Seniors honored at Minster graduation
MINSTER — Minster High School graduated 64 students on the afternoon of May 29 during its commencement ceremony.
“I know that you missed out on some experiences during the worst of the pandemic, but I’m grateful your senior year saw a return to the typical traditions and events MHS students get to enjoy,” said 7-12 Principal Austin Kaylor. “I want to thank you for being great role models for our younger students. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to get to know each of you, and watch you grow. I hope you’ll look back on your years at Minster fondly and remember our staff as a caring, dedicated team who worked hard to help you along your journey.”
Redmond Bernhold was the class salutatorian, and in his speech, thanked family members who paved the way for him.
Bernhold’s great-grandmother was salutatorian of her Minster class in 1927, and her daughter, Patricia Bernhold was salutatorian of her class in 1952.
“Although Patricia has since passed, I know from family stories that her work ethic matched her mother’s,” said Bernhold.
His mother, Audra, was salutatorian of her 1986 Fort Loramie class.
“My mom and dad have taught me so much about the value of hard work,” he said.
His brother, Quinten, was valedictorian of his Minster class in 2011.
Bernhold said that one lesson he’s learned throughout high school is self-determination.
“If I want something, I need to earn it. That is what I encourage each and every one of you to do when we move on from this chapter of life,” he said. “Without self-determination, success would die in darkness. Take advantage of every opportunity in the workforce, military, college and
all future endeavors. Class of ‘22, I see great things in our future. Thank you for the great memories we have experienced as a class.”
In her valedictorian speech, senior Ava Grieshop recounted some lessons she had learned in her years at Minster.
“Parents, teachers, coaches, families, friends and faculty: The class thanks you for all you’ve done for us,” said Grieshop. “From the first day of kindergarten to our last moments together as a class, we are here to celebrate the everlasting memories and accomplishments of the class of 2022.”
The first lesson was to challenge yourself.
“Whether it be taking challenging classes in school or trying almost every high school sport, each of us has had the chance to step out of our comfort zone and take a risk,” she said.
Staying true to one’s self was another piece of advice.
“Consider Minster as a root of a big oak tree. We started off as a small seed that was planted when we were born. This is home,” said Grieshop. “This is where we were raised by our parents, teachers and community here at Minster. Then as we age, we grow away from these roots and flourish into a beautiful tree with beautiful leaves. This is our future. The foundation of our future lies here at Minster. Be proud of your roots. They are what make you who you are, and will be the stability to find happiness in the future.”
During her speech, Superintendent Brenda Boeke said that the class of 2022’s first day of school was on Aug. 25, 2009 and she recounted some of the careers that the students wanted to be when they grew up.
Careers ranged from race car drivers and firefighters to cheerleaders, teachers, princesses, veterinarians and many more.
But she pointed out that some of the students have stayed on a similar path.
“Mary [Schmiesing] wanted to be a teacher and she’ll be headed to BG this fall studying middle childhood education,” said Boeke. “Jenna [Schulze] also wanted to be a teacher and will be going to BG to study secondary education to be an English teacher. Johnny [Nixon] wanted to be a baseball player and he’ll be headed to Mount Vernon Nazarene University on a baseball scholarship.”
Boeke said that the class of 2022 was the last first grade held at the Hanover Street school and they were the first class that got to perform a musical on the stage in the commons outside the gym.
“Your journey at Minster Schools ends today, but there were so many special moments along the way,” said Boeke. “I have no doubt your class will continue to roll as your educational journey continues at a trade school, adult education program, college or the workforce. During your school career at Minster, you have been taught how to be amazing and how to get your grow on at the elementary school. At the high school you were taught the Wildcat Way and also taught to give the extra degree.”
Boeke was emotional during her speech, as Sunday served as her last commencement ceremony and she will be retiring as superintendent.
“Over the course of your 13 years, you have learned what it takes to succeed, and based on who I see sitting before me, you are well on your way,” she said. “Graduates, I urge you to envision a world where we all practice the Golden Rule of treating others the way we want to be treated. Now go out and make that world a reality. It’s an honor to be a Wildcat.”