Mission Bay High’s graduating class of 2023 sent nearly 300 students out into the world to seek their destinies with pomp and circumstance at commencement ceremonies held on June 14 at the school’s stadium.
This year’s four MBHS valedictorians – Mica Talarico-Smith, Aliyah Al-Khafaji, Gaspard Robo, and Jean-Baptiste Vidon – as well as salutatorian Sophie Cacdac, were all in the International Baccalaureate program coming from families with deep global roots outside PB and San Diego.
During the graduation ceremony, the national anthem was sung by students Ava Strickland and Paulina Perez. Graduating students were then welcomed by Emily Palmore, ASB Council president.
“Today we gather to honor each and every senior’s academic accomplishments, their hard work and dedication, but, most importantly, their growth,” said Palmore. “Over these four years, students have watched each other grow up. Some of us have been together since kindergarten, while others may have moved schools, states, or even countries to join our class. MBHS has been a shared home for all of us, and the launching point for the rest of our lives.”
Continued Palmore: “We will all cherish the memories and relationships created here at Mission Bay. These years have taught us resilience, perseverance, kindness, and compassion. Out of the many things I’ve learned these past four years, this is the piece of advice that has stuck with me the most: Although at the moment things may seem impossible to overcome, every challenge and hardship serves its own purpose. Whether that be to strengthen us, help us gain a great understanding of ourselves, or simply to change our perspective, know that life will be filled with rejections and failures. But it is what you make of them that truly shapes who you become.”
Class president Lauren Pelot evoked Dr. Seuss in addressing the Class of ’23 stating: “Congratulations. Today is your day. You’re off to great places, you’re off and away. You know what you know, and you are the guide who’ll decide where to go. You’ll ride high, ready for anything under the sky, ready because you’re that kind of guy. Oh, the places you’ll go, and will you succeed? Yes, you will indeed.”
The four valedictorians and salutatorian gave a joint speech in which they collectively said: “We want to thank everyone who supported us on our journey – friends, family, faculty. Without all of you, this wouldn’t have been possible. We’d like to thank our teachers for making online learning during COVID much more approachable. Let’s go invent tomorrow, rather than worry about what happened yesterday.
“We could fill the entire class with people we believe are worthy of the esteemed valedictorian title. This simple fact speaks to the quality of our graduating class, one that we’re sure will flourish in the seemingly uncertain future that lies ahead. Dreaming big is essential, even if it sounds cliché. We can turn to the Class of 2023 to inspire us in the future.”
Principal Dr. Eric Brown capped things off at the graduation ceremony by stating: “Today is a day of celebration, reflection, and anticipation as we gather here to bid farewell to these senior Buccaneers, I cannot help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride and joy. It is an honor, truly, to stand here before you witnessing the transformation that each one of you has undergone.
“Today, we not only recognize your academic achievements but also the growth you’ve experienced as individuals. Today marks the culmination of your high school experience, a chapter in your life that shaped you in countless ways. The memories that you have forged here at Mission Bay, all the friendships you’ve established, and the knowledge you’ve gained have all prepared you for the challenges that lie ahead. I strongly encourage you to remember the lessons you have learned both in and outside of, the classroom. Be the change you want to see in the world and inspire others to join you on that journey.”
