English
COMMENCEMENT PROGRAM
May 25, 2025
(Student Council President Class of 2025 Selise Rolon)
Will you please stand for the Star-Spangled Banner, which will be performed by Senior
members of the BHS Choir Program.
You may now be seated.
“Welcome graduates, faculty, family, and friends to the BHS Commencement Program
for the class of 2025!”
Marathi and Hindi - Sameera Bhivare
Russian and Ukrainian - Daria Markina
Spanish - Yareli Alvarez, Nery Mejia
Selise Rolon “You may now be seated for the opening speech given by the Vice President of
the Class of 2025.”
Opening
Nailah Rivadeneyra-Braswell (Vice President of the Class of 2025)
I would now like to introduce the class secretary, Sharini Menon.
Introductions (Sharini Menon (Secretary of the Class of 2025))
I would like to introduce:
Dr. David Mouser Superintendent of Schools
Dr. Charles Irwin President of the Board of Education
Brigette Gibson Vice President
Members of the Board of Education
Elizabeth Fox Anvick Veleda Harvey
Dr. Cathy Lust Courtney Turnbull
Mark Wylie
Bloomington High School Administrators
Timothy Moore Principal
Sally Kelly Assistant Principal
Patricia Carmitchel Assistant Principal
Dan Saken Assistant Principal
Emily Waddell Assistant Principal
Moise Moctezuma Dean of Students
Tony Bauman Athletic Director
At this time, I would like to bring Principal Tim Moore to the podium.
Message from the Graduating Class (Principal Tim Moore)
Welcome to the Commencement Ceremony for the Class of 2025. We are extremely proud of all of these candidates for graduation and of their achievements. The Class of 2025 has distinguished itself with accomplishments academically, athletically, and in extra-curricular activities. They have learned how important it is to express our individuality and how essential it is that we all act as a community to help one another. At this time, I would like you to recognize the students who rank as Class Salutatorians of the Class of 2025. Congratulations to: Jordan Glam, Luke Huffaker, Paige Novotny, Miette Smith-Golwitzer, and Liam Taylor.
At this time, I would also like to recognize the graduates who have earned the rank of Valedictorian. I am pleased to introduce the Valedictorians of the Class of 2025: Devin Adams, Haleigh Hoffman, Avani Khapre, Millicent Law, Sharini Menon, Nailah Rivadeneyra-Braswell, Briannon Snyder, and Gwenyth Suess.
The valedictorians will now present a message on behalf of their class members.
SPEECH 1-Devin Adams and Millie Law (Summer)
Good afternoon everyone– teachers, families, little siblings who were dragged here, friends,
and most importantly- the graduating class of 2025. So Devyn and I thought teenage ninja
turtles would be a great speech theme idea considering there are four speeches and four lil
turtles. However not everyone was rocking with the idea so we landed on seasons instead. As a
compromise they let us pick our season of choice, which was obviously summer.
Today we stand on the edge of something new- something bright, something unknown,
something a little bit like summer. Summer is often the time for sunshine, resting, no school,
and no worries, an area Millie and I excel at. Summer also reminds us that personal growth is
just as valuable as intellectual growth. It’s often in the unstructured and unexpected moments
that we learn the most- when we’re out of our comfort zones, make mistakes, and take chances
in life. That’s the kind of learning that lies ahead of us. Whether going to college, beginning a
new career, travelling, or figuring things out one day at a time, the world is now our classroom.
We take our education very seriously during the school year, but we view summer as an
opportunity to grow socially and mentally, rather than just academically. Throughout our high
school experience, we’ve discovered that we’re not content when we only focus on our grades.
Life is about so much more than only prioritizing GPA. Tanning, sleeping in, and watching
movies don’t seem productive at all. However, these uncomplicated tasks allow us to fully relax
and rejuvenate as we get ready for the upcoming school year.
When you thrive socially and partake in activities that bring you peace and joy, success follows.
Summer, essentially a two month long weekend, does not have to revolve around job searches
and study sessions, but it can be a good time for both preparing for your future and living in
the present. Go to social events, take time for your friends, utilize activities that are simply just
fun.
Devyn you’re making some excellent points, I see how you’re qualified to be up here. So what
you’re trying to say is that we should all have fun, but also get the job done. Millie, that's
exactly what I’m saying! So to our fellow graduates: let’s welcome this new season of our lives.
A season of goodbyes, new beginnings, and the intriguing unfamiliar. Remember to always
chase after success, but relish in the little things as well. Let’s make this summer–and every
season after–our own. I would like to introduce our next speakers - Gwen Suess and Haleigh
Hoffman.
Speech 2 - Gwen Suess and Haleigh Hoffman
The start of the school year and the season that can either make you or break you is Fall. This is
a time of shedding our previous mistakes and getting ready for the year ahead. We all get to
choose our classes, maybe some easy fillers, required courses, or difficult APs, but this
selection really determines how much time and effort we give for the rest of the semester and
possibly the year. We can either decide to keep up with our schoolwork, or wait until the very
last minute to get things done.
While each chosen class can bring stress, anxiety, or exhaustion throughout the school year,
our raider pride helps bring us all together, despite our personal hardships. Whether that be by
joining a new club or two in the new school year, attending football games at the (Fred), or
participating in sports, we all come together as a family.
Now that we are here, graduating and beginning new journeys, we must remember that change
is inevitable. However, it doesn’t necessarily need to be seen as a negative and scary thing.
Fall marks as one of two transition seasons filled with change and unexpected events. This may
be common knowledge to all of us but by looking through the lens of a student and not the
weather, we can see the adaptations and changes we have made to get here today. This may
include altering your schedule and transitioning from summer’s relaxation and rejuvenation, to
locking in and focusing on school. Or it could simply be having new classes and teachers.
While in the moment changes can be unknown and scary, we must push on and shed our
previous expectations and obstacles like leaves on a tree and prepare for the inevitable progress
and growth that comes with the new seasons.
Seeing you all here today at least proves we have gotten through the hardships the fall season
may have brought and have come out ready to take on whatever comes next.
Regardless of whether we coasted through the school years or struggled to stay a float, we are
all here at this moment, so let’s celebrate this new and important change we are experiencing
and the unknown future yet to come. Thank you, next up is Sharini Menon and Avani Khapre.
Speech 3 - Sharini Menon and Avani Khapre
Gold and vermilion illuminated the sky. A sun so tired that it sank below the horizon, giving
way to short and cold winter days. Like the sun, we were worn out by the long year. We went
through the motions of college applications, studying for finals, and finishing up the year. In
the frost of deadlines and tests, the warmth of friendship melted away the stress.
We look towards break and the holidays, excited for time off school and to be with loved ones.
As we joyously said goodbye to the old semester, we reminisced on the winters before made up
of small class holiday parties in elementary school or movie days in junior high. Everyone had
something to celebrate, whether it be stringing up lights on the Christmas tree or watching the
clock strike midnight on New Year's Day. We greeted the new year with a fresh start.
As we looked towards the new year, we made resolutions for ourselves, whether be academic or
personal. Next winter, we’d know whether those goals had been achieved. The semester began
like a field of untouched snow–pure, open, and full of possibility. We all began with a clean
slate, as we got a second chance with our grades. We got new classes and schedules, allowing us
to meet new people and teachers. We tried new activities, went to basketball games, and
received college decisions.
It’s the one time of year where we get to slow down and simply embrace the little moments.
Every year we waited excitedly for snowfall, hoping for a snow day spent inside with warm hot
chocolate or out sledding. As the days got warmer and longer, we became increasingly aware
that our time here was coming to an end. As the trees grew back their leaves and flowers began
to bloom, the sun seemed to hold itself a little higher again. Winter was full of cold days, and
cold nights, old traditions and new friends, snow falling from the sky like ashes of the year that
has gone by.
We were comforted with the knowledge that we’d be reminiscing and seeing each other again
next winter.
We, like, snowflakes all start in the same cloud, but must embark on our own journeys through
the world, just like we’re doing today. I’d like to now introduce our next speakers Briannon
Snyder and Nailah Rivadeneyra-Braswell
Speech 4: Briannon Snyder and Nailah Rivadeneyra-Braswell
Now it’s spring, the time of rejuvenation. Just as the trees are getting their leaves back, the
animals are maturing from babies to adults, and the plants are sprouting, as we look back on
the hardships and stress that winter brought, it’s clear we all have grown too. And with that
newfound growth comes change, and spring, right now, is the perfect time for a brand new
start to implement all the things you’ve learned, just like the perennial flowers coming back
even stronger and sturdier than they were the year prior, capable of withstanding any stormy
days ahead. Everyone is starting a new chapter in their life because being here, in this
colosseum, we all made it!
We’ve spent the past four years planting the seeds to become better prepared for success,
growing through every moment, and now we’re all blooming. And just like a field of flowers, we
all grew together, with our roots pointed in varying directions, heading for different paths in
life. Some people know where they’re headed, others don’t, but no matter what, we’ve all
accomplished the same, beautiful thing - we’re graduating!
And we wouldn’t be without the help of our teachers, whether they’re BHS’s staff or our own
family members. They enlightened us, giving us the sunlight we needed to grow, so thank you
to everyone who made it possible for each and everyone of us to be here in this room.
As we have blossomed into beautiful flowers, we must remember that there are more stages in
life. We are not done yet, but I’m glad we got to be together for high school which is only a
small, but powerful part of our lives. Spring can be rocky as the weather shifts back and forth,
but in the end we know the sun will shine brightly onto us. We have all struggled at one point
in our high school careers, but we have made it to graduation where the light shines down as
we cross the stage. I am so excited for this new chapter of my life to begin and I hope you all are
too. I can’t wait for a fresh start and to truly gain my independence as I become a young adult.
Maybe you want to earn a degree, adopt a pet, get a job or own a house. There are so many
different possibilities for us now.
As I look to the future, I think about all the new friends I will make this year. It makes me think
of a girl scout lyric, “make new friends but keep the old”. I won’t forget all the amazing
friendships I’ve had over the years in this great school district. I hope you all won’t forget
either. As we move on to new things, we can’t forget all the seasons that came before: Winter,
Fall, and Summer. !!!!!!Goodbye to my fellow class of 2025 graduates!!!!!!
(Tim Moore) Thank you valedictorians.
At this time, I would like to direct your attention to the insert page in our program. Students
with a grade point of 5.621 or higher will be designated as valedictorians. The
class salutatorians will include students with a grade point average of 5.552 or
higher. This dual graduation system allows us to still recognize our Valedictorians
and our Salutatorians, but also allows us to recognize more students for
outstanding academic achievement during their years at BHS. Our students who
have earned the designation of Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude and Summa Cum
Laude have been given a graduation cord to wear in recognition of this honor. At
time, I ask that students:
● Who are wearing a Silver cord and are designated as Cum Laude, earning a GPA of 4.5-4.99, please stand to be recognized…Congratulations, you may
be seated.
● Who are wearing a Gold cord and are designated as Magna Cum Laude, earning a GPA of 5.0-5.49, please stand to be recognized…Congratulations,
you may be seated.
● Who are wearing a Purple cord and are designated as Summa Cum Laude, earning a GPA of 5.5 andabove stand to be recognized…Congratulations,
you may be seated.
Congratulations again to all of our students earning these designations. Now at this time, I would like to recognize those BHS Graduates that will be
entering the Armed Forces. Would those students please stand and be recognized. Thank You for choosing to serve our country.
Lastly, I ask that those BHS Graduates that plan to become a teacher, after college graduation - please stand to be recognized. Thank You for choosing to pursue teacher education, which you will see someday is the most rewarding profession you can be part of.
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL!
We, the faculty of Bloomington High School, congratulate all of these students in the Class of 2025. We wish them well as they assume the responsibilities that lie ahead. We congratulate you, their parents and guardians, who have given thoughtful guidance and continued encouragement. I trust that all of you graduates will continue to feel a strong loyalty to BHS. You will always remain a Purple Raider for “Once a Raider, Always a Raider!”
Presentation of the Class to the Superintendent
(Tim Moore) Dr. Mouser, It is with a great deal of pride and with high expectations for the
future of these candidates that I present to you the Class of 2025.
Superintendent Response
(Dr. Mouser’s Speech)
Graduates, please be seated.
Thank you, Mr. Moore. Before I get to the Class of 2025, I would like to take a moment to acknowledge and thank our faculty volunteers who are seated with our soon to be graduates. Would the faculty members assisting today please stand and would you please join me in a round of applause for their efforts?
Today, you are finishing a journey that to many of you may have seemed very long, but in reality, it has passed by very quickly. It really wasn't that long ago that some of you were attending elementary school, Outdoor Ed at BJHS, and entering BHS for the first time as nervous freshmen in the fall of 2020.
The faculty and staff of all of our schools are very proud of you. Let everyone see your journey through our schools. At this time, I would ask those in the Class of 2025 who attended Bent Elementary School to please stand and remain standing.
If you attended Irving Elementary School, please stand and remain standing.
If you attended Oakland Elementary School, please stand and remain standing.
If you attended Sheridan Elementary School, please stand and remain standing.
If you attended Stevenson Elementary School, please stand remain standing.
If you attended Washington Elementary School, please stand and remain standing.
If you attended Bloomington Junior High School, please stand and remain standing.
Finally, for anyone and everyone here this afternoon who attended Bloomington High School, please stand.
Class of 2025, you are now becoming part of the rich history of Bloomington High School. I know you will go on to do great things.
Please be seated.
Mr. Moore, it is with a great deal of pride that I accept this class, the Class of 2025. At this time, it is my privilege to introduce District 87 Board President, Dr. Charles Irwin.
Board of Education Response
Good afternoon, to all of you who have come together to celebrate your student’s milestone day. I congratulate the graduating Class of 2025! On behalf of the
board of education, I want to say how proud we are of each and every one of you. Today, we are celebrating not only your graduation but also your resilience,
growth, and your bright futures. It has been an honor to witness your journey, and we share your excitement over what is ahead for you.
Now, as you step out into the world, we hope you take a moment to reflect on everything you’ve accomplished here at Bloomington High School. You have
been part of a community that has supported you, cheered you on, and believed in you every step of the way. As a board, we take immense pride in seeing this
community grow through students like you.
Class of 2025, wherever life takes you, whether it is to college, the workforce, the military, or somewhere entirely unexpected, we know you will carry the
lessons and values you’ve gained here.
I leave you with this charge from a former president of Illinois Wesleyan, the late Miner Myers, Jr.: “Go into the world and do well, but more importantly, go into
the world and do good.” Congratulations, graduates, and remember: Once a Raider, always a Raider.
Presentation of Diplomas (Tim Moore)
Now, as Principal of Bloomington High School, I certify that these candidates have fulfilled the requirements for graduation as prescribed by the Board of
Education and are eligible to receive the diploma of Bloomington High School. At this time, we will present diplomas to the candidates for graduation.
During this part of our ceremony, I ask for the help and cooperation of the audience. Please withhold applause and recognition until all candidates have received their diploma.
The Marshals will now step forward to conduct the candidates for graduation to the stage.
Assistant Principals, Kelly Case, Patricia Carmitchel, Dan Saken, and Emily Waddell and Den of Students Moise Moctuzma will assist with the presentation of the diplomas.
Closing
(Tim Moore) The closing for today’s graduation will be given by the Class of 2025 Co Presidents , after which the Marshals will take their place for the Recessional. We ask the audience to please remain seated for the Recessional and remain in their seats until all the new alumni have left the floor.
Co Presidents of the Class of 2025, Lauren Hart and Liam Taylor
Good afternoon everyone, teachers, families, friends, and most importantly, the Class of 2025. I’m Lauren Hart, one of your class presidents. It’s a little surreal to be standing here. After four years of bell schedules, cafeteria lunches, hallway chaos, and inside jokes we’ll never be able to explain we’re here. On the edge of something new, while still holding on to something we’ll never forget. A moment that, for so long, felt distant. And now it’s here, asking us to say goodbye and move forward.
This afternoon, I want to leave you with one image: a mosaic. A mosaic is made of fragments tiny, broken pieces of glass, tile, or stone. At first glance, they don’t look like much. Some are smooth, others jagged. Some bold, others soft. They’re pieces that don’t match. Pieces that maybe weren’t meant to go together. And yet, somehow, they do.
Life is a mosaic. It’s built from moments big and small, ordinary and unforgettable. The awkward first day when we all pretended we knew where we were going. The group projects that somehow pulled together at the last minute. The late night texts stressing over a test. The teachers who challenged us not just in class, but as people. The friendships that started over something random and ended up meaning everything. And yes the heartbreaks, the setbacks, the moments we wondered if we were doing anything right.
Each of us has built something entirely our own here. Piece by piece. And while this chapter may be closing, the mosaic doesn’t stop. It keeps growing whether we’re paying attention or not. And when we do pause when we step back and look those scattered, imperfect pieces come together into something vivid. Something layered with color, meaning, and memory. Something whole.
So how do we apply this? First, we learn to stop chasing perfection. In a mosaic, a cracked tile still has value. A darker shade adds depth. The pieces that don’t
seem to fit perfectly often end up making the whole image more interesting. In life, we’ll mess up. We’ll take wrong turns. But if you hold yourself to an impossible standard, you’ll miss the beauty of what those imperfect moments are adding to your story. Learn to see mistakes not as stains, but as strokes of color in a bigger picture.
Second, be patient with the process. When you’re working on a mosaic, you can’t always see what it’s becoming until you step back. Life is the same way. Some of us are still figuring out what we want to do, who we are, or where we’re going— and that’s okay. Growth isn’t always linear. Sometimes the tile that doesn’t make sense right now will be the one that connects everything later. Trust that the picture is forming, even if you can’t see it yet.
Third, choose your pieces with intention. Some tiles fall into place by accident—but many are placed by design. The friends you choose, the opportunities you say yes to, the habits you build—those are your tiles. If you want a mosaic filled with meaning, curiosity, and color, seek out people who challenge and support you, take chances that scare you, and pay attention to the small moments—they often become the most powerful parts.
As we cross this stage and into a future filled with unknowns, remember this: You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to keep adding pieces. Piece by piece, choice by choice, you are creating a life worth living- a life that tells your story in the most breathtaking way. Congratulations Class of 2025, your mosaic has just begun!
And that being said, we’ve reached the moment we’ve all been waiting for. Turning the tassel is more than just a tradition, it's a symbol. It marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of the next. It means we’ve made it through the hard days, grown through the challenges, and come out stronger.
So, Class of 2025 as you turn your tassels from the right to the left, know that you are stepping forward not just as students but as graduates ready to take on the world.
Class of 2025… Dismissed!!!!