41 graduate from BHS

HOPE – Hempstead Hall was packed Friday night as 41 seniors from Blevins High School received their diplomas.

The lobby was filled with graduates, their families and friends in preparation for the commencement exercises. Kim Ganado, a 2011 graduate of BHS, gave the commencement address, telling the graduates how he didn’t take school seriously until graduation and realized how unprepared he was for life after high school. During his time in high school, Ganado said he only thought about having fun. “After graduation I realized I’d made a mistake.”

Because he hadn’t applied himself, Ganado wasn’t eligible for any scholarships. With the help of his parents and work, he managed to attend Texas A&M at Texarkana. Once there he worked to do better and joined as many organizations as he could. “In high school I lacked focus and passion,” he told the Class of 2017. “You need to be prepared for what lies ahead. Nothing is simple and it will be a struggle.”

He told the graduates there would be times when they fail, but they need to use the experience, learn from it and keep going. Ganado pointed out some of the most successful people failed repeatedly but worked to overcome it. Failure, he said, isn’t defeat. “You need to quit being afraid of failure. Making excuses limits you. Be proud, confident, accountable and passionate. Listen instead of talking and believe in yourselves.”

Next up was Kaylee Kelton, the co-valedictorian. She talked about coming to Blevins in the seventh grade and being scared of being in new school where she didn’t know anyone or have any friends. However, she continued, new friends were made, as was the decision to be the class valedictorian. Another student, she said, had the same idea, Mason Campbell, who said he would be the valedictorian, but wouldn’t give the valedictory speech. The two became co-valedictorians and Kelton wound up speaking for the class.

“In my five years at Blevins,” she said, “I’ll never forget the struggles or the laughs.”

Aspen Watts provided the salutatory address, also reminiscing about her time at Blevins. “We’ll all be able to look back at BHSD and know this is where we started. Blevins will always be home for me. I’m thankful for my family, friends and the faculty and being able to grow up in a small town. This is the start of the rest of your lives. Don’t settle for less than you deserve.”