Memorial Stadium was the site of the 138th annual commencement for Great Bend High School graduates on Sunday, May 11.

The GBHS Band played “Pomp and Circumstance” by Elgar during the processional.

 Seniors and audience members were welcomed by Principal Brock Funke and then Class President Jillian Reimer led the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.

There were speeches by co-valedictorians Reese King and Clarise Snapp, and final remarks by Funke before members of the USD 428 Board of Education presented the diplomas and the celebration began.

Snapp told her fellow graduates, “Before we go our separate ways, let’s take a moment to look back, appreciate the people who helped us along the way, the friends we’ve made, and celebrate how far we’ve come.”

She concluded, “Our best memories won’t come from today, and they might not even come from the big moments we always looked forward to when we were younger. They come from the connections and memories we’ve made on our way to the days we’ve anticipated all our lives. Approach life enjoying the little things because it really does go fast. ... Enjoy the little moments you find yourself in for the rest of your life, because that is what makes it so sweet. Life is really about the connections we make and what happens between “enjoy it, it’ll go fast” and “where did all the time go?” If for the rest of my life I make connections like the ones I’ve made here, and get to experience little moments like the ones I have in these last four years, then I know that will be enough for me."

In her reflection on high school and looking to the future, King’s speech recalled a classmate who passed away in 2020:

“The way Devin Randolph could make an entire class laugh with just one silly comment – a voice that, even five years later, still echoes in the quiet moments when we least expect it. Grief teaches you that some sounds never fade. They just change shape. Devin’s story didn’t end when we lost him; it became part of ours,” she said.

“Devin’s legacy isn’t just in our memories; it’s in our choices moving forward. So as we scatter to new places, let’s carry this lesson: The future belongs to those who know what to ignore ...  and what to amplify. Let’s go be those people.”

Funke reminded everyone, “We only get one life, and what we will do with it is the question. The beautiful thing about life is choosing what you will do with it. I’m not here to tell you what to do with your life, but I wanted to share things I have learned that have helped me along the way.”

Those things were to control what you can (your attitude and work ethic); don’t wait for the perfect time; own your choices; and live your life.

“I want you to take a moment and look at all these people here today, sharing this day with you and celebrating you—parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, friends, teachers, coaches, neighbors, and community members. I can speak for everyone here today when I say we are so proud of each and every one of you. We love you, care about you, and wish you nothing but the best.”