Clarkston High School Senior Awards Ceremony

001All right, we'll see. So, newer pretty all construction around it, but you can see the get this all self checkout. Is it like Amazon? You know how the Amazon stores have? It's just it's not it's just normal. It's like very small though. So if you're if you buy like the whole place I'm sitting right now. Never back down. Yeah, I'm right there. That's our That's our school club. That's our school club. Never back down. No. Here's the worst part. I know. So, I'm going to go there. be like award this random person's name, right? Hey, we also have to like announce the person that's speaking out. So, we don't know their name. I mean, I'm watching games. I know. I feel bad if I don't study the list, right? for last. We kind of get

002a good Yeah, you do get to hear everything. What is this? Good job. I feel like that's going Oh my god. No. This is so light. Hey, Grandma. Ladies and gentlemen, we'll ask that you find your seats, silence your electronic devices, and we'll give it a couple more minutes while uh people are still metriculating in here. That's why Ladies and gentlemen, I'd like to welcome you tonight to the senior awards and recognition ceremony for the class of 2025. And I'd like to start off the evening by asking uh or inviting you to stand if you can and direct your attention to the flag as we always begin with the pledge of allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under

003God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. A little bit of housekeeping while we start here and get settled. Uh there will be a reception in the cafeteria um put on by our PTO immediately following the ceremony. We'd like to ask that you uh stand around and be communal with each other. Um, great time to take some pictures. Um, welcome tonight everybody. Welcome to the parents. Welcome to the relatives. Welcome to family and friends who can be here with us tonight. And I know we're all thinking of those who unfortunately can't be here. Um, tonight is a big night for us at the high school. This kind of kicks off the beginning of our senior celebrations. Um, it's a wonderful night to celebrate the accomplishments of the seniors we have here, but it's also a

004time and I was talking to these guys this morning as we were having uh what there's about 66% of them I think that made it into the rehearsal this morning. That's actually a pretty good number. Um, and we I said that events like this uh are are about 50% for them and 50% for the people that got them here. those of you that actually I said 9% for you this morning and 91% but I just wanted to emphasize that um about 5050 and 50% for the individuals like yourselves and your family members and community members um people from your church people who you have worked for that have got the students to where they're at today. Um how how many first timers do we have for a senior awards nights by a show of hands?

005parents. How many How many first timers? Okay. How many seasoned veterans do we have? How many have been here a couple of times? Yeah, me too. Um I do have to say uh my daughter was here during COVID and hers was on like a continuously running loop. So Kayla, this night's for you as well. You get a little taste. Um this is a great time. And time is a funny thing. I think if we were to ask anybody who's sitting in the middle right here, the members of our student body, they would say that the last 13 years have gone by so incredibly slow. They've they've waited for this time. Um when they hit their senior year at homecoming, about a third of our kids are kind of done with school. Christmas, about a third

006of our kids are kind of done with school. spring break. The final third are kind of done with school. Um, but something that I do appreciate about these guys is because they're here tonight and the accomplishments that they've had, uh, they're not done with school. We preach to them to finish strong and you guys have all taken advantage of that and finish strong. Now, time being funny, for anybody who's over 19ish years old, 18 years old in this room, the last 13 years of school, I imagine has gone by in the blink of an eye. You guys are sitting here this evening thinking, where did the time go? Right? Um, for those of you who are feeling that, I myself, Dr. Ryan has a graduate too this year. uh these last few weeks really embrace

007them particularly if this is the first time you've gone through something like this before. So congratulations to you guys and at this time I would like to ask uh the students to stand turn to the crowd and give all these people here who are here to support you a big round of applause. Okay. Thank you. Um, class of 2025. Typically, I say this several times to every graduating class. You've been one of the best classes we've ever had. I I I think though I can say that and be truthful. Um, class of 2025 has represented themsself wonderfully academically on our playing fields, uh, through clubs and activities, through any kind of competitions they've done academic, athletic, performing arts. Um, and one of the reasons we've been so successful as a class or they have are

008the people who sitting here before you tonight. Uh not only are they good academically, they possess all the qualities that make them good. They possess grit. They possess um uh uh fortitude. They possess the work ethic that makes them successful. Parents, I would like you to take a minute. You don't have to stand. And give these guys a round of applause. Now, we've got a lot of the applause out of the way. We'd ask when the kids come across the stage, you kind of hold your applause because we will be reading names as somebody is walking across the stage. I'd like to do some introductions. I'd like to introduce the members of our board of education. The board is incredibly supportive and uh a direct result of a lot of our success comes from the

009decisions they make. So we have President Greg Ne, Vice President Stephanie Crane, Treasurer Elizabeth Egan, Secretary Cheryl McGinness, Trustee Amanda Love, Trustee Steve Hyer, Trustee Mike Clark. Round of applause for our board of education. like to introduce uh our administrators who will be helping us out here this evening from the high school. Assistant principal Josh Lameé, Dean of Students, Kelly Sinison, and probably one of the single greatest human beings I know. And I don't say that because he's my boss. I say it because he's a great guy. Dr. Sean Ryan, superintendent. Uh we have many honored guests with us here this evening. We've got uh members of our Clarkston community schools represented who will be providing some scholarships for our students. We've got members of our civic and religious communities within the district who will

010be providing some support and scholarships to our students this year. and we've got some members of our local businesses. Um, one great thing about Clarkston is all the support our school system gets from the community entities that we work with. So, a round of applause for these people. Thank you guys. Okay, without any further ado, we're going to get to what we came here for, the recognition of the senior scholars of the class of 2025. [Applause] A gentle reminder, you probably want to hold your applause. There are 160 names about to be read, so that would be a lot of clapping. Luke Agar. Luke plans on attending the University of Miami in Florida and studying musical theater. His honors include National Honors Society Vice President of Senior Records, Advanced Studies, and the Drama Club Treasurer.

011Lyanna Alani. She's undecided what she'll uh where she'll attend college next fall. She plans on studying neuroscience. Her honors include advanced studies, president of the creative writing and poetry club, and and she has received an academic scholarship. Skyler Alvarez plans on attending Judson University and studying architecture. Her honors include the National Honors Society, the Japanese National Honors Society, Fashion Club President, and the Interact Club Secretary. Ben Ankram. Ben plans on attending the Michigan Technological University and studying engineering. His honors include the National Honors Society and the Senior Executive Board. Jack Baldderas. Jack plans on attending Wayne State University and studying chemistry. His honors include the National Honors Society, the Japanese National Honors Society, and Jack has received an academic scholarship. Lily Bankot. Lily plans on attending Northern Michigan University studying graphic design. She's received an

012academic scholarship. Julie Banks. Julie plans on attending the University of Cincinnati and studying aerospace engineering. Her honors include the National Honors Society and she has received academic scholarships. Evan Banes. Evan plans on attending Michigan State University and studying accounting. His honors include the National Honors Society, Senior Executive Board, and Advanced Studies. Brady Beck. Brady plans on attending Michigan Technological University and studying nursing. Brady received an athletic and academic scholarship. Brendan Bell. Brendan plans on attending Ketaring University and studying mechanical engineering. Honors include the National Honors Society and Advanced Studies. Brendan received an academic scholarship. Christopher Benjamin. Christopher plans on attending the College for Creative Studies and studying entertainment arts, game design. Christopher has received an academic scholarship. Finn Bard. Finn plans on attending Harvard and studying mechanical engineering. Finn's honors include advanced studies, team captain

013of team Rush, president of the National Technical Honors Society, the Japanese National Honors Society, Club President Engineering Club, Club President Plant Club, Club President Drone Club. Nicholas Borrosa. Nicholas is undecided where he he'll attend in the fall, but he plans to study computer science. His honors include the National Technical Honors Society and Advanced Studies. Nicholas has received an academic scholarship. Michael Branchaw. Michael plans on attending Oakland Community College in the early college program and studying business. His honors include advanced studies. Sheay Braden. She plans on attending Michigan State University and studying psychology. Her honors include advanced studies. Maxim Brown. Maxim plans on attending the University of Michigan and studying electrical engineering. His honors include advanced studies, the national te, excuse me, national honors society, and the national technical honors society. Hannah Bodzinski. Hannah plans on

014attending the University of Washington and studying nutrition and food systems. Her honors include advanced studies and the drama club president. Leah Beckma. Leah plans on attending Mcome Community College and studying graphic and communications design. Her honors include National Honors Society. Lauren Butcher. Lauren plans on attending Hope College and studying secondary math education. Her honors include the National Honors Society, Vice President of Service, Orchestra Council, Head Librarian, and Advanced Studies. Lucas Kaine. Lucas plans on attending Oakland University and studying premed. His honors include the National Honors Society. Nathan Kairens. Nathan plans on attending Ketarine University and studying mechatronics. Scholarships received include the Clarkston United Methodist Church Scholarship. Grace Campal Grace plans on attending Western Michigan University and studying psychology. Her honors include advanced studies and she received an academic scholarship. Landon Chamberlain. Landon plans on attending

015Mcome Community College and studying physical therapy. Isabelle Chapman. Isabelle plans on attending Michigan State University and studying marketing. Khloe Christensen. Khloe plans on attending Michigan State University and studying business. Her honors include the National Honors Society. Grayson Clark. Grayson plans on attending Lawrence Tech University and studying computer science. Grayson received an athletic scholarship. Grayson Clifford. Grayson plans on attending Elma College and studying cellular biology and biochemistry. His honors include the National Honors Society. Brady Cody. Brady plans on attending Oakland Community College and studying gened studies with plans to transfer to U of M for business. Diego Cordoba Ortega. Diego plans on attending Ketaring University and studying mechanical engineering. His honors include the National Technical Honors Society. Luke Darnell. Luke plans on attending Hope College and studying business. Scholarships received include the Presidential Scholarship and Road

016to Hope Award. Grace Davis. Grace plans on attending Michigan State University and is undecided in what she will study. Her honors include the National Honors Society. Carly Davis. Carly plans on attending Michigan State University and studying human biology. Her honors include the National Honors Society and the Senior Executive Board. Claire Dean. Claire plans on attending Wellsley College and studying biology. Her honors include the National Honors Society and Advanced Studies. Navino Delassi. Nino plans on attending Grand Valley State University and studying computer science. His honors include advanced studies. Samuel Donic. Samuel plans on attending the University of Michigan and studying computer engineering. His honors include the National Honors Society and Advanced Studies. Ashley Dominguez Korea. Ashley plans on attending the University of Michigan and studying neuroscience. Her honors include the National Honors Society and Advanced Studies.

017Ashley has received an academic scholarship. Madison Drake. Madison plans on attending the University of Michigan and studying biomolecular science premed. Her honors include the National Honors Society President, Advanced Studies, Senior Executive Board, and Book Club President. Madison has received the University of Regent's merit scholarship. Helina Duke. Helina plans on attending Michigan State University and studying human biology. Her honors include the National Honor Society, president of the Future Medical Professional Club, and the Orchestra Council co-president. Connor Drain. Connor plans on attending Ketaring University and studying chemical engineering. Connor has received an academic scholarship. Joshua Ellingsworth. Joshua plans on attending the University of Kentucky and studying mechanical engineering. His honors include the National Honors Society. Abigail Finery. Abigail plans on attending the University of Notre Dame and studying business analytics and economics. Her honors include advanced studies,

018the business professionals of America club president, psychology club vice president, and she's representing Clarkson High School for this year's WXYZ brightest and best. Lauren Fishaller. Lauren plans on attending Michigan State University and studying accounting. Her honors include the National Honors Society and Advanced Studies. Leah Fitz Simmons. Leah plans on attending Bowling Green State University and studying speech pathology. Her schol she received an academ academic scholarship. Reese Flannry Ree plans on attending Oakland Community College and is undecided on what she'll study. Her honors include advanced studies. Nate Flaviani. Nate plans on attending Michigan Technological University and studying mechanical engineering. Nate's honors include the National Honor Society and advanced studies. Nate has also received an academic scholarship. Cody Fleming. Cody plans on attending Ketaring University and studying engineering. Cody's honors include the NA the National Honors Society

019and Advanced Studies. Cody has received an academic scholarship. Jackson Fletcher. Jackson plans on attending Michigan Technological University and studying mechanical engineering. His honors include the National Honors Society. Jackson has received the Presidential Scholars Award. Logan Fuller. Logan plans on attending Michigan State University and studying education or kinesiology. Logan's honors include the National Honors Society. Claire Gotch. Claire plans on attending Oakland University and studying biochemistry. She has received an academic scholarship. Keith Garrison. Keith plans on attending Sienna Heights University and studying musical theater. His honors include the drama club, community building and outreach officer, the National Honor Society, and Advanced Studies. Noah Jritis. Noah plans on attending the University of Michigan and studying computer science. His honors include advanced studies. Devon Gearing. Devon plans on attending Michigan Technological University and studying information technology. His honors include

020the National Technical Honor Society, the Japanese National Honor Society, Advanced Studies, and Drama Club, Thespian Point Secretary and Webmaster. Leah Ge. Leah plans on attending Cleveland State University and studying finance. Her honors include the National Honors Society. Sawyer Gentily. Sawyer plans on attending the University of Michigan and studying biomedical engineering. His honors include Team Rush Robotics Captain, Super Smash Brothers Club, president, the National Honors Society, and Advanced Studies. Jonathan George. Jonathan plans on attending trade school and and studying electrical. His honors include the National Technical Honors Society. Allison Gilbert. Allison plans on attending the University of Michigan and studying international relations pre-law. Her honors include Secretary of Orchestra Council, the National Honors Society, and Advanced Studies. Laya Gonzalez. Laya plans on attending Michigan State the Broad College of Business. She plans to study business and

021political science. And her honors include president of the Peace Club, president of Kids Care Club, vice president of the feminist club, the National Honors Society, and Advanced Studies. Allison Goodrich. Allison plans on attending the University of Michigan and studying mathematics. Her honors include the National Honor Society, Advanced Studies, and Orchestra Council Chamber President. She has received the Optimist of Grand Blank scholarship. Graham Goodrich. Graham plans on attending Central Michigan University and studying biotechnology and music performance. His honors include the National Honors Society, Advanced Studies, and Drama Club Secretary. Anukica Griffin. Anukica plans to attend the University of Tennessee and study neuroscience. Her honors include the National Honors Society and Advanced Studies. She's received an academic scholarship. Gabrielle Graci plans on attend Gabby plans on attending, excuse me, uh, Michigan State University and studying marketing. Her

022honors include the National Honors Society, Ben Guzal. Ben plans on attending the University of Michigan and studying mechanical engineering. His honors include the National Honors Society, Advanced Studies, and the Senior Executive Board. Ben has received the Clarkston United Methodist Church Scholarship. This is Riley Harris. Sure one couldn't be with us tonight. Andy couldn't be with us tonight either. Two in a row. Riley Harris. Riley plans on attending Hillsdale College and studying premed. Her honors include the National Honors Society and Advanced Studies. She has received an academic and athletic scholarship. Matthew Hayward. Matthew plans on attending Oakland University and studying pre-law and political science. His honors include the president of the French club. Colton Hedstrom. Colton plans on attending the University of Michigan and studying business administration. His honors include advanced studies, national honors society, and

023the senior executive board. Colton has received the Clarkston United Methodist Church Scholarship. Audrey Heinrich. Audrey plans on attending Michigan State University and studying economics. Her honors include advanced studies and the vice president of the French club. Ava Hinkle. Ava plans on attending Case Western University and studying biochemistry with a minor in German. Her honors include the National Honors Society, the National German Honors Society, and Advanced Studies. Isabelle Henry. Isabelle plans on attending Youngtown Youngstown State University and studying biology. Her honors include the National Honors Society and Advanced Studies. Amelia Heepler. Amelia plans on attending Wayne State University and studying theater. Her honors include the drama club community outreach officer and she has received the Wayne State University Scholars Award Scholarship. Grace Herren. Grace plans on attending the University of Michigan and studying engineering. Her honors

024include advanced studies. Gabrielle How Gabrielle plans on attending Indiana Institute of Technology. That is not correct. There it is right there. Sorry about that. So, Gabriel couldn't be here tonight. You could advance that. There we go. Riley Hunt. Riley plans on attending Grand Valley State University and studying nursing. Her honors include the National Honors Society. Caitlyn Jacubc. Caitlyn plans on attending the University of Michigan and studying psychology and architecture. Her honors include the National Honors Society and Advanced Studies. Ava Johnson. Ava plans on attending Elma College and studying business. Her honors include the Junior Optimist Club Vice President, the National Honors Society, and the National German Honors Society. Stephanie Johnson. Stephanie plans on attending Michigan State University and studying engineering. Her honors include the National Honors Society and the Senior Executive Board. Sydney Kaufman. Sydney

025plans on attending Oakland Community College with plans to transfer to Kelvin University. She'd like to study marketing or secondary education and her honors include the National Honors Society. John Call. John plans on attending Kalamazoo College and studying mechanical engineering and business. His honors include the National Honors Society and John is a recipient of the Dan Fe scholarship. Give us just a moment while we transition here. Miss Sizen is going to take over for me. Mila Keller plans to attend Michigan State University to study psychology. Katherine Ketzler plans to attend Michigan State University to study criminal justice and French. Samuel King plans to attend the United States Air Force Academy to study aerospace engineering in German. Honors include National Honor Society, Advanced Studies, National German Honor Society, and German Club President Natalie Corki plans to attend

026Oakland University to study English for secondary education. Honors include Japanese National Honors Society and she has received an academic scholarship. And Madison Krauss could not be here with us tonight. Ella Cmaniac plans to attend Central Michigan University to study business and psychology. Honors include National Honor Society, personal manager of the Chamber Orchestra Council, and she has received a maroon and gold merit scholarship. Jason Le plans to attend Michigan Technological University to study mechanical engineering. Honors include National Honor Society and he's received a leading scholar award. Paul Lemieux plans to attend Fris State University to study construction management. Olivia Lewis plans to attend Michigan State University to study business law. Honors include National Honor Society, National Technical Honors Society, and President of the Optimist and Interact Club. Parker Lewis plans to attend Michigan State University to

027study health sciences. That's all that was on there. Right. Ava Lantine plans to attend the University of Michigan to study biomedical science. Honors include National Honors Society, Advanced Studies, and Senior Executive Board. Christian Lunsford plans to attend Oakland University to study computer science and he's received an academic scholarship. Erica Luther plans to attend Indiana University to study animal behavior. Honors include National Honor Society, Advanced Studies, Senior Executive Board, Spanish Club President, Vice President of Membership for Tutoring Club. Sarah Mansour plans to attend the University of Detroit Mercy to study nursing. Honors include National Technical Honor Society and she's received an academic scholarship. McKenzie McDaniel plans to attend Oakland Community Early College Program and with plans to transfer to Michigan State University to study animal studies. Honors include National Technical Honor Society. Sarah McKe plans to

028attend Michigan State University to study criminal justice. Noah Mclean plans to attend Liberty University to study acting. Honors include National Honor Society and he's received a Liberty University Champion and Academic Award. Lily Miles plans to attend Grand Valley University to study respiratory care. Honors include advanced studies. Nicholas Miller plans to attend Michigan State University to study finance and accounting. Honors include National Honor Society and Advanced Studies. Finn Mooney plans to attend Michigan State University to study kinesiology. Honors include National Honor Society and is he's received an Eastern Michigan Hockey Association scholarship. Audrey Morgan plans to attend University of Michigan to study neuroscience. Honors include National Honor Society, Advanced Studies, President and founder of the Genes and Disease and Symptoms Club, and the Senior Executive Board. Kaden Marorrow plans to attend Oakland University to study mechanical

029engineering. Honors include National Honor Society, Advanced Studies, and he's received an academic scholarship. Addison Newman plans to attend Wayne State University to study biochemistry and chemical biology with a premed track. Honors include National Honor Society in Advanced Studies. She's also received the Wayne State Honors College Scholarship. Addison Newlat plans to attend Fordham University to study journalism. Honors include senior executive board. Daniel Nuian plans to attend the University of Michigan to study in biomed science. Honors include National Honor Society, Japanese National Honor Society, Advanced Studies, Senior Executive Board, and Project Manager for Tutor Connection. Tyler Nehemiah could not be here tonight. Jeremy Nord plans to attend Michigan State University to study finance and accounting. Honors include advanced studies. Rose Norman plans to attend Eastern Michigan University to study elementary education. Honors include National Honor Society. She's

030also received an academic scholarship. Marco Daniel plans to attend Ketering University to study computer science. Honors include National Honor Society in Advanced Studies. Alex Austerman also could not be here tonight. Aiden Pigel plans to attend Michigan State University to study business. Honors include National Honor Society. Charlotte Parchenko plans to attend the University of Michigan to study in the Rossk School of Business. Honors include National Honor Society, Advanced Studies, and Senior Executive Board. Asia Patel plans to attend Michigan State University to study biology. Honors include National Honor Society and Senior Executive Board. Mahi Patel plans to attend the University of Michigan to study bio um psychology, cognition, and neuroscience. Honors include advanced studies. William Pollson plans to attend Michigan State University to study computer science. Honors include National Honors Society and the National Technical Honor Society.

031And Hayden Paxton is also not here tonight. Avery Phillips plans to attend the University of Wisconsin to study predental, including neuroscience and cognition. Honors include National Honor Society in advanced studies. Hannah Powers plans to attend the University of Michigan to study nursing. Honors include the National Honor Society, Advanced Studies, Vice President of the Gita's Club, Spanish Club Vice President, FEM feminist club vice president, and she's received an academic scholarship. Anthony Preventure plans to attend the University of Michigan to study biochemistry. Honors include National Honor Society, Japanese National Honor Society, Advanced Studies, and National Art Honor Society. Gavin Raph plans to attend the University of Michigan to study aerospace engineering. Honors include National Honor Society, Point Secretary in Advanced Studies. Brooke Ratliff plans to attend Michigan State University to study neuroscience. Ella Reid plans to attend

032Hiron University to study economics. Honors include advanced studies and National Honor Society. Avery Ritter plans to attend Michigan State University Lyman Briggs College to study biology. Honors include National Honor Society. Ginger Robinson plans to attend the University of Michigan to study neuroscience. Honors include advanced studies and president of the psychology club. Quinn Rosenberg plans to attend the Milwaukee School of Engineering to study civil engineering. Honors include advanced studies and he's also received a Danf scholarship. Aubrey Rucker plans to attend Oliviver Nazarene University. Area of study is music and math and business. She's also received an academic scholarship. Evan Ryan plans to attend Western Michigan University to study product design. Honors include National Honor Society and she's also received an academic scholarship. Evan Seavoy plans to attend Oakland Community College study business. Honors include advanced studies,

033vice president of IT team at OSTC, business professionals of America, vice president of membership. Douglas Shonfeld plans to attend the University of Kentucky to study mechanical engineering. Honors include National Honor Society and Advanced Studies. Abigail Schultz plans to attend Michigan Technological University to study medical laboratory science. Honors include National Honor Society in Advanced Studies. She's also received this distinguished leading scholar and platinum level presidential scholar. Lily Scott plans to attend Grand Valley State University to study anthropology and premed. Honors include French Club Social Media Director, Orchestra Council PR Director, and Advanced Studies. Hayden Steelely plans to attend New York Institute of Technology to study architecture. Honors include senior executive board and she's received a TK Steel scholarship. Aaron Schues plans to attend Michigan Technological University to study environmental engineering. Honors include advanced studies, Thespian Point

034secretary, and we've received the distinguished leading scholar award and platinum presidential scholarship. Kendall Saradski plans to attend the University of Colorado Boulder to study integrative physiology. Honors include National Honor Society and we've received a scholarship for CU Boulder Chancellor's Achievement Scholarship. Brena Snow plans to attend the University of Michigan Flint to study nursing. Honors include National Honor Society and the National Technical Honor Society. Lillian Stevenson plans to attend Michigan State University to study business. Honors include National Honor Society. Jacqueline Sweda plans to attend the University of Michigan to study predental. Honors include National Honor Society, Advanced Studies, and President of the Tutor Club. Ava Cickle plans to attend Trinity College Dublin to study English. Honors include advanced studies. Alexander Taylor plans to attend the University of Michigan to study biology. Honors include National Honor Society,

035Drama Club Vice President, and Advanced Studies. Athena Tedar plans to attend Clemson University to study engineering. Honors include National Honor Society, senior executive board, and treasurer of the Interact Club. Cameron Thomas plans to attend Montana State University to study accounting. Honors include National Honor Society Senior Executive Board and she's received an academic scholarship. Claire Thomas plans to attend Alma College to study pre-law. Zach Torres is currently undecided in where he will go, but he plans to study psychology. Honors include advanced studies. Michaela Trouy plans to attend the University of Michigan to study English pre-law. Honors include National Honor Society, Advanced Studies, Senior Executive Board, Feminist Club President, and French Club Activity Chair. Jack Tulz plans to attend the University of Michigan to study aerospace. Honors include Advanced Studies, National Honors Society, National Technical Honors Society,

036Junior Optimist Club Secretary, and Senior Executive Board. Braden Wer could not be here this evening. Emily Walker plans to attend Michigan State University to study packaging science. Honors include National Honor Society. George Walker plans to attend Michigan State University to study economics. Coral Widenbach plans to attend the Michigan Technological University to study environmental science and sustainability. Honors include plant club president and she's received a presidential academic scholarship. Sam Wes plans to attend Central Michigan University to study communications. Honors include activities chairperson for French club and he's received an academic scholarship. Dne White plans to attend M Central Michigan University to study instrumental music education. Honors include National Honor Society, Vice President of Communications, and has received a scholarship for the Michigan Competing Band Association. Sophia Winningham plans to attend Michigan State University to study psychology.

037Honors include National Honors Society in Advanced Studies. Evan Woodward plans to attend the University of Michigan to study nuclear engineering. Honors include National Honor Society and Advanced Studies. Cameron Zagorski plans to attend Ketarine University to study computer science. Honors include National Honor Society and he has received an academic scholarship. Ethan Zach plans to attend Michigan Technological University to study mechanical engineering. Honors include advanced studies. Leighton Zerba plans to attend Central Michigan University to study finance. Honors include National Honor Society and Advanced Studies. If you could please give a round of applause to our graduates, boys who haven't applauded in like 20 minutes. Let's give him a round of applause. That's more like it. That's more like it. All right, folks. With this portion of our program, we are going to ask uh the individual seated

038to my right, your left, if you would come up to the blue line, and we are going to recognize the department awards. It's almost as good as we practiced it today. Keep sliding down a little. Keep sliding down a little. Let's get between the ferns. It makes for a better picture. Perfect. All right. Uh the this recognition is kind of near and dear to all of our hearts at Clarkston High School because the students you see before you are chosen by the members of our various um departments. These students have uh just being here tonight obviously have shown uh high aptitude for their grade point average as we're all over a 3.8 sitting here this evening. Um but they have also really dug deep into the content and curriculum of these particular departments and they

039have also uh really added positively to all the classes that they've been in. Uh, some may say they were like a right arm of the teacher that was in that class. So, on behalf of all the academic departments at Clarkston High School, I'd like to recognize these students. Please take one step forward as your name is called. From the art department, Christopher Benjamin. We can clap. We can clap. We'll clap from the career and technical education department. Skyler Kelly. If you take a step out, stay out. Who? There you go. Yeah, stay out. Skyler Kelly. You'll notice Skyler is conspicuously absent because I believe they are at the AC/DC concert. from our international baloria program. Audrey Morgan recognized by our language arts program. We have Michaela Trouy. The math department has recognized Leighton Zerba. Our

040performing arts department band has recognized Dne White. Performing arts orchestra recognizes Helina Duke. Performing arts vocalist Noah Mlan. Science department recognizes Noah Jadridis. Social studies department recognizes Matthew Hayward. And for our world languages, French, Katherine Ketzler, German, Ava Henle, Spanish, Avery Phillips, Japanese, Anthony Proventure, And last, but certainly not least, CSM Tech Lauren Butcher. Round of applause for our department chair members. Ladies and gentlemen, congratulations, guys. You folks may take your seats. At this time, we're going to begin the scholarship portion of our recognition. We'd like to ask that you folks uh feel free to refer to your programs to get some more information on the very kind individuals that have provided scholarships this evening. And I think without any further ado, are we ready to start, guys? All right. Hello. My name is Chris

041Benjamin and tonight we welcome Mrs. Anne Evans who will be presenting four winners of the Clarkson Area Optimist Club scholarships. [Applause] The winner of the Andrea Schroeder Scholarship of the Fine Arts is Amelia Hepler. The winner of the Henry Richardson Friend of Youth Scholarship is Ava Johnson. The winner of making your optimist come true scholarship is Paul Lemieux. And the winner of the James Evans scholarship is Ben Gazal. Um, good evening. It's always such an honor and a privilege to be here tonight. Uh, I look out at this amazing group of graduating seniors and it's just incredible. You have incredible parents and it can't go without saying as um someone who had two sons who went through the district and now I have two grandchildren in the district. It couldn't happen either without the amazing

042educators that you've been exposed to and have worked with you for all these years too. So congratulations to all of you. I am absolutely honored and humbled to be here tonight and recognize uh and award the scholarships to four very deserving seniors. I represent the Clarkson Area Optimus Club and tonight I'm also joined by Michelle Carson. She's gonna give out two of them. We are the scholar part of the scholarship committee that had to make some very very tough decisions. Um we pour over these applications that are just all of them so rich in all the activities and the things that you've participated in. But just to tell you I have to tell you a little bit about the optimist club. Uh we are known as the friend of youth and we're a club of

043about 90 members and we've been in existence almost 40 years now. Uh and we support programs such as uh you'll see us um providing support at the Clarkson Independence Parade, Holiday Lights Parade. We host SA and ortorial contests, the annual winter fest and optifest. We've been responsible for supporting the ice rink in Depot Park and we always pray for cold weather when that happens and also we provide a number of grants to teachers can apply through the schools. So we're very busy in um really we're all volunteers but our goal is just providing support to the youth in the community. Um, our motto is bringing out the best in kids, but there's no doubt in my mind that as I've worked with um, youth like you over the years, you bring out the best in

044us. There's just absolutely no question about that. So, now to our scholarship recipients. U Michelle's going to introduce the first two. Good evening. I've had the sincere privilege of being the optimist advisor or one of the optimist adviserss of the optimist club for the past 15 years and they never cease to amaze me. Um the first one is uh Ava Johnson. She is the recipient of the Henry Richardson friend of youth scholarship. Henry was the second president of the Optimus Club in 1987. His memory in this scholarship was started to honor a senior who has participated in one of our op junior optimist clubs in elementary, middle, or high school. Ava was the vice president of the high school junior optimist club in her junior year and senior year. In addition, she is a member

045of the National Honor Society, the German National Honors Society, and she's also been a player on the varsity field hockey, travel softball, and junior varsity and varsity softball. Ava will be attending Elmouth College and majoring in business and marketing. Congratulations. in this too. Our next recipient is Ben. I can never get your last name right. I'm sorry. Guzzel. He is the recipient of the James A. Evans Scholarship. Jim was the charter president of the club which he which was founded in 1986. In his honor, this scholarship is given to students who exhibit solid leadership skills. Ben has been a member of the class of 2025 executive board was uh executive board and was captain of this year's varsity swim and dive teams. A member of the national honor society and has won numerous awards. In

046addition to his busy schedule, he devotes time at his local church and participated in their leadership institute to develop the his leadership skills. Ben will be ch uh attending U of M majoring in mechanical engineering. And without backbones, this kid really supports all that make us look good. So, thanks a lot, Ben. Um, next I'd like to present to um Amelia Halper the um I'm sorry. Yeah, the Andrea Schroeders uh scholarship. Hold on. Let me find it. Here we go. Um Amelia, come on up. Um so Andrea Schroeder was a past president of the Optivist Club. Many of you might have known her over the years. Uh she very actively supported the fine arts uh here in Clarkson. You'd see her attending uh performances etc. She was an amazing member of our club and a

047former past president as I said and also was our state representative. This scholarship was started in her memory after a courageous bout with cancer and she supported all of the arts here in Clarkson. So, I think she would be so proud that you would be receiving her scholarship. Um, so you've been a member of the drama club and the magical. She's been a a counselor and choreographer for the spring youth musical camp and she'll be attending uh Western um um WSU, sorry, Wayne State University and University and majoring in theater. Is that correct? Okay. Congratulations. [Applause] Um, and finally, Paul, come on up here. Um, Paul Amu is our recipient of making your optimism come true scholarship. I'm really proud of this scholarship. This is the fourth year that we've given this scholarship and we've

048given it to somebody who is really going into the some kind of trades whether it's um we've given it to um young men who have gone to um you know learn how to do uh power lines the electrical and um we felt that it was important that we start to recognize people who want to go into trades whether it's anything from beauty school to construction trades to electrical etc. because um you know just try and find somebody to fix your plumbing or do your electricity, right? So Paul is this amazing young man and um I want to tell you a little bit about him. He's the recipient of the Make Your Optimism Come True Scholarship. It's awarded to any student who will be going into the trades and we want to make sure that uh

049we we honor those who are committed to those vital services. He's been part of the construction technology program at Clarkson High for the last two years. He's volunteered for projects at Springfield Plains, the historic Bailey House, and the Depot Park Ice Rink. Mr. Adam Goring, um, one of your instructors, um, wrote that Paul is a young man of impeccable character. He was also captain of his lacrosse team this year. He plans to attend Fair State in the fall and major in construction management. So, congratulations, Paul. We're so proud of you. Um the last thing I want to add is um they're all you're all going to be invited. You have a letter to our Optimus breakfast at 7:30 in the morning on May 28th. Sorry about the time. I know you're tired of getting up

050early, but um it's all in there. And at that time, you'll receive your check and we're going to honor you with you and your families at that um at that breakfast. So, um, we're so proud of you and thank you so [Applause] much. Good evening. My name is Lauren Butcher. I am happy to introduce Mr. Brian Adams, principal, who will be presenting the 2025 Clarkston Elementary Aaron Cameron Memorial Scholarship. This year's winner is Logan [Applause] Fuller. I'll wait for you. So, as mentioned, I am Brian Adams, principal at Clarkson Elementary School. Um, and I'm here to present the Aaron Cameron Memorial Scholarship. Mrs. Cameron was a longtime administrative assistant at Clarkson Elementary. For well over a decade, Mrs. Cameron was a school mom to countless children. Mrs. Cameron left a lasting legacy at Clarkson Elementary.

051Wow. Her welcoming smile and fun sense of humor helped to establish a culture that will always be part of CE. Erin never passed up an opportunity to advocate for students and she had the gift of making all who knew her feel special and loved. Now, I didn't have a 38 or higher, so I'm going to use a couple of words here. One, salt of the earth and good people. When we put this scholarship together in her name, we were looking to honor people that are good people, salt of the earth. So, it is my honor um to have Logan Fuller be the winner of this year's Clarkson Elementary Aaron Cameron Memorial Scholarship. I've had the pleasure of knowing Logan his entire life because during his early years at Clarkson Elementary, both his parents were teachers

052at the school. And this gave me the opportunity to watch Logan in and out of school. And from a very young age, Logan was mature beyond his years. He demonstrated great leadership qualities and a love for learning. As I mentioned previously, Mrs. Cameron had a gift for making others feel special. Logan has always possessed the same gift. Whether it was helping a classmate or showing respect and appreciation for staff, Logan brightened many lives at CE. After his departure from CE, I've continued to follow Logan's story. Each chapter has filled me with great pride and admiration for a young man that represents his family, his school, and his community with class, confidence, and kindness. Logan, the CE staff is excited to see what your future holds. I know Mrs. Cameron would be really honored to have

053you get this award. Congratulations and good luck at Michigan State. Good evening. My name is Helina Duke. We welcome Mr. Fuller, who is here to present the Independence Elementary Scholarship Awards. The recipients for the 2025 Independence Elementary Scholarship are Leah G and Allison Gilbert. [Applause] Welcome. Good evening. Thank you, Mr. Adams. I feel like I'm going to cry over here over my son being honored. So, thank you for that. Um, on behalf of Independence Elementary, I'm proud to honor Leah and Allison for our Bronco Scholarship Award. Um, I'm also proud to represent all Broncos in the audience here with us. So, I have a few words for each of you. Leah, one attribute that became evident after reading your application is the fact you are involved in so many things and not just the normal

054clubs like National Honor Society or sports, but amazing areas of study like aviation. That's awesome. Our staff would love to fly with you one day, maybe to Australia, etc. Along with being a volunteer for the fire department, Leah, you seem like a young adult that has created so many experiences in your life that many would love to account for. Something that you mentioned that radiates through the words uh that you speak in your application is the hard work you put into everything you do. That's a life skill that you definitely should embrace the rest of your life. And we can see that already. You said that you love to write. Leah, hit those adventures in life and make sure you journal and let IE know all about them along the way. Leah, I is so

055I is so proud to be a part of your story. Your legacy will continue and greatness will be the residuals that you won't even focus on. Allison, on behalf of the staff at Independence Elementary, we are proud to present you this scholarship award. As the selection committee read through your application, it was immediately apparent that you exemplify the quality um that you most possess is resiliency. Ellison, you set goals and you do everything in your capacity to achieve them. Even the willingness to adjust along your journey. The best part after speaking to a few of the staff members about Allison is that the teachers all described her as determined and as a hard worker. So you've continued these characteristics. Another quality that you spoke about was the ability to have empathy. This idea of when

056you were new to the school and how it impacted you immensely on how someone went out of their way to ask you to play with you and how you still carry that quality every day and everyone you meet. Allison II is so proud of to be a part of your story. Your legacy will continue and the greatness of the residuals you will always have. Remember, once a Bronco, always a Bronco. Well done, Bronco Leader. Well [Applause] done. Hello. Hello. My name is Noah Gdritus and I would like to introduce from the Clarkston Foundation for Public Education, Miss Maggie Maxwell, who will be presenting the award for the Marian Emory Scholarship. This year's winner is Mackenzie McDaniel. [Applause] We would like to thank the Clarkston High School for the opportunity to present our annual Marian Emory

057PEO Chapter AW scholarship. PEO was created back in the 1800s by seven college friends who wanted to provide fellowship and financial support for women seeking higher education to fulfill their dreams. PEO now has over 250,000 members across North America. Together we raise money and give back millions of dollars in the forms of scholarships, grants, and lowinterest loans for women in higher education. Marian is seated over here tonight. Give us a wave, Marian. And she has been a member of our PEO organization for 78 years. She joined at age 18 back in 1947. She has provided leadership in both the local and state levels. Marian has lived her entire life here in the Clarkston area and has demonstrated a deep commitment to her community. Through her involvement in PEO and many other organizations, she has provided

058leadership, vision, persistence, and deep human connections. She has earned the love and respect of all who know her. Tonight, the members of PEO Chapter AW are so honored to present our annual $1,500 Marian Emory Scholarship to McKenzie McDaniel. McKenzie demonstrates excellence in leadership, community service, academics, and has a vision for her future. She has an entrepreneurial spirit and she runs her own egg business. Marian's father was a veterinarian and so Marian is very excited that McKenzie is interested in pursuing animal studies when she attends college. Congratulations, McKenzie. Good evening. My name is Matthew Hayward. Today, tonight I would like to introduce Mr. Glenn Galter, principal of Bailey Lake Elementary. This year's recipients of the 2025 Bailey Lake Elementary Scholarship are Ava Henle, Isabelle Henry, Audrey Morgan, and Ginger Robinson. [Applause] Good evening. Um, obviously we're

059not Glengal Terry. Um, he couldn't make it tonight. I'm Lyn Mitchell, um, one of the teachers at Bailey Lake. I'm Stacy Ship, another teacher at Bailey Lake. And on behalf of the Bailey Lake staff and our PTA, we are pleased to present four scholarships to our former Bulldogs. These students were chosen based on an essay describing how they made themselves or our community a better place since leaving fifth grade. The 14 applicants made the diff the decision difficult as all were worthy of winning. We are proud to honor Isabelle Henry, Audrey Morgan, Ginger Robinson, and Ava Henle with the $500 scholarship. Congratulations. Good evening. My name is Ava Henle. It is my pleasure to introduce Miss Joet Kun from the Clarkson Farm and Garden Club. The winners of the Clarkson Farm and Garden Club scholarship

060are Erica Luther, McKenzie McDaniel, and Evan Seavoy. [Applause] Good evening. Congratulations to all the students and their families that are here tonight. I'm a member of the Clarkston Farm and Garden Club, an organization that's been in Clarkston for 77 years. If you travel through Clarkston and you see the planters of flowers downtown, it's the work of the garden club. If you go to the library and see the plantings, it's the work of the garden club. We support beautifification and education with many grants for teachers and scholarships for kids. Um if you purchase a wreath or a roping at holiday time, it goes to or go to the garden walk. Um all that money comes back to students or uh the Clarkston family farm or the community. So it's my pleasure tonight to give three scholarships.

061Um we've been doing this for 57 years and um the students are very special every year. Uh we ask them to talk about the environment uh agriculture and as you know with McKenzie we have a farmer. Uh we with Erica and Evan we have a Eagle Scout and a gold medal girl scout. Uh they have done many things over the years for the environment and for agriculture. So, uh, we're so happy to give them scholarships tonight. [Applause] Hello, my name is Katherine Ketzler. Please welcome Mrs. Stephanie Banks who will be presenting the Pineob Elementary School Scholarship. The winners of the 2025 Pineob Elementary scholarships are Mahi Patel and Kendall Seratsky. [Applause] I'm very honored as a teacher of Pineob Elementary and a parent of several pine three Pineob Elementary alum to present these scholarships to

062our winners today. Our scholarships were chosen based on an essay question in their amongst their application of everything I need to know I learned in kindergarten and what lessons from your time at Pineob do you still carry with you? These two lovely young people expressed what many of the teachers in our district want for all our kids. Empathy, compassion, and drive. The kindergarten teachers that these lovely people had remembered them as being kind, compassion, empathetic, but also having a hunger for knowledge and learning. Um, so I present on behalf of the Clarks or Pineapp Elementary scholarships to Mahi and Kendall. [Applause] Hello, my name is Leighton Zerba. Please welcome to the stage Mr. Joe Coochan who will be presenting many awards for the Clarkson Foundation for Public Education. The Robert A. Olsen Math and Engineering

063Scholarship winner is Sam King. The Chuck Keegan Math and Science Education Scholarships go to Lauren Butcher and Madison Drake. The David Rushki scholarship winner is Luke Agar. And the James Evans scholarship winners are Abigail Finery and Evan Seavoy. Good evening everybody. Thank you for having me. I'm the Joe Kosan, the vice president of the Clarkston Foundation. Um, I'm very proud to be here representing them. Um, as we do support and focus on the students of the Clarkston community, the foundation has awarded hundreds of thousands of dollars in classroom grants and scholarships over the course of many, many years. We continue to support the community as we continue to grow and dedicate our focus on our young mathematicians, writers, scientists, arters, artists, and trades people for yesterday, today, and tomorrow. This year, we had over 60

064applicants that were submitted to win the nine scholarships that I'm about to share. impressive GPA, much much higher than I ever had or dreamed of, community service, leadership, athletic and scholar and scholastic activities. I'm sure with the advances in math, science, and AI, none of you would be terribly surprised that many of the hours that the students focused on their activities actually were more than we have in a week. So, it's pretty impressive. With that, uh, Mr. Cole and I must have gotten common themes and notes today because I I want to make sure that we all know and the students know that their success starts at home with their parents, with their friends and families, their neighborhoods, their schools, and finally the community, the people in the audience. So, while we congratulate and celebrate

065what they've done today, students, make sure you go home and say thank you because you're here because of the people that supported your journey. And with that, I'd like to share this year's scholarship winners for performing arts and visual arts. The David Rensky Award goes to Luke [Applause] Agar for math and engineering. Samuel King, the James A. Evans Scholarship for Leadership and Athletics, Abigail [Applause] Finity. And uh the second uh James A. Evans Award, Evan Seavoy. [Applause] for math, science, and education. Two awards, the Keegan Memorial Scholarships, Lauren Ber and Madison Drake. Thank you. [Applause] Hello again. My name is Katherine Ketszler and to present the Andersonville Elementary Scholarship tonight is Mrs. Wend Wendy Roll. Uh the winners of the 2025 Andersonville Elementary scholarships are Lily Miles, Marco Daniel, and Shay Breeden. Good evening. Yes,

066I'm Winnie Roll. I'm the social emotional interventionist at Andersonville and I have the honor to present the uh awards again this year as uh Mrs. Fletcher is being a parent today for one of her for her child in the audience. Before I announce our first winner, I want to share a brief review of how our building makes possible to provide these scholarships. Our entire school family works together to raise these funds. Our biggest fundraiser making making event is spring raffle basket fundraiser. Each grade lover selects a theme for a basket. We collect donations for the items to be put in the basket and then we sell the raffle tickets for the baskets. Our first scholarship winner is Sheay Breeden. Sheay is a beautiful young lady inside and out. She's very involved at CHS and has

067worked hard during her entire high school career. Shay, our staff loved reading your essay and wanted I wanted to share one part that especially moved me when asked what she learned at Andersonville that she still uses today. She wrote the golden rule. Treat others the way you want to be treated despite disagreements. I've always kept this in the back of my mind in order to practice kindness and be apathetic and understand individual. Shay, on behalf of the entire Andersonville staff, we are so proud of you and we wish you the very [Applause] best. Our second wonderful um Andersonville Elementary scholarship winner. As a part of the application process, students must complete an essay that thoughtfully addresses a few questions, including, "What did you learn from your time at Andersonville that you still use today?" and

068"What are your future goals and why?" We also ask our applicants to submit their transcripts and acceptance letters to a college, community school, or trade school. Our staff reviews these essays. Our second scholarship winner is Lily Miles. Lily is driven and works hard as evident by her rigorous class schedule and amazing academics performance. Lily also inspired our staff with her essay. A particular part that moved me was all of the staff members taught me the importance of kindness which I employ today. Prior prioritizing kindness allowed me to gain valuable relationships that kept me become a better person. At AE I also learned to respect everyone. On the behalf of Andersonville Elementary staff, Lily, we are very proud to uh wish you the very best and congratulations. And finally, we are honored to award Mark O'Daniel

069with a Andersonville scholarship. We are so proud of Mark and all the accomplishments. He is committed to academics and we know he's going to do amazing things in the future. In his essay, Mark mentioned the difference in a special teacher made in his time at Andersonville. When referring to this teacher, he said, "She was always kind and supportive. I appreciate how understanding she was to us as young kids. She was patient with me even when I was struggling." Mark, we want you to know that we appreciate you so much and are so excited that you have been engaged in team Rush and in some other clubs at the high school. Mark, on the behalf of the entire staff at Andersonville, we want you to know that we are so proud of you and can't wait

070to see what the future holds. Congratulations. Hello, my name is Dane White and I am here to welcome Mr. Tom Hall who will be presenting from the Clarkston Foundation, the James Phall recip recipient is Andy Hakala. Unfortunately, Andy couldn't be here tonight, but I'm sure we'll hear some wonderful things about him in his absence. Well, he's not here, so I guess I can say whatever I want, right? I get the microphone this way. Hello. Uh my name is Tom Hall. Um I'm also a product of uh Clarkson schools, uh Bailey Lake Elementary, Sasha Junior High, and Clarkson High School, class of 1984. I'd like to congratulate all the graduates in attendance here tonight and wish you well as you start your future in your adult life. I can recall when I graduated having some trepidation

071in my head as I was moving out to the big world wondering whether coming from what was then a small town if I was prepared to compete in the big world. I can say with great pride that Clarkson schools had me well prepared to perform with students from all walks of life and from all around the world. I'm sure you are too. Our family always had great pride in Clarkston and the impact that the schools and the community had on all of us and felt it was important to offer some support to those that continue to make this community what it is. Tonight, I get the honor and pleasure to present the James P. Hall scholarship for business investment and entrepreneurship formed in honor of my brother Jim also a lifelong Clarkson resident and graduate

072of the class of 1987. Jim went on from Clarkston to Brown University in Rhode Island to earn his bachelor's degree in business administration and financial management. He also played football earning freshman of the year as a receiver and ran on the track team. Jim had great passion in business and finance, returning to Clarkston to build a successful career in investment and financial management until his untimely passing several years ago. It's in his honor and of his spirit that I'm proud to announce once again the recipient of the 2025 James P. Hall scholarship business for business and entrepreneurship to Anderson Hacka who obviously isn't here tonight. Uh, but I did want to point out a couple of things. This is our first time giving this scholarship and I was impressed with all of the applicants. There

073were probably about a dozen. And as I was thinking about the subject matter and we ask about things like, you know, how is business and finance and investment and entrepreneurship important to you? One of the things that struck out to me is one of those core economic principles that we all know as adults of is inflation. And I was surprised going through those applicants how grade points have inflated since I went to school. When I went to school, 4.0 was the best you could get. And very few of us, and certainly not me, achieved that. Um nowadays, uh you can apparently do much much better than that. As I saw from the applications, there were two things that stuck out in Anderson's uh uh response to our questions. One was that uh he had formed

074a group of of younger students with the goal and purpose of trying to get them interested in investment and stockpicking and things of that nature. And one of the challenges he discussed and as and these were younger kids even younger than high school. How do you get them to think about and understand companies that you might want to invest in as a as a stockholder and it'd be fairly easy to talk about a company like Apple because every one of those kids is probably walking around with an iPhone. But he wanted to take it further than that and make them think about other companies. So he picked there was a company like Manderly. Anybody own Manderly stock? Many of us maybe don't know what it is. Certainly not a 10-year-old, but he communicated by that

075that what do they make? Oreo cookies. Every everybody knows Oreo cookies. And he used that connection to get them to think about what does that company do? I thought that was a pretty unique way of uh trying to bring those thoughts forward. Secondly, in his own personal passion, he said that his family trip was to go to the Berkshire Hathaway Warren Buffett annual meeting, which happens to be this weekend. So, I'm hopeful the reason he's not here is because he went back. Uh, so congratulations to all the students and especially to Anderson for his achievements and uh we wish him well for his future. Thank you. Hello everyone. My name is Michaela Trouy and tonight I would like to introduce Mrs. Maggie Decker who will be presenting the Clarkson Found who is from the Clarkson

076Foundation for Public Education. Tonight she will be presenting the preservation um Clarkson scholarship and I would like to congratulate this this year's winner Jonathan [Applause] George. Hi, my name is Maggie Ducker. I'm here on behalf of Preservation Clarkston, which was founded in 2019 to preserve the historical Bailey House on Sasha Road. We've been very fortunate to be able to work with the construction tech program and work with the students for the past five years renovating and uh preserving this home. The students have been able to come out to the historic site four days a week for the last four years or five years and learn valuable skills that they otherwise wouldn't learn in the classroom. We're always looking for new projects in the community to help better our students learn new skills. We've worked uh

077on the village Clark the village of Clarkston Hall and uh the Bailey House with the students. This year we are honored to award Jonathan George our scholarship um based on him pursuing a skilled trade in the future. Thank you. Hello, my name is Anthony Preventure and I am pleased to introduce our next presenter, Mrs. Stephanie Banks, who is here representing the Clarkston Education Association. Tonight, Mrs. Banks is presenting the CA scholarships to Ben Ankram, Lauren Butcher, Brady Cody, McKenzie McDaniel, Evan Seavoy, and Lily Spencer. [Applause] The Clarkson Education Association is the union that represents the nearly 550 teachers, counselors, social workers, and other certified staff in the Clarkson Community Schools. As a way to give back to the families of our members, the CEA established a scholarship for children of CA members graduating from Clarkson

078High School. Tonight, our scholarship goes to six of these such students. This year, we asked our applicants to describe what unions meant to them. Our scholarship winners had responses such as, "It has a profound impact, including advocating for me as a student and supporting teachers rights." Another applicant said, "Unions stand for advocacy, justice, and strength via solidarity. They make certain that people who devote their lives to teaching others receive respect and decency." And another quote was, "The support of the union undoubtedly allows my mom to focus on what she does best, helping students navigate their academic and personal challenges. These students have been described as being exceptional leaders and have consistently gone above and beyond making a positive impact in their communities through their dedication, perseverance, and determination. On behalf of the Clarkson Education Association,

079I would like to congratulate these five students because I know one's not here. And as the recipients of the 2025 CA scholarships, thank you. Hello everyone, my name My name is Avery Phillips and I am here to welcome Mr. Patrick Berdick who will be presenting the Clarkson Foundation, the Michael Berdick Chemistry and English scholarships. This year's recipients are Noah Graditis and Jacqueline Sweda. [Applause] Good evening everyone. Uh it's it's a pleasure to present tonight on behalf of my brother the two scholarships through the Clarkson Foundation. My name is Patrick Berdick. I stand in front of you because of this guy right here, my brother Mike. proudly wearing his varsity jacket. He was a Mike was a 1978 graduate Clarkson High School. He passed suddenly at his home in Northern California. Lived in Los Altos December

080of 2021. There were no warnings and no goodbyes. Mike was retired for a couple years. He was my best friend. We talked four to five days a week and poof, one day he was gone. I ask all of you to cherish your family, your friends, and loved ones. Be kind, help, and give if you have the opportunity. Many of the scholarships awarded this evening were in are in memory of loved ones. Mike took the initiative to give and establish the two scholarships prior to his passing. He loved Clarkson High School and wanted to provide opportunities for others, thus establishing the Michael Berdick Chemistry and Language Arts Scholarships, two of his favorite subjects. I took action soon after his passing, wanting to do something in for his memory and all he did for his family and

081the community. I held the first annual Michael Berdick memorial golf outing at the Fountains August of 2022. I'm now coming up on year four of August. I'm very passionate about this event. We had a hundred people last year in attendance. I've raised tens of thousands of dollars over the years to make sure the giving continues for many years to come. Mike was born in New Milford, Connecticut, spending most of his childhood in Clarkston. We moved to the village of Clarkston in 1967. He attended Clarkston public schools and then Michigan State University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in biochemistry from the College of Natural Sciences. Mike and his wife Marie have also donated monies to Michigan State, establishing the Michael Berdick Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Scholarship. So, anybody that's up there at Sparty Land,

082apply for that. You got to be a junior. Mike enjoyed a long career working in the pharmaceutical industry, initially in research lab and then regulatory affairs at various biotech companies in the San Francisco Bay area. Mike enjoyed sailing, flying, had a private pilot license, golf, tennis, soccer, this varsity jacket. Mike was he received that for tennis and golf. He survived by his wife Marie and his daughter Karina. Now to present the Michael Berdick Language Arts Scholarship. In fall of 2021, Mike reached out to one of his favorite high school teachers, French teacher Carol Aaron. He loved the foreign languages so much he wanted to honor her by establishing the language arts scholarship and that he did. Carol retired from Clarkson High School after 25 years of teaching French. A cute little story. She attended the

083first golf outing lunchon And at the in in August of 2022, I had many items on the raffle table. She won the giant booze basket at the raffle. She seemed elated. I guess after many years of teaching, she probably needed it. What a beautiful, kind soul she was. Unfortunately, Carol passed away in March of 2023. Now, we're going to get on to the recipients. We have Jacqueline. Come on up. tell you a little bit about Jacqueline. She had she had a 4.0 gradepoint average. She was vice president of the Spanish club, president of the Clarkston Tutor Connection, member of the National Honor Society, a varsity cheerleader for four years, and a competitive varsity cheerleader for four years. I know how hard that is because my daughter did that for the same in Rochester. So that's

084hard work. I think you guys are the hardest working athletes at the school. also a OA scholar athlete all four years, academic allstate all four years. She will be attending the University of Michigan studying predental. Congratulations. Welcome. Now, the Michael Berdick Memorial Chemistry Scholarship. Let me tell you a little bit about Noah. He had a very impressive gradepoint average of 4.273. He was a national merit scholar, a Ketering University STEM, obviously people know science, technology, engineering, and math. Olympiad winner. He was involved in many areas with the business professionals of America. Was a big part of team rush. He aspires one day to be a college professor. You will be attending the University of Michigan studying computer sciences. Congratulations, man. Thank you. [Applause] Um, good evening. My name is Audrey Morgan. I would like to

085introduce Thomas Smith, master mason of Cedar 60 and chair of scholarship committee of Cedar Lodge 60, free and accepted Masons of Clarkston. He will be presenting the 2025 Elwin Brown Masonic education scholarships to Colin Drain and Christian Leenford. Thank you for that. Nice job. Appreciate that. Good evening. My name is Tom Smith and I have the wonderful opportunity to represent the brothers of Cedar 60 tonight. Presenting the winners of the Ellen Brown Masonic Education Scholarship for 2025. For those of you that don't know, Cedar Lodge number 60 free and accepted Masons are located in downtown Clarkson. We've been serving this community and the surrounding areas every day for the last 171 years. is donating to families in need, local charitable groups, local schools, or scholarships to VOTE, Clarkson High School, and now Renaissance. We have

086been a staple in the community, eager to help when needed and called upon. I'm going to go off script for a second. We actually had almost a record-breaking number of applicants this year, doubling last year and a year before, and your guys' story was awesome. Initially, when we had this set up, it was for one scholarship for $1,000, which is pretty good. As my fifth grade son and his buddies at PKE used to say, you seniors showed up and showed out, I think is what you say. I'm old, so I'm guessing. So, we actually upped it to two scholarships at $2,500 each. So, I'm not sure if you're aware or not. So, tonight is my great honor to present the Ella Brown Masonic Educational Scholarship to Connor Drain and Christian Lunsford. So, I have these

087uh little plaques for you boys here. I'll hand it out to you. Your checks were not coming in the mail. We're doing a little social lodge, good tour, and all that fun stuff. But for uh Connor, here you go. Christian, here you go. Nice job. And thank you everyone. Have a great [Applause] evening. Good evening everyone. My name is No Man. I'd like to introduce the marketing manager of Bowman Auto Group, Miss Gina Gravagala. Miss Gvaga will be presenting the Bowman Auto Group scholarship and the winners are Connor Drain and Mackenzie [Applause] McDaniel. Good evening. It's an honor to join you tonight to celebrate the achievements of Kirkston High School's class of 2025. My name is Gina Garvalia and I'm the marketing manager at Bowman Auto Group here in Clarkston and a proud CHS alum.

088Each year, Bowman Auto Group awards scholarships to two exceptional students. And tonight, we are proud to announce the recipients. This scholarship um this scholarship honors students who demonstrate outstanding dedication, leadership, and commitment. This year, we are excited to recognize Mackenzie McDaniel and Connor Defrain. Mackenzie's passion for animal care and sustainable agriculture has been evident from a young age. At just 10 years old, McKenzie founded Mackenzie's Extraordinary Eggs, managing her own farm business, now pursuing an associate degree in business management through the Oakland ACE program. She plans to transfer to Michigan State University to study zoology. McKenzie aims, excuse me, McKenzie aims to create a large-scale farm focused on animal welfare and sustainability. Beyond academics, she's an active leader in the Be Nice Club, FFA, and the River Church, showing a true commitment to making a

089difference. Congratulations, Mackenzie. We're proud to support your journey. Connor is an exemplary student in Eagle Scout, having dedicated countless hours to community service, including his Eagle Scout project, where he repaired a hiking trail at the Holly Recreation Center. His passion for chemistry and engineering is clear, and he plans to pursue a degree in chemical engineering at Michigan State. Connor<unk>'s goal is to solve real world problems, particularly environmental issues like water pollution and chemical spills. With his dedication to service and leadership, we're confident he will continue to make a positive impact. Congratulations, Connor. We look forward to uh your future accomplishments. [Applause] Hello, Leighton Zerba again. It is my pleasure to introduce Miss Jessica Reid who will be announcing eight recipients of the parent teacher organization scholarship this evening. Congratulations to the following students receiving the

0902025 PTO scholarships. Nathan KS, Grayson Clark, Grayson Clifford, Jackson Fletcher, Allison Gilbert, Jason Le, Noah McClean, and Athena Tedar. Good evening. My name is Jessica Reid and I am the treasurer of the CHS PTO. is my pleasure to present the CHS PTO senior scholarships this evening. I would like to take a moment to thank you for supporting this high school PTO and each of the PTO's throughout your students time in Clarkston Community Schools. It is through your generous support that we are able to enhance the educational experience for students and support the school community. Your contributions are invaluable and have helped provide additional resources that benefit both students and staff. Thank you for your unwavering support. This year's I have a senior of my own. This year's senior scholarship recipients are Jason Le, Grayson Clifford,

091Nathan. Oh goodness. G Nathan Karens. Oh, sorry. Athena Tedar, Jackson Fletcher, Noah McClean, Grayson Clark, and Allison Gilbert. Thank you. [Applause] Hello again. My name is Dne White and I'd like to introduce Miss Amy Seaman, theater manager for Clarkson Community Schools. Miss Seaman will pres will be presenting three scholarships tonight. The winners of the Barb Gibson scholarship are Noah McClean and Keith Garrison. The winners of the supporting player scholarship are Lily Spencer and Luke Agar. And the winners of the outstanding thespian awards go to Hannah Bazinski and Devin Garing. Well, hello. I will start, I think, with the Barb Gibson Outstanding Drama Student Award. Um, it is from the Kirk Gibson Foundation in honor of his mother, Barb, who was the theater director and producer for Clarkson Schools from 1968 to 1992. She produced and

092directed our first musical, which has since become a 57-year tradition. Through her leadership, we joined the International Thespian Society 55 years ago. Barb devoted her life to the life and career to nurturing the children of Clarkston in the performing arts. in much of what we do. Now, this is based on the foundation she so lovingly built. To be eligible for this scholarship, you need to have been very involved in the CHS drama club and must plan on majoring and pursuing a career in the arts. A successful career in the arts isn't just about talent. There is no denying that Keith and Noah have talent. If you saw our recent productions this year of Hello Dolly and most recently Clue, you'd agree with me. But talent only gets you so far. These two understand that success

093in the arts comes with more than just talent. You have to embrace hard work. You have to trust the process, learn from your setbacks, and find joy in challenges. This will undoubtedly serve them well in their future endeavors. It's exciting to think about where their passion and dedication will take them. Congratulations on receiving the Barb Gibson Outstanding Drama Student Scholarship of $2,500. [Applause] All right. Supporting players scholarship recognizes deserving students who dedicate their time and talents beyond their usual areas of expertise. These individuals identify needs and selflessly step in to assist wherever that may be. People like that are the unsung heroes of a theatrical production and of troop 803. So, let me share a little bit about Luke. Luke consistently works for the benefit of the troop. When he's not rehearsing on stage, he

094can be found assisting in the scene shop. He currently serves as our club treasurer. Luke is always present to lend a hand or gather volunteers for any event, whether it's a concessions fundraiser or moving heavy set pieces, which we did just the other day, into storage. Um, Lily Spencer has experience in numerous roles beginning with sound. She expanded her involvement to include props, crew, set building, mime director, several officer positions over the years, and ultimately our stage manager. She does it all and is always willing to contribute further. These two individuals consistently go above and beyond receiving very little recognition for their significant behindthe-scenes work. So, thank you and congratulations. The outstanding Thespian Award and Scholarship. The International Thespian Society motto reads, "Act well your part. There in all the honor lies." It's a good

095motto and it speaks volumes that Hannah Bazinski and Devon Gearing embody this. Both of these amazing people approach anything they do with dedication, integrity, a focus on contributing their best and not just for their own personal gain or recognition, but for the good of the entire troop. Hannah is a brilliant actor, a talented and patient director of our children's theater program. She is PR and program chair in our current president of our drama club. Devon is a knowledgeable sound technician, set builder, web master, and a strong leader in our tech and crew departments. Both of them are loaded with common sense, which is one of my favorite things, and are a friend to everyone. That kind of commitment coupled with their talent and friendly nature truly makes them deserving of the outstanding thespian award and

096scholarship. They're setting a wonderful example for our future club members and are leaving quite a legacy. Congratulations. Thank you. [Applause] [Music] Hello again. I'm Michaela Trouy and I will be announcing the recipient of the Joe Mosher Memorial Scholarship which will be presented by our one and only Mr. Cole. This year's W winner is Anthony Provinure. [Applause] Jill Traver, when she was here with us in Clarkston, was the validictorian of the Clarkston High School class of 1978. While Jill was an exceptional and well-rounded student during her time at CHS, her friends and family described her as someone who demonstrated an extraordinary work ethic, dedication, and resolve toward both her academic endeavors and all aspects of her life. Uh, sadly, Jill passed away in 2023. And to honor her memory, Jill's family has graciously dedicated a scholarship

097for a like-minded CHS student who's academically capable, active within the school community, has made positive contributions, has a defined host post high school plan for their education, is devastatingly handsome, and like Jill comes from a single parent family. Jill's surviving spouse and children wish to provide financial assistance to a graduating senior uh who has lost a parent and are being raised in a single parent household in recognition of their resilience and academic dedication despite facing significant personal challenges. So on behalf of the Traver family down in North Carolina, I'm very grateful to pres be able to present this to Anthony. Congratulations. I believe there is $2,500 in there. So, don't lose that thing. Folks, let's have a round of applause for everyone who was up here tonight and all of our students in the audience.

098Um, in closing, for about the last 15 years, I've always said the same thing. We would like to thank the community for its support, parents for your guidance, and students for your efforts. Have a great night, folks, and have a great end of the year. Congratulations, students.