stand here tonight,” said Urrutia.

Urrutia spoke to his class, assuring them that no matter the paths they choose to take in life, they will always be a part of the class of 2018.

“As individuals, we take many paths,” said Urrutia. “Never forget the courage, strength, and determination it took to get to graduation.”

Following his speech, all members of the senior class then took to the crowd with flowers in hand to present and pay tribute to their families who supported them along the way.

Salutatorian Coral Macial Puentes and valedictorian Jessica Arellano then each had a moment to address classmates and loved ones. Both Puentes and Arellano thanked their classmates, families and teachers for their continuous support and unforgettable memories.

“Today we prove that we are capable of achieving our goals,” said Puentes. “If we can achieve our dreams and goals, then we can absolutely pursue our happiness.”

“This is just the beginning; we have a long way to go,” said Arellano. “Remember to defend the most vulnerable. Know your rights, raise your voices. Be humble, learn to love and forgive. And most importantly, be happy.”

Guest speakers Brock Anderson and Matt Watrous then took to the podium to say their goodbyes to the class of ’18. Using each letter of the alphabet, Anderson and Watrous offered the class advice for the future.

“‘G’ is for good,” said Anderson. “See if you can find it in other people.”

“‘R’ is for respect,” said Watrous. “Give it to others and maybe it will be given to you.”

Watrous then gave his final farewell to the seniors in a familiar fashion.

“You’ve heard me do this a million times, and now I’ll do it one last time,” said Watrous. “Here. Are. Your WAHLUKE WARRIORS!”

Senior class advisor Daisy Cardenas also took the opportunity to address her seniors one last time. She reminisced about her time with the class, remembering how when they were nervous freshmen just starting high school, she herself was a nervous first-year teacher. They were all just trying to survive that first year, she explained, and they did.

“I know you guys are ready to conquer your next journey,” said Cardenas.

Cardenas explained that while she enjoyed advising the class of 2018 and would love to have had them around the school a little longer, she knows that they will accomplish great things.

“If there is one lesson I hope you take away from me, I hope that it is to be confident and proud of who you are,” said Cardenas. “You will change the world.”