Caps fill the air at the conclusion of graduation exercises for the York Suburban High School Class of 2013.
In a sun filled stadium with a comfortable breeze blowing, 176 seniors received their diplomas at York Suburban High School commencement exercises on Wednesday, June 5.
Speakers for the Class of 2013 graduation were: (front row) Sarah Gutekunst, Student Council treasurer; Helen Gunn, National Honor Society president; and Alicia Baker, co-valedictorian. (Back row) Andrew Toman, vice president of Student Council; Michael Hogg, Class of 2013 president; and Christopher Covert, co-valedictorian.
For the first time in 10 years, the class had co-valedictorians.
It was a busy day for the graduates, beginning in the morning with a Class of 2013 photo taken in the gymnasium and followed by rehearsal for the evening ceremony.
Returning to the school shortly after 6 p.m. the students robed in the auditorium, lobby, and hallway of the high school.
Entering Dick May Field from the far end of the outdoor venue, the members of the class passed through a double line of cheering and applauding faculty members, administrators and school board members.
The 54th commencement exercises began with musical selections by the concert band and then the concert choir. Prior to the presentation of the colors, Student Council treasurer Sarah Gutekunst welcomed the more than 1,000 family members and friends attending the ceremony.
Student Council vice president Andrew Toman gave a moment of reflection before York Suburban School Board member Lois Ann Schroeder brought greetings from the board.
Helen Gunn, president of the National Honor Society, introduced student speakers Alicia Baker and Christopher Covert, co-valedictorians, and Michael Hogg, president of the Class of 2013. Principal Brian Ellis presented each valedictorian with a special plaque before giving his remarks.
The Class of 2013 was presented by Dr. Denise Fuhrman and Christopher Adams, Assistant Principals, and diplomas were handed to each student by Superintendent Dr. Kate Orban and Assistant Superintendents Dr. Michele Merkle and Dr. Patricia Maloney.
As they left the stage, each student was presented with a red rose.
Michael Hogg closed the program and 176 caps filled the air in celebration.
A reception in the cafeteria followed the ceremony.