Class of 2011: Goodbye High School, Hello World

On their own football field, more than 500 brightly robed Palm Harbor University High School seniors strolled across a stage Friday night to receive their high school diplomas. 

The program requested that the audience “refrain from applauding during the presentation of the diplomas,” but proud friends and families were too excited to avoid the occasional yell, clap, trumpet blast, or handmade sign. 

Shortly into the ceremony, Principal Christen Tonry recognized distinguished grads, giving the audience a quick summary of their post-high school plans. 

Many are future University of Florida Gators, one is heading south to Miami and a co-salutatorian Christian Carvajal, is ivy league bound as he heads to Harvard in the fall.

The honor of valedictorian was bestowed on students: Ambika Anand, Tyler Craig, and James Tian. Anand was the first to speak, reminding the class, “we are better than settling for mediocrity… feel accomplished, we’re finally done!”

Craig reflected on the pivotal nature of the moment. “Many people say they wish they could go back to high school,” he said, arguing that maybe it isn’t because they feel it was the best of times, but because it is in these years that you “make decisions that sculpt your future.” He urged his classmates to shape their future in a way they would be proud of.

Tian’s speech deflected credit quickly from himself and onto his classmates. He admitted that he was standing as valedictorian, illustrating that he is good at something. 

But, he said, “If only there was a valedictorian of art.” He joked about how he was studying for tests while others were practicing their swing, or memorizing lines for a school play. "Pursue those interests,” he encouraged his classmates, “Never settle for anything less than your true passions.”

The seats at the PHUHS football stadium were filled, leaving many to camp out out on the grass, which they did not seem to mind.

The family of Margo Randelman waved yellow t-shirts emblazoned with her name. Rob Randelman, his wife Pam and their son Andy got the matching t-shirts to demonstrate their pride. “I’m so glad she’s done, and really excited for her,” Rob Randelman said. 

After the ceremony, graduate Brandon Murphy stood grinning on the field. “I’m happy to be leaving,” he said, “it’s exciting.” His future plans involve attending the University of South Florida and possibly the Air Force.

The lingering hugs, cheers and smiles suggested that many share Murphy’s sentiments. As Senior Class President Cassandra Bailey said, “We’re finished, yet we’ve just begun!”