Donegal Graduation Speakers Encourage Classmates

If there's one thing the Class of 2022 understands, it's how to adapt. That's the message valedictorian Hunter Gehman related when he spoke at Donegal High School's graduation on June 2. He was joined on stage by fellow speakers Diavionne Musser and Ryan Bedi.

"My speech revolved around how our class's experiences have prepared us for the future, specifically regarding our ability to adapt to change," he said. "I also emphasized how our class is ready to make a difference in the world because of everything we've already overcome together." Hunter, who is the son of Seth and Rosalyn Gehman of Mount Joy, said his plans after high school include attending Bucknell University to study either electrical engineering or computer science. He hopes to pursue a career in one of those fields and at some point start his own specialized small business. Donegal has provided him with the tools he needs to succeed in the future, he stated, adding, "The teachers and staff were consistently able to cater to my educational needs and provide me with any resources necessary to handle a difficult course load."

Diavionne, who was named class salutatorian, is the daughter of Crystal Colon and Clint Musser of Maytown. She gave a speech titled "Growing Through Life." Her speech focused on how members of the Class of 2022 can grow as individuals beyond their high school years. "We have matured a lot already, but I want to emphasize that the new era of adulthood we are entering is a prime opportunity to embrace change," she stated. "The thought of change is frightening to some on the day of graduation, and my goal is to shine an optimistic light on the change that we are experiencing." After graduation, she plans to attend Temple University as an honors student and major in genomic medicine with the goal of becoming a genetic counselor. "I'm so glad I went to Donegal, because everyone has a place in our tight-knit community," she stated.

For class president Ryan, his years at Donegal provided the opportunity to find his true passion. He plans to attend Youngstown State University to earn a bachelor's degree in theater. "My future career plans are to go into the entertainment industry and learn as much as I possibly can and work on as many projects as possible," he stated. Ryan, the son of Michael and Melissa Bedi, presented a speech titled "From Kindergarten to College and Everything in Between." "My speech (welcomed) my class to the final moments of high school, revisiting all the precious moments in our 12 years together," he said.

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