Dublin ISD presented diplomas to 72 graduates Friday, May 23 in a ceremony on Cervetto Field.
The event was a fitting celebration for a class that also amassed associates’ degrees for seven students, five welding certificates, four cosmetology degrees and more than $700,000 in scholarships. (See the story on page B1.)
Valedictorian Wendy Calderon addressed the crowd in both English and Spanish as she honored the people that impacted the life of her as well as her classmates. She credited teachers Leslie Curry (“Without her support, I would not be standing here today.”), ‘Mrs.
Leatherwood, Nanny G, Coach Perez, Mrs. Velasquez, and Coach Salinas’ for their support.
She also thanked families for their support from walking kids into their first day of kindergarten to sitting on the sidelines to their applause Friday night.
“Class of 2025, we are not just the future- we are the now,” said Calderon. “Go out explore the endless possibilities this world has to offer. Always remember that mistakes do not define us, they are just there to allow us to grow and always lift others along the way.”
Salutatorian Sydney Master quoted Harry Styles for her address: “Fill your own cup and let them fall in love with the overflow,” saying that when we take care of ourselves and ignore the pull to fit into others’ expectations, what we give to the world will be genuine.
“ For me, this lesson took on a deeper meaning this year,” said Master. “Losing my mother was one of the hardest things I’ve ever faced. She was my guide, my biggest supporter, and the person who would remind me to move forward—because she believed I could, even when I didn’t.. She taught me that showing up for yourself— especially when things are hard—is one of the strongest things a person can do. And I’ll carry that lesson with me forever.”
The 70+ graduates got to show their unique identity as many waved to the crowd and struck a pose as they walked to hug superintendent Melissa Summers, receive their diploma from school board president Bob Cervetto and have principal Norma Villicana-Arreguin move their tassels from right to left to signify their graduation.
During the ceremony, Bailey Watson delivered the invocation, Isabella Velazquez and Joel Sanchez led the Pledge of Allegiance, junior Addison Ivie sang the National Anthem (introduced by David Hernandez) and NavaLee White delivered the closing prayer.