LANFEAR: ‘ENJOY LIFE’S RIDE’

McConniel, Cremer, Gortmaker also speak as 10 seniors say goodbye to Marion High School

He was introduced by co-valedictorian Alexa Gortmaker as “the infamous Mr. Lanfear,” and over the course of the next six minutes, Marion Public School’s government, history, art and contemporary issues teacher — Bill Lanfear — spoke to the district’s graduating class of 2024.

“Graduates, I stand before you today humbled and proud that you chose me to speak here today,” he said. “I have had the honor of, not only being your teacher, but in some cases a mentor, an advisor, or just someone who would listen when you needed to be heard.”

And — as commencement speakers do — Lanfear had some advice.

“Always, always remember to call you parents once in a while,” he said. “Not only will it make them happy but it’s a great way to get free advice, maybe you’ll get invited for a homecooked meal, and if you’re really lucky, you might get some laundry service out of it.”

Lanfear reminded the graduates that their family, friends, loved ones and the staff at Marion Public School have all witnessed their growth firsthand.

“We’ve all watched you struggle and persevere; we have witnessed you stumble and then rise above,” he said. “We have seen your passion and determination in overcoming your challenges, and let me say it has been an inspiration to all.”

Lanfear said the seniors’ departure means different things to different people.

“For some of you it might be the finish line … for others this day might be the starting line for your adult life,” he said. “For your parents and loved ones, this day may be the day that they have been waiting for, to finally have their empty nest and to turn your bedroom into a home gym …

“For teachers and staff this day might mean that we can finally relax knowing that you’re not coming back next year,” Lanfear continued. “Or maybe — just maybe — we will miss having you around. We can’t help but feel somewhat as a family in a school environment like this. After all, we have spent an exceptional amount of time together over the course of your years here at Marion.”

Lanfear said life is unpredictable and he encouraged the graduates to challenge themselves and get out of their comfort zone.

“The idea is not to be perfect, but to always strive for perfection,” he said. “Always keep an open mind and never, ever, stop learning.

“Congratulations, class of 2024,” Lanfear concluded. “Enjoy life’s ride.”

Marion’s 2024 commencement featured the graduation of 10 seniors and remarks from three of them — salutatorian Isabelle McConniel and co-valedictorians Sarah Cremer and Alexa Gortmaker.

“As we stand on the brink of our future it’s impossible not to feel a whirlwind of emotions — excitement, anticipation and a hint of nervousness,” said McConniel. “But among all these feelings, one thing is certain: we did it.”

She thanks family and friends who have supported them and offered gratitude to teachers and mentors for guidance, encouragement and belief in their potential.

“You have shaped, not only our minds, but our characters as well, instilling in us the values of knowledge, integrity and compassion,” McConniel said.

And she encouraged her classmates as they embark on a new chapter of their lives.

“Class of 2024, as we stand at the threshold of possibilities, there is hope and optimism for what lies ahead,” McConniel concluded. “Whatever path you choose to take, let us strive for excellence, pursue our passions and never settle for anything less than our best. Good luck to all of you and thank you for all the memories.”

Cremer spoke of “trials and triumphs” and “unwavering support of our families and friends and faculty whose encouragement has been our bedrock for success.”

She acknowledged that the decisions to come hold promise, but also a challenge; figuring out what to do in life can be difficult.

“I don’t know about you, but I have a challenging time figuring out what I’m going to have for lunch, let alone the rest of my life,” Cremer said. “(But) let us have faith in our abilities, trust in our instincts, and never underestimate the power of our own potential.”

And she quoted Ralph Waldo Emmerson: “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.”

And Gortmaker, in her student address, quoted scripture and said, of all the things she’s learned throughout her years of high school, the most important is “that God provides.”

“This class has been blessed with a variety of talents athletically, theatrically and academically,” she said. “Most of us have participated in wide range of extra-curricular activities, including volleyball, football, soccer, wrestling, basketball, softball, golf, track and field, HNS, FFA, FCCLA … the list goes on. But we don’t have time for that. I’d like my diploma in a timely manner.”

Gortmaker encouraged her classmates to believe in themselves, “because the only person with the ability to prevent your success is you,” she said. “Don’t stop believing in yourself (and) don’t define yourself based on worldly things … lean into God.”

Saturday’s graduation in Marion also included a special and surprise recognition of Karri Wieman, a staff member in the district for 30 years “who has touched the lives of so many students,” said principal Bill Leberman. “She has always stayed true to her core values.”

Leberman then invited Wieman to the stage and reminded her of a list of things she has shared with others over the years — “We learned it all in kindergarten.”

1. Share everything.

2. Play fair.

3. Don’t hit people.

4. Say you’re sorry.

5. Live a balanced life.

6. Learn some and think some and draw and sing and dance and play and work some every day.

7. Have cookies and milk every afternoon.

8. Put things back where you found them.

9. Clean up your own mess.

10. Don’t take things that aren’t yours.

11. Wash your hands before you eat.

12. Take a nap.

13. Watch for traffic.

14. Hold hands and stick together.

15. Be aware of wonder.