'We present to you the Class of 2018'

Sunday evening, Havre High School celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2018.

One hundred and fifteen students graduated in Sunday's ceremony, which began with the procession of the senior class, followed by a small speech given by Superintendent Andy Carlson.

"Everyone is gathered today to recognize and celebrate the Havre High School Class of 2018," Carlson said.

"Today's ceremony, it marks the culmination of events and life lessons - an educational journey," he said.

"As big as this moment seems to you today, remember this: It is a culmination of a whole bunch of moments; without each of those moments, today does not hold meaning nor does it hold worth," Carlson said.

"Do not waste time today thinking about what can make this moment bigger or more attractive to somebody else. Do not try to measure the moment today," he said to the students.

"What does last are the emotions that you choose to tie to each moment. Be appreciative; share some laughs, hold your family closer ... tie this moment to emotions that spark memories that are worth recalling."  Carlson said before introducing the Graduation Address speaker chosen by the students, Havre High School English teacher Kendall Griggs.

"Students, as you drift off during my rant," Griggs said, "drift off to your memories of the last 13 years ... think about everyone who has sparked a flame within you."

"Don't forget where you come from," he said to the group of graduating seniors.

"I thank  you for doing what I do to you everyday ... for pushing me out of my comfort zone," Griggs added.

"You work and you do it to the best of your ability," Griggs said.

He also advised the class not only to work hard and to take pride in what they do, but also to be passionate about life and, of course, he said, to avoid credit card debt.

Griggs said how thankful he was to his own teachers who helped and guided him.

"The passion you see in me is the passion they gave me," he added.

"Twenty years ago today, I was sitting where you are ... I had no clue what to do ... but because of those who shaped you, you will be all right," Griggs said.

"Havre has done its best, but now it is up to you," Griggs said, adding that he wanted to encourage the students in their own futures.

"This journey is just the beginning," he said, "Don't be afraid to take your time; be sure what you find is right for you."

"I will read the class role for the final time," Havre High School Principal Mike Haugen said after Grigg's speech, as he began the presentation of the diplomas.

Along with the 115 seniors who received their diplomas, another student was recognized who would have been in the Class of 2018.

Graduate Robert Scott O'Leary held a portrait of his childhood friend Kellen Patrick Lund as his name was announced and the audience gave a standing ovation.

Lund died when he was 9 years old after he was hit by a semi-tractor trailer while crossing the street at the viaduct on Seventh Avenue.

Before the recessional, Haugen asked the students to make some eye contact with their families in the audience; to remember to thank their families for all they have done.

Haugen also thanked the parents and the staff for all they had contributed to the students during their time in school.

"We present to you the Class of 2018," Haugen said, before the audience stood as the Havre High School graduates exited the gym.