The unseasonable windstorms proved to be anything but a hindrance to the spirit of Riverbank High School's Class of 2008, as they entered Mac Arthur Amphitheater on Thursday evening, May22. They were greeted by a standing room only crowd of family, friends and well wishers who braved the wind to celebrate the graduation of 175 Riverbank High seniors.
Associate Student Body President, Janette Ruiz and Senior Class President, Karina Duarte, led the group in the Flag Salute and Welcome. A bilingual opening address offered by Salutatorian, Raquel Medina and Valedictorian, Vania Leonardes followed the announcement of senior awards and scholarships by RHS Counselor Denny Carl. (See awards listing, additional photos on Page A8.)
"Ladies and gentlemen this is a wonderful class, which you can tell by all the honors they have received," Carl stated following the reading of the recipient names.
Carl's sentiments were echoed by RHS principal, Dr. Ken Geisick, during his presentation of the Class speech stating, "They've achieved much academically in their four years of high school. Today we pause to celebrate such achievements.
"I am confident that their experience in Riverbank schools has prepared them for a successful journey," he continued.
Geisick mentioned a number of the senior projects, which were recently completed by the graduates, quoting Woodrow Wilson in the context of the importance of serving others.
"I am most proud of our students who demonstrate character by overcoming obstacles to achieve their goals," the principal said. "And I am proud of the students who respect their classmates for having the courage to be themselves."
Associate Student Body President, Janette Ruiz and Senior Class President, Karina Duarte, led the group in the Flag Salute and Welcome. A bilingual opening address offered by Salutatorian, Raquel Medina and Valedictorian, Vania Leonardes followed the announcement of senior awards and scholarships by RHS Counselor Denny Carl. (See awards listing, additional photos on Page A8.)
"Ladies and gentlemen this is a wonderful class, which you can tell by all the honors they have received," Carl stated following the reading of the recipient names.
Carl's sentiments were echoed by RHS principal, Dr. Ken Geisick, during his presentation of the Class speech stating, "They've achieved much academically in their four years of high school. Today we pause to celebrate such achievements.
"I am confident that their experience in Riverbank schools has prepared them for a successful journey," he continued.
Geisick mentioned a number of the senior projects, which were recently completed by the graduates, quoting Woodrow Wilson in the context of the importance of serving others.
"I am most proud of our students who demonstrate character by overcoming obstacles to achieve their goals," the principal said. "And I am proud of the students who respect their classmates for having the courage to be themselves."
