BY DONNA SWICEGOOD

The 53 graduates of the Crossroads Arts and Science Early College undertook extraordinary challenges to complete their high school education.

And as a result, many left Mac Gray Auditorium on Friday carrying more than a high school diploma. They left with associate degrees or certifications in various fields, said principal Alicia Eller.

“You stayed the course,” Eller told the Class of 2026 during their graduation ceremony on Friday afternoon. “I am incredibly, incredibly proud of you,” she said.

A large number of the graduates earned summa cum laude status, and collectively the class members have been awarded $4.7 million in college scholarships.

For the graduates, however, the event was about celebrating and reflecting on their years as students at Crossroads.

“If you dream it, you can achieve it,” said Ja’Niya Curry, who delivered the opening remarks.

Mason Corriher, who spoke about inspiration, said during his years as a Crossroads student, he’d learned to never take the easy road.

“Why not take the risk?” he said. “So go out and take risks.”

Gregory Cain Jr. encouraged his classmates, saying graduation isn’t the end of the road. “You’re going to continue to learn,” he said.

Josiah Smith closed out the graduation. He said many of the Class of 2026 entered Crossroads as strangers or acquaintances but grew to become friends. “With change came growth,” he said.

Eller and all of the student speakers recognized the teachers and staff at Crossroads for helping them on their journey.

Prior to the presentation of the diplomas, Mike Williams, Crossroads social studies teacher, made the traditional announcement heard at most graduations now, asking everyone to hold their applause or cheers until the end of the ceremony. “Just kidding,” he said.

He encouraged the family and friends to allow their graduates to “feel the thunder.”