The DCHS Class of 2012 said goodbye to their Alma Mater and prepared to step out into the world after graduation ceremonies Friday night.
Three exemplary students were recognized for their accomplishments, with Adam James and Ally Judkins receiving the White Rose Awards for the class of 2012, while Elizabeth Sanders took the Citizenship Award.
A boy and girl from every DCHS graduating class are chosen to receive the White Rose based on leadership qualities, academic skills and outstanding achievement.
The Citizenship Award is presented to the senior who has demonstrated outstanding service, devotion and loyalty to DeKalb County High School.
Director of Schools Mark Willoughby presented 168 students with diplomas during the proceedings, shaking hands with the students.
Valedictorian Adam James told fellow graduates not to be afraid of what the future holds for them, but go into the world with confidence, and experience everything life has to offer.
“This mystery of what the future holds can be scary,” James told his classmates. “And sure, we can choose to be afraid. We can choose to approach life cautiously.
“Yes, we'll be safe, but never will we ever be able to truly embrace all that life has to offer. With this guarded lifestyle, we will work and grow old, but, honestly, not much else,” James continued. “Or, there is another path, another lifestyle, which we can choose instead of living in the shadows, we can choose to live a life filled with joy.
“We can choose to be amazing. We can choose to be absolutely incredible. Because, that is just what we are–incredible,” he said. “Each and every one of us has the capability necessary to leading a long, happy, and successful life. The fact that we are here tonight proves that. We only get one shot–one chance–to live this life right. So live it, and live it to the fullest.
“You make your own happiness. Ask yourself, why do some people have more than others? Because they visualize it and go after it. What is it that you want out of life? Because whatever your answer may be, it can be yours. All you have to do is use your imagination and ask for it. Obstacles can't stop you. Problems can't stop you. Most of all, other people can't stop you. Only you can stop you. So don't be afraid to think big, for it is the person who thinks big that lives big. No one is better than you. You truly do deserve every happiness life has to offer.
“There is a quote I like that says ‘Life is like a roller coaster. It has its ups and downs. But it’s your choice whether to close your eyes and scream or throw up your hands and enjoy the ride.’ Whether it be five, 10, 15, or 100 years from now, I hope each and everyone of you graduates will look back on these years as students of DeKalb County with pride and think "Wow, what a ride,” James concluded.
Class President Victoria Tatrow challenged her fellow classmates to strive for excellence.
“It is true, our experiences over these past years have allowed us to discover for ourselves who we are meant to be. Furthermore, I hope in my heart that each of you find happiness and joy in everything you do throughout this next adventure. At times, it may seem difficult, but so long as you believe in yourself, nothing will be impossible. Each of you are amazing individuals, so talented, intelligent, and inspirational. Please, always remember that by knowing who you are, striving for excellence, and believing in your dreams with all of your heart, you can accomplish anything," said Tatrow.
Motivational speaker Michael Burt instructed the graduates not to allow nay-sayers to discourage them from their focus.
“Your destiny truly has no city limits,” Burt said. “If you read any of the six books that I have written, I very seldom talk about goals. Not because I don't believe in goals, but what I think wins out is a dominant focus in your life. A definitive aim.
“For all of the parents who are here tonight, the strongest way to get these young people to chase their dream is to let them see you chasing your dreams,” he continued. “So remember this, young people, here's a simple concept. We become the sum average of the five people we hang around the most.
“The second thing is this,” Burt shared. “We will be the exact same people five years from today with the exception of two things. The people that we meet and the books that we read. Every person in this stadium has a dream. You're either at one of two places tonight with that dream. You're either ready to go after it or you're ready to give up on it.
“My hope is that tonight's talk will help you get the inspiration you need to go after it. Don't ever let your confidence be predicated by people who tell you that you can't do something with your life, because if this Woodbury boy can write six books, win a championship, and speak to 125,000 people, then you can do it too,” Burt concluded.
The ceremony included the Fighting Tiger Band, an invocation by Fellowship of Christian Athletes Vice President Laura Martinez, the DCHS Chorus and Theater Class singing the Beatles “In My Life,” an introduction by Senior Class President Victoria Tatrow, Guidance Counselor Lori Myrick recognized honor students, and a benediction by FCA President Elizabeth Sanders.
Principal Kathy Hendrix presented the Valedictorian and Salutatorian, as well as the White Rose and Citizenship Awards winners.