001[Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. [Applause] [Music] [Applause] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. [Applause] Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] Heat up here. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Please remain standing for the posting of the colors and our pledge of allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America. America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Please be seated. Parents, relatives, and friends, the senior class is looking forward to a graduation ceremony that we can all remember with pride for years to come. As part of this special event, each student's name will be read
002aloud as they walk across the stage to be recognized for their achievements. This class has overcome many challenges throughout their high school journey, and we are proud to celebrate their perseverance and their success. We warmly encourage you to join in the celebration by clapping and cheering for your child as their name is called. But we do ask for your cooperation with one important request. Once your child has exited the stage, please allow the next student to be honored by pausing your applause. This ensures that every graduate has their moment to be recognized and celebrated by their loved ones. Thank you for helping us honor the class of 2025 with the respect and dignity they deserve on this significant occasion. At this time, please welcome to the podium our principal, Mrs. Michelle Ramsey. [Applause] Good morning
003and welcome to the 2025 Galileo commencement ceremony. As we begin our ceremony, I would like to recognize a few individuals. First, I would like to recognize and thank the Danville Public School Board members. Please stand as I call your name. Schoolboard Chair, Mr. Taquan Graves. School board Vice Chair, Miss Kesha Aett, Mr. Tyrell Payne, Miss Casey Cunningham, Dr. Keith Silverman, who was unable to attend today, Miss Kesha Walker, and Dr. Corey Williams. Next, I would like to recognize the superintendent of Danville Public Schools, Dr. Angela Haristen. Thank you, Dr. Harrison, and school board members for your continued support of our students, faculty, and the Galileo community. At this time, I would like to recognize any elected Danville City officials with us this morning. If you're an elected official, please stand so we may recognize you.
004If you are a part of the Danville public school system central office staff or an administrator within the district, please [Applause] stand. Thank you for joining us this morning. I would also like to recognize one individual whose contribution has been instrumental in making this school year successful. Would our assistant principal, Mr. Shannon Johnson, please stand? Your dedication to our schools, staff, students, and community have been nothing short of extraordinary. And your tireless work behind the scenes and your visible leadership has been vital to the success of our school. So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you. A commencement ceremony is always such a special occasion. The culmination of years of hard work, the actualization of goals attained, and the acknowledgment of successes achieved. Seeing everyone here today is a testament to the achievements of
005the graduates and the love and support they have received over the years. Graduates, you did not make it this far on your own. There have been many people along the way serving as your biggest supporters. I would like to recognize three groups of people that have been integral part of your experience. First, I want to recognize your teachers. Your teachers have not only served as your instructors, but also as mentors, supporters, and confidants throughout your educational journey. At this time, I kindly ask the Galileo faculty and staff to please stand. To our incredible educators, I extend my deepest gratitude. Your unwavering dedication, passion for teaching, and commitment to student success have made a lasting impact on each and every graduate here today. Thank you for your hard work, your guidance, and the difference you make
006every day. Your efforts do not go unnoticed. Thank [Applause] you. Next, I'd like to recognize our parents and guardians. I can only imagine the range of emotions you're feeling today. Over the past few weeks, you've likely spent time reminiscing, reflecting on how quickly the years have passed. This morning, on my drive here, I found myself thinking of you. As a mother of a five-year-old, I tried to imagine what today must feel like for you. It wasn't too long ago that your child was reaching for your hand in the parking lot or needing your comfort during moments of fear. And now they are ready to step forward, confident and prepared to spread their wings. Parents and guardians, this day is yours just as much as it is theirs. Your love, support, guidance, and patience have helped
007shape these students into who they are today. At this time, I kindly ask all parents and guardians to please stand so we can express our heartfelt appreciation for everything you have done. [Applause] The final group I'd like to recognize today are those who cannot be with us. I imagine that many of you graduates, perhaps all, have someone in your heart whom you wish could be here to celebrate this special moment. A parent, a sibling, a grandparent, a family member, or a friend. While graduation is a joyful and celebratory occasion, it can also be a time when we feel the absence of those we've lost. For some, there may be a quiet ache, a space that can't be filled, where love and memory remain. It's in moments like these that happiness and sorrow gently intertwine. Whoever
008that person is for you today, we take a moment to honor them. At this time, I ask that we join together in a moment of silence in memory of those who are not with us, but who will always remain in our hearts. Thank you. One person I would like to honor and remember today is a member of the class of 2025 who is no longer with us. Miss Nyla Red. Though Nyla is not here physically, her spirit and the impact she had on her classmates and our school community remain with us. She will always be a part of the Galileo family. While we mourn the loss of a bright life taken too soon, we also celebrate the love, dreams, and memories that Nyla leaves behind. In recognition of her journey at Galileo, we would like
009to present an honorary diploma to her mother, Miss Chevy Wilkerson. Miss Wilkinson, will you please come forward? [Applause] Miss Wilkinson, on behalf of the faculty, staff, and the class of 2025, please accept this honorary diploma as a symbol of our love, respect, and remembrance. Nyla will always hold a special place in our hearts. [Applause] While life holds its bittersweet moments, we must not lose sight of the sweetness of this moment and the joy it brings as we celebrate together. Graduates, today is about you. It is a day to celebrate your accomplishments, your growth, the incredible journey you've taken through your educational career. This is a moment filled with pride, joy, and anticipation for what lies ahead. This particular group holds a very special place in my heart. I've had a privilege of watching you learn,
010lead, struggle, overcome, and grow into the remarkable individuals you are today. And of course, it wouldn't be the class of 2025 without making a memorable exit. from stealing teacher parking spots to decorating our halls with an impressive amount of toilet paper and caution tape. And let's not forget my personal favorite, the teacher hall of fame. Still don't know how you found that picture. You certainly made your mark. Although I must say I still believe the adults won the prank war. Graduates, there are four simple challenges that I want you to take with you as you leave Galileo. Let's start back with freshman year. Rise up. In the words of Andre Day, when you're broken down and tired, you can't find the fighter. Rise up. Rise up unafraid. Rise up high like the waves. Rise up
011in spite of the ache. Sophomore year fypp I challenge you to fuel your passion in order to find your purpose. I urge you to find out what you're passionate about and then chase after that. If you lose sight of your passion, you ultimately lose sight of your purpose. And I'm here today to tell you that each and every one of you have a purpose on this earth. Junior year, stay undefeated. You will not always win in life, and that's okay. You see, if you learn from your losses, then you can count those losses as wins. As long as you stay focused and persevere, there is no stopping you. And finally, let's reflect on your last year at Galileo. We encouraged you with the phrase, "Don't wipe out Falcons." Hang 10. Now, for those unfamiliar with
012hang 10, it's an advanced surfing skill. It's when an expert surfer not only catches the wave, but walks to the front of the board while riding the wave, curling all 10 toes around the nose of the board. With focus, balance, and control, the surfer rides the wave with grace and confidence. This year, we challenged you to do the same by embracing the 10 traits of the IBLearner profile. Communicators, reflective, inquirers, knowledgeable, principled, risktakers, open-minded, balanced, thinkers, and caring. Each of these traits represents the essence of what it means to be a thoughtful, engaged, and compassionate human being. If you carry these qualities with you, if you truly live them, you are more than ready to ride the waves of life with confidence and purpose. It has been a great experience getting to know each of
013you and I'm excited to hear all about your future adventures. And please know I will be right here cheering you on along the way. Congratulations class of 2025. [Applause] At this time, please welcome to the podium our superintendent, Dr. Angela [Applause] Harrison. Thank you, Miss Ramsay, and congratulations to the class of 25. Now, you have recognized everyone in here, Miss Ramsay. Last evening following our graduation, I received an email from the Virginia Department of Education. And of more than the 1,000 principles that qualified for this honor, this inaugural honor, Miss Ramsay, our Michelle Ramsay was recognized or is recognized as a principal of the year for outstanding and leading outstanding academic achievement in the Danville public schools. So, I want us to give her recognition and through applause and thank you so much. Thank you.
014We have an amazing principal and she's recognized throughout the state at this point and there were very few on that list. So, thank you so much for your leadership. To the class of 25, a resilient and remarkable group. You have reached this milestone after navigating one of the most unique and challenging journeys in recent history. Many of you began your ninth grade year amid the uncertainty of a global pandemic. And yet, you are here. You have not only adapted, but you have grown stronger. Your perseverance through such times speaks volumes for your character and your willingness to move forward. This morning I would like to recognize two exceptional members of the class of 2025. Our validictorian and our saludiatoran. These students exemplify what it means to pursue excellence not just academically but in all areas
015of life. Grades do not only define them. That's not the only thing that they focus upon. They are thoughtful. They are driven. and they are well-rounded young ladies. Despite their differences, they share powerful qualities that have shaped their success and inspired them to all of us to around them. First, a positive attitude. I know a c a couple of you all very well in the in the uh in the class, but I can tell you that these young ladies exemplify a positive attitude of what it means to maintain a positive attitude in the face of challenges. They face them with optimism. They face every thing before them with a positive attitude. They are driven. They're driven to be challenged. They actively seek challenges and opportunities to grow, stepping aside and outside of their comfort zone,
016an understanding of hard work. Sometimes, folks, I think we forget the benefits of hard work and that you're here today because of hard work. But these young ladies certainly exemplify that for us. Perseverance and tough times. They've overcome obstacles with resilience, refusing to let setbacks define them and kindness. Those of us who know these young ladies know that they are very kindspirited young ladies and that will take them to another level. Sometimes I think we forget how far kindness can take us in this life. So these traits not only set them apart as academic leaders but also as role models for their peers probably role models for all of us. Together let's celebrate our valadictorian our saludiatoran. We will begin with our valadictorian Jerusa Ella Theodore. So if you will come [Applause] forward let's give
017her another round of applause again. a positive attitude, willing to be challenged, the understanding of hard work, willingness to work through tough times, and kindness. Our saludiatoran, Elizabeth Sophia Elizabeth Chiron Marowitz. [Applause] It is always an honor to recognize a valadictorian and a saludiatoran, but more than that, it's an honor to stand before you and congratulate you as a class of 2025. Thank you. Thank you, Dr. Harrison. At this time, please welcome to the podium our school board chair for Danville Public Schools, Mr. Taquan Graves. [Applause] Good morning. Y'all can do better than that. Good morning. So, this group is just a little too quiet for me. So, I need you to do a do me a favor. This is a celebration. I need you all to stand. Let's recognize this class of 2025. There
018we go. What a powerful and joyful moment this is standing here looking out at a sea of bright futures, proud families, friends, and devoted educators. As chairman of the Danville public school board, it is both my privilege and my heartfelt honor to welcome you to the graduation ceremony of the Galileo Magnet High School class of 2025. I have the honor to have the school board with me. I know you've been recognized, but if you would stand to be recognized just another time. [Applause] Today's a celebration of perseverance, of passion, and of purpose. And before we say anything else, let's take a moment to thank the people who helped make this possible. To the parents and families, I know you've been recognized once, but I think you should be recognized again. The ones who worked overtime,
019who skipped meals, who stayed up waiting for a safe return, who never stopped saying, "You can do this." Thank you. Let's recognize our parents again. [Applause] Your love laid the foundation for this victory. Your love, your sacrifices, your constant support have been a driving force behind everything we celebrate today. And to the educators, staff, and leaders of the Galileo Magna High School, let's recognize them again. You are the champions behind the scenes. You've poured your energy, your knowledge, and your heart into these students. You've inspired them to dream boldly, think critically, and grow beyond what even they thought was possible. And this morning, we celebrate you. Galileo Magnet High School isn't just a school. It's a launching pad. This is where creativity meets rigor, where innovation meets excellence, and bright minds are challenged to reach
020higher, dig deeper, and go further. This is a place where the bar isn't just raised, it's redefined. And to the class of 2025, you did it. Give yourselves a round of applause. You faced pressure. You tackled adversity. And you kept going. You held on to your goals. You supported one another. And you made it to this moment stronger, wiser, and ready. Some of you face long odds. You may have been told directly or indirectly that you wouldn't make it this far, that you'd be just another statistic. But you've proved them wrong. You are so much more than just a number. You are scholars. You are innovators. You are thinkers. the problem solvers, the leaders this world needs. And whether you're heading to college, into the workforce, the military, or forging your own path, you carry
021the Galileo legacy with you. A legacy of brilliance, of bold thinking, and of doing things differently. You're not limited by the zip code. You're not bound by anyone else's expectations. You are free. You are free to dream big, to reach far, and to define success on your own terms. There's a lyric from a song that Miss Ramsay's already quoted by Andre Day that always gives me chills. I'll rise up. I'll rise like the day. I'll rise up. I'll rise unafraid. That's what you've done, class of 2025. And that's what you'll keep doing. So, I need another favor from you guys. Let's stand again and recognize the class of 2025. Thank [Applause] you. Thank you, Mr. Graves. I am honored to introduce to you this morning our guest speaker for the 2025 commencement ceremony. Jonathan McCain
022is a graduate of Galileo Magnet High School, class of 2015. So, just 10 short years ago, you were in those seats. He currently serves as a college counselor at Henderson Collegiate High School, where for the past three years, 100% of his senior class has been accepted into a 4-year university program. Previously, he served as a sixth grade history teacher. He graduated with a dual major in public policy in philosophy from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He also obtained his mers in public administration and public policy from American University in Washington DC. He is currently enlisted in the US National Guard where he hopes to serve our country as an officer. As an educator, he builds social capital with his students by overseeing community service with the Key Club while also teaching kids
023how to advocate for positive social change through generation vote. Jonathan is married to the lovely Melinda Smith, a dedicated social worker and graduate of Tulain University. He enjoys spending time with his pets and binge watching Brooklyn 999. Please welcome to the podium our guest speaker, Mr. Jonathan [Applause] McCain. I promise my speech is only five minutes long, but it's weird because I'm taller than my teachers now. Um, but good morning and a heartfelt thank you to the Danville School Board, the Galileo Magnet High School community, and just the city of Danville for inviting me to speak before our future. I know that being called the future comes with a certain heaviness. But as I reflected on my journey which started I thought we were at the institute but which started before these same people over
02410 years ago. Uh I can confidently I can confidently say that this group of amazing students are our future. Our future leaders, our future builders and I can say that the future certainly is bright. A decade ago I stood behind this very podium proclaiming we can't be stopped after surviving being a full IB student. Can we just give a hand for our IB students? 10 years later, and I still remember that trauma, dealing with Mr. Smith's history essay exams, Mr. Sllayton's grammar's test, and Wiler's quick wit, my class and I, as we received our diplomas, we felt unstoppable. But to the class of 2025, this is your moment. This is your time to feel on top of the world. And 10 years later, my message is the same. To the amazing class of 2025, I
025still say you can't be stopped. However, as I'm getting older now, there are some asterisks. You see, during this time, you're filled with hope and your eyes are on the future. As Mr. Gibson said, he was a biology teacher back in the day when I was a fresh eight-year-old. There are moments in your life that are peaks. Enjoy them as they come. While the future is bright, I want to give you some advice that I wish someone had given to me as I joyfully celebrated my own graduation 10 years ago. Like I told Wiler, can y'all see the theme? Uh during my journey, I was too dependent on what others thought instead of following my own dreams and ambitions. I carelessly leaned on what society and those around me told me I should do. To
026the class of 2025, you know right from wrong. You know the yearning that is deep in your hearts. My advice to you is to follow it and don't let go. Following my heart led me to being an educator out in Henderson, North Carolina, where again my students have been accepted into four-year universities. By believing in myself, thanking in myself, not only did I have the experiences of being an educator, but I was able to help others. To the class of 2025, sometimes you might find it easy to get overwhelmed. As I walked the halls of Chapel Hill, the campus of American University, gained experience after experience. Over the past 10 years, I wanted to do it all. I wanted to be a policy analyst, a philosopher, a politician, an instructional coach, a nonprofit founder, and
027save the environment. However, as I began to slow down, my advice to you is just take it slow. I realize that I'm human. My energy can only be directed towards one place. Grab hold of your dreams, class of 2025, and don't let go. As I passed the physical at MEPS, I began to dream, oh wow, I could be an officer in the US Army. However, when I began to run that first mile, let's just say I have to do a lot of training. But I can promise you, every pushup, every step is pushing me towards my goal. And it is the small things that you all will do that will contribute to make your grand dreams real. And finally, no matter where your path leads, enjoy each moment, even the hard times. There have been
028plenty of highs in my life, and there have also been plenty of lows. I've dealt with broken promises, broken dreams, and sometimes even isolation. The journey of a thousand miles, as they say, is not going to be easy. There will be mountains to climb. And at Henderson Collegiate, we have the saying, "And beyond one mountain, there are other mountains." Class of 2025, I want to say to you, you do not have to be on this journey alone. Your family, your friends, the communities that you will build are there for you. And you do not have to go alone. I do want to plug going to therapy because mental health matters. Y'all, even in the hard moments, remember your dream. Remember your goal and why you started your journey. There are two sayings that I've learned
029over the past year. That the only way out is through. and to embrace the suck. Sometimes to reach our goals, we have to go through and that can involve doing hard things. As an educator, as I'm sure your teachers will tell you and the people in this podium, I have worked 12 to 14 hour days. I have held multiple jobs at once. I obtained my master's degree during the COVID pandemic. Each goal comes with its own set of challenges that you will have to face headon. As I close, the Buddha says that we cannot escape our karma. We cannot escape our actions. I do not know where your path will lead. I do not know what has happened in your journey so far. But I want to say to the class of 2025, the Galileo
030community, the city of Danville, remember that you can't be stopped. Embrace your goals and work towards them. You are capable and you are worthy. Thank you for allowing me to speak before you all today. And remember, you, the class of 2025, are unstoppable. [Applause] Thank you, Jonathan. We have a token of appreciation for bringing the 2025 commencement address. We are extremely proud of you and are excited to hear about your future endeavors. Thank you so much. Thank you very much. Thank you. At this time, please join in welcoming the class of 2025 validictorian, Miss Jerusa Theodore, and the class of 2025 saludiatoran, Miss Sophia Marowitz, to the podium as they present a combined speech entitled, "Where is the other half? [Applause] Good morning, families, friends, teachers, and graduates. Today is the day we've been waiting
031for. Today represents all of our successes and hard work. All that we have done since the instant we stepped into that glorious Sears building has led us to this exact moment. From the 2023 cross country state championship win to the twotime quiz bowl state championship runnerup team, the class of 2025 has had a multitude of successes across all fields. Whether that be sports, academics, or the arts, we have truly outdone ourselves. Therefore, we would like to extend our deepest congratulations to the rest of class of 2025. Since we are valictorians, we decided to do this speech together. But most importantly, we decided to speak together because we are best friends. I wouldn't be here without my other half. And today we'd like to share our story. It's August of 2021, freshman orientation day. I looked
032around the red, white, and blue cafeteria to find that I was surrounded by masked strangers. I sat at the table next to the only person I knew, my future co- captain, Maya Hearnden. But suddenly, a fellow 5'1 girl sat down next to me, and she had by far the most interesting name I have ever heard, Jerusa. I mean, have you ever met someone named Jerusa? Me neither. Fast forward to the first day of school. We were now halfway through the day and it was time for English class. I sat down as the room began to fill. There was only one desk remaining, the one behind me. On the way to third block, I, as many of you could probably guess, had to use the restroom. I walked into my English class with only one minute
033to spare and saw only one desk available, the one behind the girl from orientation. Little did I know, but this one choice would have a significant impact on the rest of my life. Through this seating arrangement, we bondered over our mutual fear of a bee and our peculiar fixation on school. This bond grew even more and our time spent in advanced biology. The following semester, a handshake was created and memories were made. But our most favorite one was created at Busch Gardens for my birthday. I learned three things about Jusha on this trip that are very important to the story. One, she eats strange food. Basically, only garlic bread and rice with shetta cheese. Two, she listens to a lot of Justin Bieber. Three, she was my other half. Through Sophia, I discovered my love
034for roller coasters and that she has a very high-pitched scream which echoed in my ear far too frequently. Sophomore year followed the path of freshman year. Sophia and I were becoming even closer. We sat next to each other on the bus to Quizwell, studied during AP Euro with Miss Connor, and laughed during Dodson's classes. However, our halves were almost split junior year. Due to Mr. Crestle, our assistant principal at the time, I was convinced to join the wonderful IB program. Trisha, however, was at a crossroads, IB or gov school. In the end, she chose the path of IB. This decision, one I'm particularly glad she made, cemented our friendship. Junior year, we entered the world of IB and met our IB family. Adrien, Darien, Elelliana, Federico, Franchesco, Jonathan, Michelle, Ricky, and Yasmin. For two years,
035our days have looked the same. We began the day attempting to speak Spanish with emphasis on attempting. Just ask Ricky how I say sunset. We then proceed to IB Biology with the one and only Mr. Carter. Carter's class was most definitely chaotic. We learned about Carter's preferences with cake, cells, Jonathan's deafening, eardrum bursting, hyena-like laugh, anatomy, what happens to a mess when it hits the floor, Toucha, and so much more. On a serious note, we'd like to thank Mr. Carter for all he has done for us. Thank you for editing our papers, taking some adventures, being surprisingly extremely intelligent, providing advice, listening to our rants and my singing, answering Jerusa's ridiculous questions, and for being an excellent teacher and coach. We will miss you and your segue greatly. Our day then continues to history. While
036John, Elelliana, Michelle, Yasmin, and I go to the bathroom, Smith begins his daily debate with Federico and Adrien. Mr. Smith, Darush, and I would like to thank you for always being there for us. Thank you for always checking in on how we were doing and always knowing where we were upset. You were an excellent age coach, but an even better teacher. We will miss being in TU with you, where we learned to not exacerbate the situation. Mr. Smith, I hope you do not still think we are apathetic, lethargic abominations. We will miss you. Our next class takes us to English with the wonderful Miss Luring. To Miss Luring, thank you for being our IB mom. Your smile and unending energy are infectious and brightened all of our days. Except when you gave us a test
037and we didn't know it was coming. Thank you for being the most caring, genuine, and happy teacher. We will never forget you bringing the teachers to Darien's house to crash our Christmas party. It was unforgettable, just like our time with you. To Miss Connor, thank you for being one of the most entertaining teachers that we have had. While IBM math brings stress to quite a few, I can personally say that I've thoroughly enjoyed every second of it. I will miss your sarcasm and your wonderful comparison of Jerusa's singing to a dying cat. Jerus and I were lucky enough to have Miss Connor for AP calculus as well. Thank you for all you've done for us. We will miss you. Our senior year fourth block, Sophia and I had study hall. But junior year, we took
038IB chemistry with the lovely Miss Saunders. This allowed Sophia, this class allowed Sophia and me to become the tight-knit duo we are today. Through tritrations, our spring break IB experiment and laughing and vlogging during class, we truly became inseparable. Miss Anders, thank you for letting me steal your food every day. Um, thank you for always having uh thank you for what you have all that you have done for us. We will miss you. On the extracurricular side, I have been a part of the cross country and track team these past four years. I would like to thank Mr. Bryant for being an excellent coach. Your unwavering determination to make the team better is astounding. I will miss you, the team, and your dad joke so much. I know she's not here, but to my SEA
039sponsor, Miss Kennet, I would like to thank you for always being 100% honest and making light of every situation. You are always fun to be around, and I'll miss hearing your crazy stories. I'll never forget running around the hotel at Betacon with everyone trying to figure out which student had toilet papered one of our rooms only to find out that you were the toilet paper thief after all. Thank you for Thank you for allowing me to be president of SCA alongside of you. It's been an honor. To my beta sponsor, Miss Murphy, thank you for letting me share beta with you. While I never had your class as I can't do art very well, I am so glad that I've gotten to know you this year. Getting to be your first beta president has been
040such an honor. I'm going to greatly miss you and all your sarcastic comments, especially the ones directed against Mr. Carter. While IB and our extracurriculars brought us lifelong memories, they cannot hold a candle to the bond you have with your other half. Sharing your feelings and your deepest thoughts with someone else isn't always easy. It definitely wasn't for me. Before my friendship with Sophia, I would always bottle up my thoughts and emotions. Now I can only cry in front of her, but for her as well. What Jerusia means by that is what Mr. Carter identified as sympathy crying. For some odd reason, if I get upset or nervous, Trisha feels the same way. Watch out, the blood drive will make us both cry. With tour oral exams, seven IAS, one 4,000word essay, and college applications,
041it is not hard to see how one could feel so bummed and bogged down by work. Strangely enough, I did not feel this way. My reasoning for this is Jerusa. Every day I would come to school and her weird jokes, impromptu singing, and shouting at Franchesco would make the work seem less daunting. Graduates, in a time like this where everything in your world is changing, I recommend you find your other half to make the world, at least for a moment, seem a little better. Furthermore, graduates, we ask you all to appreciate your actual other halves, the people who raised us. With that being said, I'd like to thank my beautiful, incredible mother for everything she has done to get me to this moment. Mom, you traveled 13 hours to a place completely foreign to you
042and built a life from scratch. Not just for yourself, but for me, too. You have sacrificed so much, quite literally everything for me. And I know it wasn't easy, but you never let me feel the weight of it. You've shown me what strength and resilience truly looks like. Everything I am today is because of you, and I hope to return the favor favor. Thank you for shaping me into the person I am. I truly couldn't have accomplished what I have without your support. I love you. To my older sister, Aka, thank you for Thank you for putting up with me these past 17 years. I honestly don't think anyone else could have done done it, so I applaud applaud you. I'm sorry. Thank you for always looking after me and for helping me with math
043whenever I was confused. I admire you more than I say. And I know I claimed I didn't want to fall into your footsteps, but here I am today giving the speech just like you did six years ago. Um, to my dad and family, especially my grandpa who couldn't be here today. Thank you for always believing me. And lastly, to my sweet neighbors, Miss Elena, Kristen, Miss Diana, and Eric. You guys are my second family. Thank you for being such a positive influence in my life. I will miss you guys deeply. I love you all. Thank you to my wonderful parents for always being there for me. Dad, thank you for always being by my side. Thank you for dropping everything to raise me and make me the person I am today. Thank you for being
044your weird self and always making me smile. Also, thank you for being my personal college adviser. Mom, thank you for working every day to make my life the way it is. Thank you for your unwaving support and your hysterical jokes that have now become our family motto. Thank you both for making me me and for making my life as wonderful as it is. I could not have done any of this without you all. I love you both so much. I would also like to thank my grandparents, Papa, Grammy, and Nana, for always believing in me, making me laugh, and brightening my day. I love you guys. Class of 2025, this momentous occasion marks a time when our lives will forever change. Life as we know it will never be the same. Our paths are diverging.
045Some of us are heading into the military, college, or the workforce. I, for one, will be attending the engineering school at the University of Virginia as a computer science major. I, on the other hand, will be traveling to Philadelphia. I will be attending the Wharton School of Business of the University of Pennsylvania, a member of the Ivy League. This path I have chosen is one that I did not expect. I was fully anticipating being at UVA roommates with my other half. I had a vision of where my life would go. But on March 27th at 7 p.m., a new path was created. Suddenly, my other half and I were split in two. one in Charlottesville and the other in Philadelphia. While our time spent walking down the hallway linking arms has come to a close,
046our time being friends has most definitely not. Class of 2025, these past four years with you all have been truly amazing. And we could not have done it without our other halves. If we have learned anything during our time at Galileo, it is this. Find your people. Find those who make the little things in life meaningful. Find those who bring you Starbucks when you get denied from your dream school. Find that person who makes you smile when all you want to do is cry. Find your other half. Congratulations, class of 2025. We did [Applause] it. Sorry. Darushia Ella Theodore, we are incredibly proud of you and all that you accomplished during your time at Galileo. It is my honor to present you with the Galileo class of 2025 validictorian medal. Congratulations. I got you right
047there. Sophia Elizabeth Marowitz, we are incredibly proud of you and all that you accomplished here at Galileo. It is my honor to present to you the Galileo class of 2025 saludiatoran medal. Cong congratulations. Will the Galileo Magnet High School senior class please [Applause] stand? Junior marshals, please present the 2025 candidates for graduation. While the candidates line up for the receiving of diplomas, I would like to share just a few accomplishments of the class of 2025. We were second place in the 2024 VHSL one act theater regional festival. 2025 we were the state finalist for VHSL speech competitions in poetry which was senior Reagan Phillips. We were second place team in the 2025 VHSL speech regional and super regional competitions. The DPS fine arts night best in show recipient, first place in drawing category, first place
048in mixed media category, and third place in functional pottery was Nani Morning Star. DPS fine arts night. Third place in mixed media and first place in jewelry was Pia Patel. DPS fine arts night first place in the Willthrown functional pottery is Katherine Mentor. DPS fine arts night second place in digital media was Yasmine Moses. DPS fine arts night first place in pastels is Eric Elmore. We had two members of the 2023 girls state cross country champions, Maya H. Hearnden and Sophia Marowitz. Maya H. Hearnden and Sophia Marowitz were also the two times state championship runnerup in girls cross country. The 2025 state championship runner up for the boys indoor track and field is TK Tony and Daniel Roman. Sophia Marowitz and Maya H. Hearnden are also four times girls cross country team district in region
049champions. Maya H. Ernen also won the state championship in the 2025 indoor track 3200 meter run. Also, Maya H. Hearnden won the track and field girls 4x800 state championship in the 2024 outdoors and the 2025 indoors. They also compete in just a few weeks for outdoor. Daniel Roman is the 2024 boys cross country region runnerup. The three times indoor track region runnerup team is Sophia Marowitz and Maya H. Hearnden. 2025 boys indoor track and field region champions TK Tony, Daniel Roman, Koo Namaju, and Jonathan Tola. In 2022, the region 1B boys were soccer runnerup. The class of 2025 had its first ever tennis teams, and both teams made it to regionals. Yesterday, senior Usman Ali finished second at regionals in a single match as well as second in doubles with his teammate, junior Thomas Hungerland.
050We were also in 2022 the region 1B scholastic bowl champions. In 2022, the VHSL class one Scholastic Bowl state runnerup. 2023, region 1B scholastic bowl champions. 2023, the VHSL class one scholastic bowl state runnerup in 2024. And we were the region 1B Scholastic Bowl champions and 2025 the region 1B Scholastic Bowl runner up. Also in the 2024 2025 school year, we were number 22 in wise financial literacy overall in the nation. In 2025, the Future Business Leaders of America had four state qualifiers and one national qualifier. Darien Saunders. Senior Adam Hawkins played a key role in the first two esports seasons, winning more than 80% of his matches and earning the team award for the 2425 school year. Galileo's new Odyssey of the Mind team qualified for state and world finals, including senior Reagan Phillips.
051We are proud to recognize three members of the class of 2025 who will be answering the call to serve our nation's military following graduation. James Colbert, United States [Applause] Marines. Michelle Wellington, United States Air Force. Lucas Wyatt, United States Marines. Let's give a round of applause for these three individuals headed to serve our nation's military. Galileo in 2023 2024 was named a national beta school of merit and in 2022 we were the recipient of the VHSL National Guard Cup for class one in academic activities. We were also in 2024 named the best high school in the US News and World Report and Galileo received the 2024 2025 highest achievement exemplar award from the Virginia Board of Education. Let's take a moment to applaud all of the tremendous accomplishments, both athletics and academics, for the class
052of 2025. [Applause] Usuzman Ali, Zachary Adonis, Blanco Essence Nan Brandon, Camille Naia Brock [Applause] Louise Manuel Busio, Keen Nasier Carter [Applause] [Music] James Addison Colbert, [Applause] Jaylen Amore Davis, [Applause] [Music] Bryce Allen [Applause] Dawson, Kadiran, Amatarusak Densen, [Applause] Manari Beatatric Deesor, [Applause] Amari Chanel, Elliot [Applause] Eric Allen [Applause] Elmore, Leonardo Rayul Salatiera [Applause] [Music] Feder Rico Alexander [Applause] Zilliani Macy Jolen Greer, Adrien Suzanne [Applause] Hail, Adam Joshua Hawkins, Yasmin Khaled Himnden, [Applause] Matteline Kelly Lee H. Hearnden [Applause] Maya Suzanne H. [Applause] Hearnden, Natarius Latril, Howard Ricardinhoetta [Applause] Rodriguez, Jaori Leavon, John's [Applause] Naim Raml Jones, [Applause] Ethan Michael Jordan, Cameron Michelle Amma Casa [Applause] Ali [Applause] Mammu, Sophia Elizabeth Sharon Marowitz, [Applause] Seavon Isaiah [Applause] Marshall ISIS Unique Mason Aver [Applause] Casey Delenzo Massie, [Applause] Yasm mean Namara Moss [Applause] Mariana Marie [Applause] Milner, Katherine
053Sage, Mentor [Applause] Michael Alexander [Applause] Mitchell. Noani Kahana, Morning Star. [Applause] Logan Aaron Nicholls, [Applause] Chima Wan, Orela [Applause] Nadia K. Orlowski, [Applause] Francesco Balabby Pachello. Diamond Kennedy Chantel Paige, [Applause] Pia Pinan, Patel [Applause] Reagan McKenzie Phillips, [Applause] Sophie Grace Pinekinstein, [Applause] Zane Ayana Pritchette. [Applause] [Music] Ha Kazim, [Applause] Daniel Roman [Applause] Amarello, Alan Emano Salazar, [Applause] LSE Meli [Applause] Salazar, Darien Brandon Saunders, [Applause] Umar Shahid, [Applause] Elelliana Josephine Schultz, [Applause] Annayiah Marshall [Applause] [Music] Smith Jerusia Ella Theodore Four, [Music] [Applause] Natavius, Keshan, Tony, [Applause] Le Paris, Kashan Towns, [Applause] Jonathan Carter, Tula, [Applause] Michaela, Renee [Applause] Turner. Congratulations. Koo, Emmanuel, Um IU. [Music] [Applause] James Edward Vogle, [Applause] Mariah Deoise Wharton. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Michelle Marie Wellington, [Applause] Addison Marie Witcher, [Applause] Lucas Mason Owen Wyatt. Candidates, please stand. [Music] [Applause] You have successfully
054completed an approved program of study as set forth by the Virginia Board of Education and implemented through the Danville public school system. Therefore, it is with great pleasure that I now pronounce you graduates. Please turn your tassels. Congratulations to the Galileo Magna High School class of 2025. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] Heat. Heat. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Heat. Heat. [Applause] Heat. Heat. [Applause] [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Applause] [Music]