Quoting the poet Robert Frost, Richard Winn Class of 2008 valedictorian Logan Lewis remined his fellow classmates there have “promises to keep” as they move forward into their futures.

Logan first reflected on what the meaning of ‘graduation was, saying, “What exactly does it mean to graduate? Sure, in a few minutes we will receive our diplomas which recognize our completion of the necessary criteria as defined by this school.

“But, should it not mean more?

“Of course it should. The verb to graduate means to change over time. I remember first reading that definition and smiling to myself. I never had read a truer statement in my life.

“Tonight, at graduation, we recognize this gradual change. This transformation is from boyhood to manhood and from girlhood to womanhood. It is a maturing process which prepares us for all that life has in store and equips us with a combination of skills, etiquette, and knowledge.

“Now, does that mean that we will walk out of this gymnasium tonight ready for whatever comes at us? I do not believe so in the least bit. I do believe, however, that the education that we received here was intended to prepare us to succeed when facing any obstacle.”

While it was natural to reflect on their accomplishments as they graduate, Lewis said, he exhorted them to not rest on their laurels, but strive towards accomplishing even more goals in the future.

“We must not be satisfied with the accomplishments of our high school years, but instead, should remain driven and focused on what the future holds,” Lewis said.

“Tomorrow it will be easy to reflect upon tonight’s achievement with a heart which is content.

“We, however, must resist that temptation and avoid complacency. We should recall, rather, how each endeavor was achieved. If we were to do so, I assert to you that we would find that each feat was achieved with diligence and fervor.”

Lewis reminded his classmates of those promises they had yet to keep.

“There will be times in our lives when we will want to stay in a place of comfort and ignore the duties and commitments we have. As Frost emphasizes the point by repeating the last line of the poem, we cannot allow ourselves to fall into such a trap. We, indeed, do have long lives ahead of us and we must make every decision with that in mind. Remember that a lethargic individual aims at nothing and usually succeeds.

“Although the objective is reached, the goal was most definitely not desirable. Tonight, as graduates, we should leave this place with our hearts full of joy and our eyes fastened upon a goal of great purpose. We would do ourselves and this academy a disservice if we were to permit ourselves to attain anything short of greatness."