The Pennridge 2025 graduates toss their hats into the air to celebrate their graduation. (Credit: John Worthington/MediaNews Group)
More than 500 graduates received their diplomas Wednesday evening at the Pennridge High School commencement ceremony at Helman Field in a ceremony centered on embracing leadership, welcoming challenges and preserving friendships.
“This moment is the start of a new beginning. Growth, change and challenges are all part of the journey, and that’s exactly what’s ahead for all of us,” said Class President Macey Najarian. “We’re entering a new world, and there will be moments where we’ll feel we’re out of our depth. But we’ll learn to thrive and learn that the world is bigger and more complex than we could’ve ever imagined.”
“If we take the time to reach out and care about others in our lives, that is how we will lead, with compassion, kindness and love,” said student speaker Brendan Ray. “No matter where we go from here, we all have the ability to lead with every day, hour and second that goes by.”
“We may be leaving the school, but the best parts of it — our friendships, growth and shared moments — they stay with us,” said student speaker Keziah John. “They remind us of who we are and what we’re capable of. The world is waiting for us, not to be perfect, but just to be us.”
Pennridge graduates proceed into Helman Field at Pennridge High School for the commencement ceremony. (John Worthington – MediaNews Group)
Pennridge graduates walk down the aisle to their seats to begin the commencement ceremony. (John Worthington – MediaNews Group)
2025 Class President Macey Najarian speaks at the commencement ceremony. (John Worthington – MediaNews Group)
Student Brendan Ray speaks at the commencement ceremony. (John Worthington – MediaNews Group)
Student Keziah John speaks at the commencement ceremony. (John Worthington – MediaNews Group)
More than 500 Pennridge graduates crowded Helman Field for the 2025 commencement ceremony. (John Worthington – MediaNews Group)Following the student speakers was Pennridge High School principal Timothy Keddie, who encouraged the graduates to exemplify the Pennridge motto, “Proud, Principled and Prepared.”
“As you commence this next chapter, I encourage you to embrace the principles that have been a part of your time at Pennridge,” said Keddie. “Your tenure at Pennridge may be ending, but what lies ahead is yours to define, shape and pursue with purpose. Don’t aim to just make a living; aim to make a difference. The future is yours to create.”
“Honor, courage and commitment are life principles that became a compass for me,” added Superintendent Angelo Berrios. “I encourage you to live with honor, lead with courage and stay committed to your goals, your growth and the people who believe in you.”
School board President Ron Wurz wrapped up the speeches by urging the graduates to preserve their Pennridge friendships, traditions and connections as they move forward in life.
“As you step into the next chapter of your lives, carry with you the friendships, traditions and connections that have shaped you,” said Wurz. “Let them be your compass when you are lost, your anchor when you are adrift and your wings when you are ready to soar.”
“Friendship is a golden thread that ties the heart of all the world,” Wurz concluded. “Hold onto that golden thread.”
Pennridge High School principal Tim Keddie speaks at the commencement ceremony. (John Worthington – MediaNews Group)
School board president Ron Wurz speaks at the commencement ceremony. (John Worthington – MediaNews Group)
A graduate receives his diploma. (John Worthington – MediaNews Group)
A graduate receives her diploma. (John Worthington – MediaNews Group)
