The 452 seniors who graduated from McNary High School last week walked out the door with more than diplomas.

The 60^th graduating class from the school also is banking $16.5 million in scholarships.

The class included 17 valedictorians and nine salutatorians.

But every graduate got attention on Friday, June 6, during commencement at the Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavilion.

Earlier in the week, seniors participated in other traditions.

They went through a sort-of practice graduation during a school assembly on Wednesday, June 4. Those who wanted also traveled to local elementary schools for the Parade of Honor.

School officials advised the seniors that the parade “is an opportunity for you to return to your elementary school while wearing your cap and gown.  This is a neat experience and lets our elementary kiddos know what they are working towards.”

On Friday, the seniors – and their guests in the stands – listened to speeches, crossed the stage to get their diploma and performed the class cheer. 

Finally, they got to turn their tassels and head off into life.

Jordyn Hill, one of the valedictorians, was the senior speaker.

“We started our high school careers readjusting to life in person. That entailed attending school with masks and getting comfortable with one another again, while at the same time trying to figure out how to become more independent,” Hill said. “Despite those obstacles we’ve grown and matured, sometimes without even realizing it.”

Hill urged the seniors to thank relatives and friends for their support. And on behalf of the seniors, she thanked the McNary staff.

“You believed in us when many of us didn’t believe in ourselves,” she said. “People have often described McNary as a community, and it wouldn’t be like that without all of you.”

And Hill addressed her fellow graduates. 

“Every one of us sitting here today is taking the next step toward our future dreams and goals—even though we may not feel ready,” she said. “Some of us are heading to college, some are joining the workforce, and others are going to trade school.” 

Valedictorians included Carson Brown, Isabelle Faulkner, Jordyn Hill, Hannah Maurer, Laura Mueller, Chloe Schwinof, Daniel Cooper III, Cadence Fineran, Tehya Lewis, Karah Miller, Amanda Prather, Ayryn Downing, Cameron Harrington, Alondra Martinez, Brooke Moreland, Sofie Schurr and Maezie Williams. 

Salutatorians included Lucille Burroughs, Isabel Knori, Lucas Perdue, Virginia Haley, Isabella Lucas, Elizabeth Tavares, Emelia Kimsey, Ian Mora and Lainey VanSlyke.

NEWS TIP? Send your suggestion or tip to [email protected].

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DIGITAL NEWS SERVICE: Get around-the-clock access to news about Keizer with a digital subscription to the Keizertimes. It’s secure, is available at $10 a month, and takes just a moment when you go HERE. Your support for local journalism is vital.