‘Grit and perseverance’: CSA New Tech graduates celebrate a challenging four years

“Change is not always easy, but it is a part of life.”

These were the words of CSA New Tech graduate and Columbus East Valedictorian Jenna Boewe as she spoke at Friday’s commencement for CSA New Tech. The ceremony took place inside East’s auditorium, with families packed tightly into seats — so much so that organizers had to bring out extra chairs.

One of the themes of the evening seemed to be perseverance, as each speaker highlighted the crucible of the last four years — only one of which could be considered “normal,” due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the changes that came with it.

“We are proud of who you’ve become,” said Principal Mike Reed. “All of you have demonstrated great perseverance through an especially challenging high school career and senior year. This diploma represents your determination, your work ethic, your drive and your desire to succeed. You have crossed the finish line and you have represented yourselves, your school and your family with pride.”

And, given the boisterous cheers as students received diplomas and turned tassels, it was clear their families shared that pride.

So did school staff — CSA New Tech facilitator Veronica Buckler said that while the world is full of uncertainty and obstacles, she has been encouraged by this class’s “determination and passion to succeed and to find answers to life’s toughest questions.”

“You endured a global pandemic and the three most stressful years of learning anyone could imagine,” said Buckler. “And yet, you are sitting right here before me, proof that grit and perseverance pay off.”

Superintendent Jim Roberts compared the graduates’ high school career to the “rapids of a twisting river” and congratulated them on navigating the challenges of the past three years with resilience. He also encouraged students to keep going and to set their minds to new goals.

He then quoted “The River” by Garth Brooks.

“‘You know a dream is like a river, ever changin’ as it flows, and a dreamer’s just a vessel that must follow where it goes,’” said Roberts. “As you look to tomorrow and the hope that is there, your dream is a river, and you are the vessel that chases it. ‘Too many times we stand aside and let the waters slip away, ‘til what we put off ‘til tomorrow has now become today.’ Today was a tomorrow, not too long ago. It is hard to understand now, but time goes quickly.”

Boewe also encouraged her fellow graduates to make the most of their time. She said that while only their freshman year was “normal,” the class of 2022 has had “four full years of memories and stories that we will share forever.” She added that, as they move forward into the next stage of life, they should “embrace the change” and seize every moment.

“As author C.S. Lewis once wrote, ‘There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind,’” said Boewe. “So I say to you, look forward to the future and the change it brings.”