Once again the Alba-Golden community very nearly filled the 1,500-seat Sulphur Springs Civic Center auditorium to witness the graduation of an Alba-Golden High School class. The 58-member class of 2022 celebrated among classmates, friends and family Friday as the students joined the community as high school graduates. 

Valedictorian Thai Peterson delivered cogent remarks which directly challenged the class to “be bold, be ambitious, and fight for what is worth fighting for.” Salutatorian Michael Gaskill’s remarks perfectly introduced Peterson’s address. Gaskill centered his remarks on a quote from Abraham Lincoln – “whatever you become, be a good one.” The salutatorian credited teacher Dana Wade as perpetuating that concept at Alba-Golden High School. 

In addition to the two brief yet powerful speeches, the ceremony was highlighted by recognition of four graduates who will soon begin service in uniform. Staff Sergeant William Suits, U.S. Army, announced the four young graduates – Dodge Chapa, Matthew Currie, James Hallman and Eathan Thorn. 

Incoming superintendent Macie Thompson recounted some of the many accomplishments which the seniors spearheaded this scholastic year. In addition to the banner year achieved in football, volleyball, baseball, and track and field, loud cheers also erupted for the award-winning one-act play as well as the decorated fishing team.      

As is customary, the class officers spoke to many of the memories created among the closely-knit school community.

After a number of anecdotes, the officers ended their comments with the thought that each graduate should be thankful for one another. A similar theme, of thanks, was set early in the ceremony by Cassidi Burris who offered the invocation. 

Most notably, the class of 2022 concluded their high school careers with a stage full of beaming smiles.