Over the last two weeks, I’ve had the distinct privilege of running a newsroom that covers more than a dozen high school graduations and one college graduation. Students, armed with knowledge, grit, sass and an absolutely wonderful desire to push for their dreams walked across football fields, stages, basketball courts and other venues to receive their paper that says they are, officially, done with a chapter of their lives.

I would encourage the Class of 2025 to remember something, and this is something that took me probably longer than it should have to realize: Everything up to high school is just a lesson, and life as an adult is the final exam.

That may sound a little daunting, and it is, but there’s something even more important to remember: You’ve had good teachers for this test.

Your parents, teachers, siblings, extended family, coaches, advisors, community members and that one awesome lunch lady that every school in America seems to have were all there for you as instructors. From potty training to algebra to building forts and swinging a bat, or making sure you behaved so you could get the best slice on pizza day – each of them taught you something that will garner high marks in life.

You’ve done your studying for the test. Now go forth and kick as much backside as the world will allow.

Your generation has faced a lot of challenges. COVID-19, bullying on social media, insane levels of political drama pretty much since day one, being born during the War on Terror and even excessive use of the word “yeet.”

You are resilient. You are bold. You are fun and funny and intelligent and as dangerous as you need to be.

The team here at the Columbia Basin Herald has watched you grow, succeed, fail, try again and persevere. We’re incredibly proud of you and we will continue to cheer on the joys you experience and bring to the world.

I know I’m an old Gen-Xer, and I think I’m supposed to be sarcastic and say something about getting off my lawn. I can’t do it, though. You’re all amazing humans and you are going to shape this world in amazing ways, locally, regionally, nationally and globally.

It has been an honor seeing your stories evolve and watching you grow. Never stop growing, and congratulations on a well-written chapter. Now, as an editor is wont to do, I’m going to tell you to write the next part of the story even better.

Congratulations to you, Class of 2025! You are awe-inspiring.

In admiration and appreciation,

R. Hans “Rob” Miller

Managing Editor

Columbia Basin Herald

Basin Business Journal