The Class of 2023 at Manheim Central High School marked commencement on June 8 at LCBC Church, Manheim. Featured speakers for the ceremony were Lauren Huber, Julianna Steach, Laura King and Madison Knier.

Lauren is the daughter of Scott and Gayle Huber of Lititz. At Manheim Central, she was class president, and she was active in Baron Stage and played on the tennis team, among other activities. She was also a member of the English, music and thespian honor societies. After graduation, she plans to attend HACC, Central Pennsylvania's Community College. At the ceremony, Lauren welcomed the members of the Class of 2023 and their friends and family.

Julianna, the daughter of Brandon and Samantha Steach of Manheim, spoke about the beauty in uncertain futures. "I've talked to so many friends about how we feel this great pressure to know what we are doing with our lives at just 17 or 18 years old," she said, "but the truth is, we have no clue. It's scary, but it also offers an amazing opportunity to explore our passions and make mistakes along the way." She was president of the Spanish Club and co-president of the Speech and Debate Club and also served as secretary of both the National Honor Society (NHS) and the National Spanish Honor Society. She plans to attend the University of Pittsburgh to study environmental engineering.

Laura is the daughter of Timothy and Stephanie King of Manheim. Her speech focused on everything the Class of 2023 has gone through. "That has made us stronger as a collective," she stated. "Our experience of overcoming hardships all throughout our schooling has prepared us for the ever-changing world beyond." After graduation, she plans to study biomedical engineering at the University of Kentucky. Her high school activities included running for the cross-country team, serving as co-president of the Speech and Debate Club and coaching Girls on the Run. She was also a member of NHS and the Math, History and Science honor societies.

Madison, the daughter of John and Judi Knier of Manheim, spoke about embracing mistakes rather than making excuses. "I also discussed how the goal of demonstrating leadership qualities and exemplifying role model characteristics has helped me through my high school career," she said. At Manheim Central, she was a member of NHS and served as historian for the Spanish Club. She also played varsity volleyball and basketball, participated in track and field and was a member of the varsity cheerleading team as the school's mascot. Her post-graduation plans include attending the University of Pennsylvania to study psychology and participate with the school's track and field team.