The Manheim Township High School (MTHS) Class of 2022 celebrated its graduation on June 2 at Calvary Church, Lancaster, at 7 p.m. More than 450 students graduated.

The gathering was welcomed by MTHS principal David Rilatt prior to the processional. Following the playing of the national anthem, the MTHS Troubadours sang the alma mater under the direction of Samantha Haldeman.

Speaking on the subject of the new normal, Rachel Herr presented "New Identities," followed by Sophia Yost speaking on "New Mindsets," and Carina Bruno, who spoke about "New Directions."

Herr spoke about identities, saying, "Our identities can be shaped by the expectations of others. ...We can still find ways to claim other identities that we are proud of."

Yost recalled the day in March of 2020 when students were told school would be closed for two weeks. "We didn't know those two weeks would turn into two challenging years," she said. "We had to change our outlook and mindsets."

Bruno spoke about each student's path to the future. "My direction is not in my control, and yours isn't," she said. "Don't get stuck in extremes. Listen to other people's experiences and perspectives and wrestle with your thoughts."

The MTHS Troubadours sang "Live the Questions," followed by superintendent Robin Felty's announcement of the winners of the Distinguished Alumni Awards. This year's winners were Darla Bair of the Class of 1970, Edward Gallagher of the Class of 1977, and Karen Rice of the Class of 1988.

Senior class president Ayush Iyer presented the class gift - two podiums to be used in the school. "We carry with us powerful voices," said Iyer. "The two new podiums (are given) to the high school to continue to amplify the powerful voices at Manheim Township."

Rilatt's comments focused on the subject of "finishing strong." He noted that the Class of 2022 had exhibited a collective mentality to finish strong, pointing out that 131 seniors were graduating with high honors, 248 awards were presented to 155 seniors at Senior Awards Night, the quiz bowl team won the state championship, and six MTHS teams captured Lancaster-Lebanon League championships. Rilatt then presented the Lions Club Award for highest grade point average in the class to Riley Vakkas. Rilatt then certified that the students had met the academic requirements for graduation.

Felty accepted the Class of 2022, saying, "Tonight brings wonderful closure to many years of schooling ... stepping stones that prepared you for the achievement of a high school diploma." She added that the achievement represents a significant amount of work, dedication, and perseverance.

The class was presented by administrators Rilatt, Lisa Lyons, Marquis Jones, and Laura Rakoczy, as the Manheim Township Board of School Directors presented the diplomas. The ceremony concluded with Iyer directing the moving of the tassels, followed by the recessional music.

To view the entire ceremony, visit http://www.youtube.com and search for "Commencement for MTHS Class of 2022 - 6/2/2022."