Times Observer photo by Brian Ferry Members of the Youngsville High School class of 2022 sing the alma mater Friday during commencement.

About 300 Warren County School District seniors put on caps and gowns for commencement on Friday.

There was laughter. There were tears. Many hugs were exchanged.

There were decorated caps and fancy sunglasses.

Before those students received their diplomas, turned tassels, and threw caps in the air, they heard words of wisdom and encouragement from their peers, their teachers and principals, and guest speakers.

At Mike Shine Field in Youngsville, Co-Valedictorian Bryceton Maille said, “Graduation has already shown us how capable we all are of reaching our goals. Let us believe in ourselves. Let us take new problems on with confidence.”

Times Observer photo by Brian Ferry Youngsville High School co-valedictorian Kenzie Olewine gives her speech Friday during commencement at Mike Shine Field.

“You can do everything right and not reach your goal,” Co-Valedictorian Kenzie Olewine said, not as discouragement. “Prioritize the journey. I hope you achieve your wildest dreams, but most of all I hope you enjoy every moment along the way.”

Salutatorian Savannah Upton encouraged her classmates to remember their roots as they move on. “As we enter the next chapter of our lives, it is important to remember where we came from.”

Guest Speaker George Mock offered similar advice.

Mock was a custodial supervisor at Youngsville Middle High School until his retirement early this school year. He said he was surprised when the senior class invited him to return and speak at commencement.

He said the students are entering the third chapter of their lives – and the one that comes with the least structure. “How this chapter plays out is up to you.”

“Every one of us has an opinion,” he said. “It doesn’t affect you in any way… unless (it convinces you to) give up too soon.”

Don’t give in to negative opinions from others or negative thoughts from yourself, he said. If someone says, “‘It’s going to take too long.’ That time’s going to pass anyway. Put it to good use.”

“Believe in yourself,” Mock said. “You write your own definition of success.”

Some definitions could be to: “Get good grades. Work hard every day to get your check. Do what you have to do.”

Finally, Mock suggested that the graduates hold onto their friendships. “Don’t ever let go of your best friend from school,” he said. “They know you. They’re the bridge to your past. Don’t ever let that go.”

“We’re all in this journey together,” Maille said. “We’ve already taken the first step. Now, it’s time to take the next steps.”