In a heartfelt ceremony, the graduating class of 2024 at Gary High School celebrated their achievements and resilience during a challenging high school journey marked by the pandemic. Salutatorians Vanessa Martinez and her fellow classmates reflected on their shared experiences, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and gratitude towards family, friends, and educators who supported them along the way.

Martinez highlighted the significance of embracing future opportunities and stepping out of comfort zones, urging her peers to pursue their dreams with passion. ASB President Jonathan Castaneda echoed these sentiments, reminding graduates to cherish every moment and learn from both challenges and successes throughout their high school years.

Fellow ASB President Amy Benitez acknowledged the emotional weight of the occasion, particularly for those who have lost loved ones during their time in high school. She encouraged her classmates to carry the memories of those individuals with them as they embark on new adventures.

Valedictorian Hector Camaton delivered a powerful message about overcoming adversity, recalling the impact of the pandemic on their education. He celebrated the legacy created by the class and expressed pride in their collective achievements, reinforcing the idea that their journey is just beginning.

The ceremony culminated with the formal certification of the graduates, marking the end of their high school experience and the start of their next chapters. As they prepared to walk across the stage, the graduates were reminded of their hard work and the bright futures that lie ahead.