BY COOPER HALL

The Lake Norman High School Class of 2025 graduated Saturday morning to the cheers and applause of their families, friends, teachers, and coaches, who have supported them throughout their high school journeys.

The ceremony opened with the Wildcat Vocal Symphony singing the school’s alma mater, followed by the presentation of the colors and the singing of the national anthem by Devin Rinberg, a graduating senior.

Principal Bill Shapcott took the stage to welcome and congratulate the graduates. He recognized the graduates’ support systems, prompting them to stand and thank their families and friends in the stands. It took the support of those closest to the graduates to help them navigate the many challenges they faced during their time in high school.

Shapcott spoke through tears as he reflected on watching the students grow from freshmen to seniors, again recognizing the community that has carried them through it all.

“It takes a village, and we are lucky to have had this one,” he said.

Shapcott encouraged the graduates to face their future and the obstacles it holds head on.

“Every challenge is an invitation to grow. Don’t be afraid to take that path that is uncertain. Be brave enough to fail and wise enough to learn from it,” he said.

After concluding his remarks with “Go Wildcats!” Shapcott invited Senior Class President Alyssa Enders to the podium.

Enders expressed her appreciation to everyone who has supported her and her peers through their high school experience.

She also offered her fellow grads comfort if they were unsure of their future.

“It’s okay to make mistakes, and don’t take things too seriously,” she said.

Joshua Weakland, one of the Honors Speakers, followed Enders. He emphasized the importance of the small actions that, when added together, can carry you to the big, celebratory moments.

“To the Class of 2025, keep finding greatness in the small moments,” Weakland said.

Honors Speaker Payton Seldomridge also highlighted the strong Wildcats community. She talked about how their time in high school has prepared them to excel in the real world.

“We matured from scared, inexperienced freshmen into strong adults ready to make an impact on the world,” Seldomridge said.

She encouraged her fellow graduates to go into the world with a belief in themselves and their ability.

At the conclusion of the speeches, the LNHS Senior Chorus performed “From Now On,” the lyrics echoing that while they move forward, the graduates will always “come back home.”

Finally, the graduates’ names were called. The students crossed the stage and received their diplomas, turned their tassels and threw their caps as they officially became the LNHS Class of 2025.

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