Southwestern graduates are pictured throwing their caps into the air after graduating Friday.

LAKEWOOD – The 120 graduates in the Class of 2024 at Southwestern High School gathered for the final time as a senior class Friday in the auditorium during the district’s 77th annual commencement.

Clad in matching navy gowns with red piping, the ten dozen 12th-graders proceeded onto the stage while the high school band played “Pomp & Circumstance” to the delight of the crowd of parents, guardians and loved ones.

Senior class co-vice presidents Lauren Cotter and Ebaad Meer welcomed those in attendance then everyone stood for “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Following the introduction of the guests, senior class co-president Faith Hamilton addressed the audience.

“Seeing all of my classmates’ faces on this stage, as well as the individuals who have helped get them here, I’m certain that this is only the start of many amazing things that we will do in this life,” said Hamilton. “This is no longer a bittersweet ending, but a beautiful beginning to the rest of our lives and the accomplishments that wait for all of us. Southwestern has provided an environment that made it possible for us succeed and thrive. … we are forever thankful to the teachers, administrators, and family members who have supported us throughout our journeys.”

Salutatorian Lucy Colburn, who is going to study biomedical engineering and material science at Carnegie Mellon University, reflected on school memories, both sad and happy.

“Looking back, I feel proudest of the moments where I overcame my personal biases to show kindness,” said Colburn. “And moving forward in our educations and careers, I hope each of us can continue to see the intricacies in the lives of others.”

Valedictorian Kenji Walters acknowledged all the hard work and late nights it took for him to achieve the highest rank of the Class of 2024, and humorously noted it wasn’t easy for him to be the “teacher’s pet.”

“We’ve had so many layered experiences and opportunities already, but today isn’t the end of our glory days, is it?” asked Walters, who plans to major in aerospace engineering at Rochester Institute of Technology. “These aren’t the best days of our lives. We’re not done yet. Frankly, we’ve just started making our impact on the world. And in a class with so many unique talents and interests, I have no doubt our impact will be remembered.”

The awarding of diplomas was led by Superintendent Maureen Donahue, Board of Education president Kurt Gustafson, Principal Scott Cooper and Director of Instructional Services Molly Moore.

Following the traditional change-over of the tassels, the graduates headed outside for a group cap toss underneath the large “Southwestern” sign on the high school gymnasium. Photo opportunities along with refreshments provided by the Class of 2023 in the multipurpose room.