Milford Seniors Praised for Potential at Graduation

Milford High School Principal Carolyn Branch found herself channeling the Grapes of Wrath while saying farewell to the Class of 2015 at Sunday’s graduation ceremony. With the Milford seniors ready to receive their diplomas, she quoted a line where Ma says to Al. “Up ahead they’s a thousan’ lives we might live, but when it comes it’ll on’y be one.”

“Think about that, a thousand different lives that you can live, a thousand different paths that you can take, but in the end there will only be one that you did take,” she said.

The quote was part of a larger point that the graduates will truly be tested when life does not go as planned. When that happens, she told the seniors to invest in the solution and be optimistic.

“Treat each new experience as though it is the opportunity of a lifetime At first glance it may not be the class, job, career or relationship that you envisioned but the experience may be the driving force that develops the depth of understanding that you need in order to reach the next level in your life. Let go of grudges and negativity that usurps your mental and emotional energy... use conflicts as defining moments to show the strength and sophistication of your character,” she said.

Class Valedictorian Kimberly Hays said she believed her classmates could do big things, despite what their reputation might be.

“Many people look at the Class of 2015 and see a group of loud, rowdy, uncontrollable kids. I see that too. However, we are also much more than that. At Senior Night, I remembered why the class of 2015 is so great. We are strong, we are supportive and when you get us all together we make things happen. People say a lot of things about our class but no one can say that we don’t work together,” she said. “I believe that each and every one of you is capable of doing big things and if you set your hearts to it will be extremely successful in all that you do. I am proud to have been a part of the best class to ever come through MHS,” Hays said.

In her bittersweet remarks, Class President Taylor Gillatt also said she believed everyone in the class would find success, thanking Milford High School’s staff for helping shape who she is.

“My presidency may end today, but my love for our class is something that never will. Congratulations on all of your accomplishments and for earning the seat you are sitting in right now. Good luck in the future to each and every one of you, and thank you for all the laughs and the good times that I will always remember,” Gillatt said.

Click here to see the names of 2015 Milford High School graduates.