Richard Froese
South Peace News
Reaching a major milestone, the 2025 graduating class at Peace River Glenmary School was honoured at commencement ceremonies June 1.
Families and friends honoured the class of 52 students although only 48 walked the stage.
Today We’re Going to Try and Change the World was the motto for the celebration.
Glenmary principal Brendon Nichols congratulated the graduates on reaching an important point in their lives.
“Above all, don’t forget what matters most: time love, connection,” Nichols said.
“Give your time to the people you care about.
“Be present, be generous with your words, your laughter and your attention.
“No matter how far you go or how much you achieve, relationships will always be the foundation of a meaningful life.”
Nicholss reminded students to use the resources they possess.
“You already know what you have inside,” he advised.
“The answers to the questions you’re asking are within you.
“Listen to them – trust them.”
He then returned to the motto.
“Today, we’re going to try and change the world,” Nichols said.
“And maybe you won’t do it all at once. But if each of you walks out of here ready to lead, to grow, to serve and to stand up for what’s right, then you’ve already begun.”
He then encouraged students as they leave the school.
“Now go out there and make your mark!”
Each graduate received a certificate from the principal.
Graduating students were congratulated by Supt. Betty Turpin of Holy Family Catholic Regional Division and board chair Kelly Whalen.
Turpin encouraged graduates with words of advice, similar to what she has stated at past graduation ceremonies.
“Volunteer – any opportunity, give back to the community,” Turpin advised.
“Take care of the environment.
“The smallest of things can make the biggest of difference.”
She inspired graduates to pray often.
“Never underestimate the power of prayer in your life,” Turpin said.
“So, in happy moments, praise God; in difficult moments, seek God; in quiet moments, worship God; in painful moments, trust God and in every moment, thank God.”
She also urged graduates to vote in all elections – municipal, provincial and federal.
“Always have a say in who will be making decisions about your present and your future,” Turpin said.
She urged them to attend Remembrance Day ceremonies.
“Without the sacrifices of many men and women, we would not be enjoying the freedom we have today”
Class representatives Elisha Gelineau and Judah Marceau spoke on behalf of the graduates. They thanked their teachers, parents, families, friends and others who supported and motivated them along the way.
“Throughout all the struggles and hardships, you’ve encouraged us to keep going and to bounce back from our failures,” Marceau said.
“Your support means all the world to us.”
He added years of school and learning have prepared them for the next stage in life.
“We made it through these high school years stronger and more resilient than ever,” Marceau said.
“Throughout our time here, we have learned how to adapt to new situations with grace, patience and a clear mind. We are more prepared than ever for the rest of our lives. We are ready for change.”
Gelineau considered that changing the world may be a daunting task.
“That seems like a lot of pressure, doesn’t it?” Marceau said.
She added that leads to the next question.
“What does it mean to change the world?”
Marceau explained.
“It means looking out for your friends if they’re in a tough situation,” Marceau said.
“It means thanking your parents for feeding you after a long day.
“It means volunteering your time to help out your community.
“Although they may seem insignificant, those small acts accumulate over time, making a difference”
It often takes small steps, he added.
“We don’t need to change the world all at once,” Marceau said.
“But if we wake up every day with the intention to do a little good – to try, to grow, to be kind – then little by little, we will change the world.”
Gelineau gave words of wisdom to future students.
“If we could give any advice to future graduation classes, it would be to keep an open mind,” Gelineau said.
“If you have the opportunity to learn something new, take it.
“But if you take one step at a time, try your hardest in whatever you do and take chances. You will look back fondly on all your time here or at least some of it, just as I’m sure we all will.”
Guest speaker of the ceremonies was former school principal Victoria Cornick, who will become the new Holy Family superintendent on Aug. 1.
She gave graduates five key points.
“Start with small acts that matter,” Cornick said.
“Don’t wait to feel ready.
“Let values be your compass.
“Redefine what changing the world means.
“Keep learning, keep listening!”
