Davidson Day School's Class of 2020 Senior Speeches

DAVIDSON DAY SCHOOL

C L A S S O F 2 0 2 0 SENIOR SPEECHES

J A S O N K R E G E R My decision to move schools my senior year was a difficult one. I wasn’t sure what to expect, and I was more than nervous, but now that I’m here, I can say that I am very thankful that I decided to make the transition.

After attending public schools throughout my entire life before moving to Davidson Day for my last year of high school, I can assure you all that Davidson Day is a remarkable place that has improved my education, social skills, and my overall high school experience.

From the very first week I spent at Davidson, I knew there was something special about this school. For me, Davidson has been a completely new high school experience. It's a place where the sports teams are exceptional, the students are kind and welcoming, and most importantly to me, the teachers make the classes engaging and put the student’s education before all else.

One class I have particularly enjoyed this year has been Calculus with Mrs.Cadilla; she’s an outstanding teacher who ensures that her students thoroughly understand not only the concepts she teaches, but also where they are derived from, which makes them more applicable and easier to remember. Although Calculus is a course that may not seem fun to some people, I’ve enjoyed it for a multitude of reasons, one of which is the constant random remarks and questions Tom comes up with (that have nothing to do with the discussion topic or math in general).

If you wander away from math and to the other end of the educational spectrum, you have Mrs. Pelino’s English Class. Prior to being in her class, I never imagined that a book could truly be interesting and keep me engaged despite my annoyingly short attention span.

However, thanks to Mrs. P, I now know that some books can be worth a read.

Outside of the classroom, I also experienced some pretty memorable moments earlier in the year with the soccer team. One of my personal favorite moments of the season was winning our first qualifying match on the home pitch. The feeling of seeing our five to zero lead on the scoreboard in the last few seconds of the game gave me a sense of achievement and excitement that I’ll never forget, and I am so thankful for the teammates and coaches who shared that day with me.

Throughout the past few months, I’ve experienced so many memories that I’ll never forget, and I’d like to give a general thanks to everyone who has contributed to those special times.

To all my coaches, teachers, and newfound friends, thank you all for welcoming me into the Davidson Day community like you did, and making my last year of high school one that will stay with me forever.

To my Mom and Dad, thank you for always being at my side, even when I make mistakes.

It’s hard to express in words how grateful I am that you both work so hard to support me in any way you can. From giving me the opportunity to attend Davidson, to making me breakfast and dinner, to attending all of my soccer games, you guys have always been there for me, and I can’t thank you both enough for it.

Lastly, a word of advice to the underclassmen: high school is a mix of everything, good and bad. It can be your biggest nightmare or the most enjoyable four years of your life, but it goes fast, and will only be what you make of it - so get involved and enjoy it while you can.

Thank you.

L U K E R O B I N S O N I just wanted to start off by saying that your speech was great, Jason. It’s super tough as a first-year student delivering this speech, especially because you’ve never heard one yourself.

As Logan just said, my name is Luke Robinson. I am well, a senior here at Davidson Day School. Having spent only two years here, my reflection on the time spent will be less in quantity however more in quality.

My first memories here started on the basketball court. That summer prior to my junior year, we had basketball workouts throughout the months of May and June. We traveled to James Madison University for team camp, and we had a great time. I’ll never forget when Coach Johnson gave us our schedule on the first day and said, “Ahh, alright guys our first game is at 10:00 tomorrow.” I remember everyone being stoked (maybe not Jackson) about getting some good sleep for the following day. He finished his sentence with, “So, we will wake up at 6:15, get a practice in, and then go eat breakfast before our first game.” I didn’t know what I had gotten myself into….

I remember that week specifically, about 10 practices, 15 games, and the only way to get through something like that is to have your best friends by your side. That team camp we ended up losing 2 games, winning about 10 or so. I remember Jackson and CJ picked up their first offers there. They only ended up getting like 30 more scholarships or something, so not very many.

The next memory I remember happened in math class the very first day of school. We were in Mrs. Guffey's room, and I was sitting beside my friend Will Coble and new friend Henry Jamison. I had no clue what to expect in any of my classes and didn’t really know how the teachers were going to be. Ten minutes in, I once again did not know what I had gotten myself into. Mrs. Guffey was talking about jelly fighting in a kiddy pool. I was absolutely hysterical as I laughed for minutes with my friends. I learned that was Mrs. Guffey’s humor that everyone had gotten to know and love. That first day was a preview of the entire year.

We laughed nonstop every class, and I know that it got on Mrs. Guffey’s nerves, I apologize for that by the way.

Some more of my favorite times here came on the bus rides during basketball season.

Whether we would just laugh with each other, talk about sports, or talk with Steven about all of his girls, it was always a good time. Occasionally, Coach BJ would stop and let us get some Chick Fil A. We would stop and get some food, and most importantly, a peppermint milkshake. I mean, who doesn’t love a peppermint milkshake? Well, after our Carmel Christian game, we stopped at Chick Fil A, and I got the usual: a chicken sandwich, fries, and a Sprite, and since we won, I felt like treating myself to a peppermint milkshake. We got our food to-go and ate on the way back. I had a lot of food and got sidetracked mid-ride and left my milkshake out of sight. As I was eating my sandwich, I felt a cool liquid drip onto the back of my leg. At that point, I could tell you exactly who doesn’t love a peppermint milkshake. I got up and the entire thing was in my bus seat. I spent about 15 minutes cleaning it up, and Steven thought it was funny so he decided to take a video. Well, let’s just say BJ is a little unpredictable behind the wheel and hit a bump. Steve dropped his phone right into my seat and no longer loved peppermint shakes either. That is not where the story ends either. When Steven picked up his phone and started cleaning it, I was once again sidetracked, and let's just say the Sprite may have spilt all over the floor as well. I would say it was an unsuccessful bus ride back after our big win…

My two years here have been a blast. I have grown so much as a person in the classroom and in the community. I’ve been through the definitive “highs” and “lows” of high school here. I have experienced an array of emotions from time to time here at Davidson Day School: I’ve felt utter disappointment from my spilt milkshake, pure happiness after we won the state championship, grief after we lost our headmaster, Dr. Baucom, and despair after the injury of our dear friend Lance. I truly believe the Davidson Day community, along with the relationships I have developed here, has become much stronger coping with the tragedies we have been dealt.

As for the people here, who have contributed to the memories, there are a lot to name. First off, I would like to thank my mom. She is the most genuine, loving person I know, and if I grow up to have half of the heart that she does, I will be a great person. I miss a good amount of school but without her, I would most likely compete with Nick Deane for worst attendance in Davidson Day history. You’ve driven me all over the place for all kinds of games, and you are always there for me. I love you mom, and I am sorry that I still don’t know how to do my own laundry.

Dad, everyone always says we have the same personality which may be why we argue a lot. However, you are the biggest role model in my life, and I am so thankful for everything you do for Austin, Kendall, and me. I know it was a hard pill to swallow when Austin and I both passed you in height, in 8th grade, but I am sure you are glad we did. Hopefully, you can come to see some football and basketball games at wherever I end up.

For Kendall and Austin, you both can’t be here, and that sucks, but I love both of you. You’ll see this on mom’s video so Kendall, don’t change for anyone. I love your goofy and hilarious self. I know we will both be devastated when I have to leave. And for Austin, thanks for bullying me until about 6th grade. I know you were upset when I could finally take you down. I’ll see you in a few weeks, so see me on the court, field, anywhere, you don’t want this work.

Along with family, I would like to thank my coaches. Coach Coble, you’ve been coaching me for 9 plus years and I am thankful for all the dedication you have put in for me and the boys.

Coach Johnson, thank you for pushing this year’s team to reach the best of our abilities.

Thank you for showing us what true dedication really means. You’ve shown us that if we want something, we can work hard enough to get it, I will never forget that. Mr. Saunders, I am glad to have developed the relationship we have. I had a blast in Portugal, and I am NOT an undercover cop I promise. Mr. Simpson, you’ve kept it real, and I’m sorry for being a gaslighter in your classes. Mrs. Pelino, thank you for helping me with most of my college essays on the day before they were due. Thank you to all of my other teachers for working hard and giving me the tools needed to succeed.

For my all of the new friendships I have developed here at Davidson Day, I am thankful. I truly believe I have developed many friendships that will last a lifetime.

For the underclassmen, I have a lot of advice, but I am going to keep it simple. Don’t be afraid to play the new sport, run for that class position, or something like starting a club. I branched out when I came to Davidson Day School, and the experiences I have had are unmatched.

C A T H E R I N E

" C A T "

B O D I C K When thinking about what I was going to say for today, all I could think about was “how did I end up here,” and by "here" I mean this point in my life, a senior at Davidson Day getting ready to graduate. And when thinking about everything that led up to why I am here, I realized that everything happens for a reason. My dad has always told me that life is like a Nascar race. You are on a track racing against a bunch of other drivers to the finish line.

During the race, you face setbacks and inevitably something will go wrong. Even though you thought you did everything right, things can still happen. You can wonder and struggle to figure out where things went wrong or you can just fix it as best you can and try again.

Before I was a student at Davidson Day, I attended South Iredell High School for my freshman and sophomore year. South, unlike Davidson Day, is a large public school with about 1600 students, and in their graduating class of 2020, about 300 students. When I started at South as a freshman, I thought that was the place I was meant to be. It was awesome, all of my friends were there, I was meeting new people, and I was on the varsity volleyball team as a freshman, life was great! However after freshman year things changed, I changed. I faced many challenges academically and socially and felt like I was going to crash. I wasn’t happy. I was always told that high school was supposed to be the best four years of your life. Everyone told me it was amazing, full of fun experiences, friends and memories. My sophomore year at South was none of those things. I tried to fix things on my own which was my first problem. My friends and family realized what was going on and decided I needed a change.

We began looking at almost any school in the area we could think of--public, private, charter, you name it. Even though I knew a change was coming, I still felt lost. It was like I had a good crew chief and the right car, and I was running my race, however, my crew didn’t mesh well for me. I needed something or someone to guide me through, I needed a spotter. I soon reclaimed my spotter, God. I became more involved with my local church and honestly that was my light in the dark. It became a place where I was known for who I truly was, and I knew that I now had someone in my corner.

For those of you who don’t know, my middle name is Faith. And faith is what pulls me through. I started teaching 3rd-5th graders on Sunday mornings. And while I taught them about faith and God, they taught me so much more about myself. I became more confident, trusting again, and I found my footing. My team at church was also there for me,

pushing me to grow, guiding me and supporting me on my journey. They have become such a huge part of my life. My church family is my second family.

Soon after that, things got so much better, and we found Davidson Day. The day I shadowed was the day I knew I was meant to be there, as cliche as it sounds. Fast forward about 6 months: I started my junior year at Davidson Day, and I would be lying if I said I wasn't scared. To go to a brand new school, meet new people, and be the new girl was utterly terrifying to me, yet I was excited. I was fortunate enough to be on the varsity volleyball team, so I wasn't going in knowing no one. However it was still an adjustment, but I was happy. I got a restart, I was back in the race. Although it was a tough adjustment, and I struggled at times, I was finally happy again.

As senior year was approaching, I was excited yet slightly sad. All of the lasts I was going to face, the thought of my high school years coming to an end, but I can’t think about that. I am very proud of the person I became, and I would not be this person without numerous people. To my teachers: Thank you for pushing me past my limits, for making me think outside the box and become not just a better student but a better person. To my friends: thank you for always being there for me through the ups and the downs. The memories we have made together I will cherish forever. You all have had such a huge impact on my life, and I can't thank each of you enough for everything you have done for me. To my teammates: I am so proud of the team we became. We were able to overcome so much this past year and achieve our goal--winning that State championship. There is no better group of girls that I would have rather made those memories with. From the early morning workouts to the beach trip and more, we were a family, and I can't thank you all enough for letting me be a part of that family. To my coaches, specifically Coach Cat: You continue to push me everyday in everything I do not just on the court. I first met you as a little 13 year old volleyball player, and you know I was scared of you. If you know anything about Cathy, and I know you know the story and I'm not going to go into that because well it's a little embarrassing. Let's just say she was scary and still is at times. But you were by far one of the best coaches I have ever had. You have literally pushed me beyond my limits to do things I didn't think I was capable of doing, and because of you, I have become the player I am today. Thanks, Queen.

To my family.

To my Nana and my Pop: Thank you for always being there for me. From Disney trips, to long car rides to and from Connecticut, to the M&M’s and noise makers in your red bag and the silly Little Rascals quotes, you are the greatest grandparents, and I am so blessed to have you in my life. Thank you.

Maiya: You mean the world to me in every way. You are not just my sister but my best friend for life. You have taught me so much about being myself and not letting others affect who I really am. You have never failed to be there for me, whether it be at home, on the court or with school. Even though you are smaller than me, you will always be my big sister, and I love you endlessly.

Mom: I don't even know where to start. You constantly put others before yourself, not just your family but everyone. You are the most selfless, caring, loving, and supportive person I have ever met. You have always told me not to shy away from being who I want to be and to never let anyone tell me I can't do something. While dad may have given me my middle name, you taught me what it meant. Faith was something you learned from your family, and you passed it on to me and for that I am forever grateful. Because of you, I believe in myself and am able to see the world as you do. Thank you for everything, I love you always.

Dad: You are my true best friend. More than ever I have now started to see parts of you in myself. Your hardwork, strength, and determination inspire me to be a better person everyday. You support me in everything I do on the volleyball court, in the classroom, and in life. Thank you for teaching me to always work hard for what I want and not to sell myself short of what I am capable of. Most importantly, thank you for showing me what it truly means to always be there for someone and to love unconditionally. You have always been my number 1 fan, and I will always be yours.

As I move on to this next phase in my life, I can't help but think of everything I experienced over the years. From starting at one school, moving to another, everyone I have met, the ups and downs. I am thankful for everything. Without all of these things, I wouldn't be the person I am today. Life is a series of events that lead us to where and who we are meant to be. Throughout this journey, we question what happens and why. I still wonder why things happened in the past and question it everyday. But no matter the reason, it led me to where I am now. I firmly believe that everything that is, is meant to be because God has a path for everyone. The highs, the lows, and the questions make life exciting and unique. So I leave you with this: Everything happens for a reason, so take that thought and use it. Use your highs and your lows to grow and learn about yourself. Don't take anything for granted. Don't let one wreck keep you from being in the race; you can still win it or at the very least give it your best shot.

Thank you.

A D A M B R A Z I L Shout out to Bryce for that introduction. But a more important shoutout to Bryce for being my best friend throughout my two years here at Davidson Day. Bryce is someone who is hard to come by. With his stunning good looks, one might assume that Bryce is cocky, shallow, or a complete tool. And you would not be wrong in any of those assumptions. But let me tell you this; BryceGoDummy has a kind heart, a cute sense of humor, and a trustworthy soul. One day in the distant future, the two of us will take our families on beach trips together every summer and hopefully our kids will carry on the tradition of interracial friendship goals that we started long ago.

At the Davidson Day Open House in August 2018, Mrs. Taylor pulled me and my mom into her office for a little interview. After a couple minutes of small talk, she asked me to describe myself in a few words. I sat back in my chair and took a deep breath. I was nervous to respond. I didn’t know who I was. No matter what I said, she would judge me.

There was a silence in Mrs. Taylor’s office, and it grew more and more awkward with each second that I waited to respond. Finally, I decided to just start talking, hoping that I’d find my way as I went on. “I guess I’m just someone who does the right thing.”

She probably got the impression that I was messing with her, and that’s fine, but I wasn’t.

Perhaps I should have said that I am someone who TRIES to do the right thing, not someone who DOES the right thing. Because less than two weeks after that I got caught for cheating when I let a student who will remain unnamed copy my math homework.

I must admit, I have done the wrong thing a few more times. Like this one time, CJ and I were in the bathroom here at school, and I took the big urinal and left him with the small one. Wrong thing to do, not only cause ole buddy is 6’10, but also because I’m a short king.

Or when I didn’t study for a test in 8th grade because I knew grades didn’t matter in middle school, and I ended up pulling a 24 percent on it. Wrong thing to do, but the lesson learned about studying. Or way back when I stole a mood ring from my sister after she told me over and over not to take it because it was “important to her” and because she “won it at Cici’s”.

Wrong thing to do, but lesson learned. Actually not really cause just last week, I stole her favorite bracelet.

But let’s get back to doing the right thing. It’s really just simple PEMDAS to do the right thing. In my senior year, I supported the volleyball team like my life depended on it; ran cross country because I felt like I could help the team win and help my teammates grow; attended every school play even if it meant sacrificing my Spanish homework for that night; and put together a couple of school dances and even a field day. I also put everything I had into this year's basketball team. And there was no better feeling than winning the state championship two weekends ago. It had been a lifelong dream of mine.

To my teammates, I love you all, and to Steven, I think I speak for both Luke and myself, when I tell you that we cannot wait to hear the rest of that Coach Grier story. Over the past 4 years, I have come to realize that WHAT you are in high school doesn’t really matter.

President, captain of the basketball team, writing club member, state champion, all-state cross country runner, student section leader, honor roll, whatever. It’s WHO you are in high school that really matters. The kind of person you are. How hard you work and how you treat other people. And of course, whether or not you TRY to do the right thing. Not gonna lie, I just added these next parts yesterday and because mom said that my siblings were coming to support me on my big day.

So...Annabelle. Though your teenage hormones rarely make you enjoyable and have turned you into someone I can barely tolerate, the young, chubby, cute version of you that said her “R’s” as “W’s” will always live in my heart. I’m just kidding. You’re actually a really cool sister, and I know it’s a stretch, but I might even go as far as to call you my friend.

Parker. In backyard sports and in fighting, I am so thankful that you never took it easy on me. Had it not been for you beating the living crap out of me in everything we did when we were growing up, I would not have nearly as much heart as I do on the court. And as for off the court, there is no way I would have grown up to have the quickest hands in Mooresville without you. But here we are. Slink, if you see me, it’s still on sight. But I love you PB. Mom. I love you. Thank you for deciding not to name me "Webb" back in 2001. I will miss being able to go out to breakfast with you every Sunday when I am in college, but I promise that I’ll come back as much as I can,because I know that a booth at PicNics will be waiting for us.

Dad, you’re the funniest old person I know, and you’re also my best friend. Stephen Curry follows you on Instagram. Which by law, makes you a dog. Literally every one of my friends calls you Quise, and your name is nowhere near Quise, it’s Mark. Most boys will get up here and talk about how they hope to become half the man their fathers are. But Quise, if I became half the man you are, I would be just over two feet tall. Now that I’m thinking clearly, even if I grew up to be the whole man that you are, I would probably end up working a 9 to 5

making toys for Santa at the North Pole or become one of the Hobbits from the Lord of the Rings. And that, I put on baby. Speaking of baby, I will now leave you all with a quote from Lil Baby. Lil Baby once said: “Lil homie thuggin, he can’t even swim, he in the deep end.”

I believe this statement by Lil Baby to be symbolic of my future transition from high school to college. In this scenario, I will be the lil homie, and like always I will be thuggin. And since I, the lil homie, can barely even swim in high school, taking on the task of the deep end, which in this scenario is college, will be very difficult for me. I may end up drowning. But that’s okay if I do. Cause no matter what I do, I’ll always TRY to do the right thing.

Thank you.

PEMDAS

J A C K S O N T H R E A D G I L L Thank you, Nyles, for the introduction and for being my little brother. First off, I want to thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for allowing us to be here today. I came to Davidson Day during the middle of my sophomore year, and I remember going home after my first day thinking and saying to my mom, I don’t know if this place is for me; but, two and a half years later I can honestly say that it has been the best decision that my family and I have ever made. This institution has given me the platform to be the best version of myself that I could possibly be. Whether it is the basketball practices and games, hanging out with my friends, all the quizzes and tests, I know I’m going to miss this place and everything about it.

Although I’m not quite ready to say goodbye to this place and the people here, I know that I am ready to flip over to the next chapter in my life. But first I want to thank the people that have helped me along the way.

I want to start by thanking the Davidson Day administration for allowing me into your community. I want to thank all of my teachers that I have had at Davidson day. All of you have had an impact on me in a number of different ways. I want to highlight some of the memories that I have shared with some of y’all.

Mr. McGill: I’m going to miss the discussions about life in your English class and the debates on the Celtics and the 76ers.

Mr. Simpson: I’ll never forget the time you walked two miles with me and the rest of the senior basketball boys to an outdoor court in Charleston to play some pickup. You are the real MVP. Mr. Saunders: I’ll never forget the time that you allowed me to work out Owen at your house.

I want to thank you for having confidence in my abilities.

Next I want to thank my coaches, Coach Johnson, Coach Coble, Coach Graham, and Coach BJ: You guys take a lot of time out of your own life and away from your families, so that y’all can help us not only be better players, but better men, and I just want to say thank you for that. I want to thank my teammates. All of you are truly my brothers and I love every single one of yall, even though yall drive me crazy sometimes. I know y'all are going to miss my “don’t looks” - Y'all know what I’m referring to.

Lastly, I want to thank my family. Thank you Savannah and Kaylee for always being there for me and for always supporting me, I love y'all. Mom, I want to thank you for being my rock. You always have been my biggest fan, and I know you always will be. I love you, Mom. Dad, I don’t think anybody believes in me more than you do. Although you always keep me humble and don’t let me get a big head, I know that you believe in me. I want to thank you for showing me what it means to work hard and for showing me how to be a good father. I love you, Dad. Lastly, some advice to the underclassmen: Have you ever thought about who you truly want to be and what you truly want to do with your life, or are you too worried about what the person next to you is going to think? Pursue your dreams, chase your goals, it’s okay to be different. By traveling the road less taken, you will make an everlasting impact on those around you.

Thank you.

A N D R E T R U E This has been the most rewarding last year at Davidson Day for me, and hopefully, for all of you as well. As the last few months fly by, I cannot help but look back at all the memories I have with my friends and teachers. There is nothing more important to me than being able to call a school “Home.” Growing up, I have attended many schools due to our family moving quite a bit. Looking back at myself as a freshman, I can now see how my thoughts were focused more on my daily routine rather than how it was preparing me for my future. I could see that my classes were becoming more challenging and preparing for tests took more time. However, I did not understand back then how it would assist in my development for high school and college.

Many of you have been at Davidson Day for quite a while, but my time here began not that long ago. During my sophomore year, I had a change in my life once again. I started here in the middle of 10th grade, not knowing anyone, or what the next few years here would hold for me, and how it would develop me as a person. As a 10th grader, one starts to come around to the idea that these years do count; they play an essential part in what type of person you are becoming. These years in high school help deepen friendships, provide a glimpse of what kind of career path would fit a person, plus they give a vision of what your life will look like after graduation. It has been a wonderful opportunity attending this school.

Once I started at Davidson Day, I could see how devoted all the teachers were at this school, taking an interest in each student to make sure they understood the material.

During this time, they also taught me to be more assertive when I needed assistance and to do my very best with every class. Some days it took courage, and other times I just had to forge through when I did not think I could succeed, but it is an incredible feeling when I look back and can say, “Wow, I actually did it.” These kinds of milestones in my life are what I believe make Davidson Day a place that is truly unique and outstanding. I can tell you the rewards have been great, and I feel I am fully prepared to take my next step into college.

Some of the highlights that I have enjoyed are the exceptional elective classes they offer.

Contemporary Ensemble has drastically improved my musical skills with the trumpet and now the guitar. Mr. Friedline has been an amazing instructor, but that is not all; he has an entertaining and humorous personality. It has been a blast being a part of his band. My other elective, which is photography, has broadened my interests and given me a new direction in creativity. “Mrs. Woods, you are such a brilliant photographer, and I am honored to have learned so much from you.”

But it is not just the school of Davidson Day or the events that make it so great; it is all of us, both the students and teachers. Each person in the Class of 2020, as well as in the entire school, is distinctive and accomplished. You might be talented in drama or singing, or you are a terrific athlete. Or maybe you are a math or science wiz, fantastic artist, or a person with a warm and caring heart. Each and every one of us have discovered ways to do our best through the gifts we possess.

Senior year at Davidson Day has been the richest by far. We have had a great year cheering on our Davidson Day teams, enjoying the dances and special events, and spending a fantastic senior trip in Charleston together. As the time of our senior year is coming to a close, we will be taking the next step in our lives and living out our dreams.

There will be times we will wonder if we are making all the right choices, but I know we will succeed. After giving it a lot of thought, I can see we do not solely make ourselves into who we are today. It has been all our moments at Davidson Day that have been a big part of shaping us into young adults with determination and integrity, ready to face our future.

Thank you to the teachers and faculty who contribute so much to prepare us for our days ahead and give us the confidence to believe in ourselves. Davidson Day is always supporting us, and we can be sure that their wish for us is to live out our dreams, so we should do our very best and remember how we got here.

To the underclassmen, here is my advice: With a few years left of high school, I am sure that most of you have thought about your near future or have wondered where you see yourself in the next ten years. It is understandable that you might even be worried about your adulthood; we have all been there. So, here is what I will tell you. Live in the now; do not let your worries interfere with your goals, because as long as you do your best today, you will have a brighter future for tomorrow.

Thank you.

D A Z H I

" T O M "

L I Hi, my name is Tom Li, and I am from China, and I have been in this country for three and a half years. From time to time, some of you seem to forget that I am from China, of course never Mr. Simpson, he often reminds me that I am the lazy only-child slash primadonna prince from the land of Communists. But, when I check my Chinese soccer app, kids will say, oh I forgot you did that.

During these 3.5 years, I haven’t been exactly the most hardworking student, nor the most dedicated athlete, definitely not the most respectful son. But being able to become part of this community, and make people forget that I am, in fact, from China, is called being a successful spy.

I am very proud that I am accustomed to the culture of this country. I am proud that I had the guts to stay in the United States solo, and I am very proud that I chose the most caring and welcoming community. Davidson Day has since become a very important part of my life, this school has been the perfect intro paragraph to the essay describing the journey of Tom Li in America. Just like most of my AP Lang essays, it's still unfinished, but so far, it has been 6/6.

However, if I really did stay in the United States by my lonesome, everyone would be calling me Tom Solo. But I had help, a tremendous amount of help and support from so many people that I formally and legally have no relationship with. If not for them, I would still be the loud Chinese kid wearing a button down shirt with basketball shorts. Although I will never admit to this, ever, I am most thankful to Rob Simpson, for the past three years, you were a father, a brother, a friend, a coach, a mentor, and most importantly, a chauffeur.

Sometimes I think he is trying to act like Hiccups’ father Stoick from "How to Train Your Dragon," since he is such a prime example of tough love. He is the person that calls me out for my crap the most, he also bullies me like an older brother, but he has taught me many important life skills, which include ones that normal parents are not comfortable with. But what shows his tough love the most was: after the last game of a frustrating lax season, during the ride home, all the annoying moments started rushing back in my head, and he seemed to notice it and said something along the lines of, "I know how you feel, I can understand that this was a difficult season, I am proud of the way you played through it, and stuck with it, so good job." It's small moments like these, when I am frustrated or sad, he has always been there.

But thank Buddha, Rob Simpson was not the only help I had; there are so many more people from this community that helped me along the way. All the advice, encouragement, lessons and customized treats I received are worth more than the tuition, and my gratefulness extends beyond my English vocabulary.

However, this speech is definitely beyond my parents' vocabulary. Although I joke about missing my dog more than my parents, the truth is, I miss them an equal amount. I love them all tremendously, and here's what I wish to say to them. Mom, you talk so much, and you will tell me about the same thing over and over again (yeah that's why I’m like this), but that’s how I know, in this whole freaking universe, you love me the most. I know that allowing me to go away was one of the toughest decisions you had to make, but you encouraged me to make my own choices. Dad, man, I just want to make you proud, and I’d be lying if you weren’t the person I wanted to be while growing up. Even though you made fun of me for being a soccer goalkeeper, you screamed the loudest for me during every single one of my middle school games. I really wish you could have come to one of my games during high school, since I suck less now.

To wrap this up, I want to thank every person in here who considered me as a friend or laughed at one of my jokes. Perhaps you are just a student ambassador who had to be my friend, or maybe you just wanted entertainment, regardless, thanks for humoring me.

As a tradition, I have a piece of advice for whomever it may concern: step out of that comfort zone, do something new, and when you do it, full send it.

G R A C E M E I S T E R Thank you, Lauren, for that wonderful introduction.

Ever since I was little, I have been told to hold on to memories, because that's what lasts forever. I never really understood why memories meant so much to people when I was younger,but now that I'm older, memories mean the world to me. They inspire me, challenge me, keep me going, and make me happy. I have made countless memories here at Davidson Day with people that I will remember forever; I will always cherish these memories. I would like to thank some people who have supported me throughout all my memories from Davidson Day, the good and the bad: To my teachers: Thank you for being there for me whenever I needed something, responding to my late night emails, making sure I didn't doze off in class, and stopping me from side conversations. Thank you to all the wonderful teachers that have taken me to Dunkin; it’s less about the coffee and more about our relationships. I really appreciate it.

To the many coaches I have had during my time at Davidson Day: You all have pushed me to be the best version of myself, beyond what I thought was my full potential, and I am beyond grateful for the impact you have made over the past 3 years.

To my friends: Thank you for making my high school experience unforgettable. I will cherish the thousands of memories I have made with you guys. One of my favorites is listening to tunes in the car just driving around for fun, looking at crazy houses, or on the way to Clutch.

And to my family: Dad, my favorite memory with you is traveling to Tortola when I was 5, and you got a rock and put a hair tie around it. We played a game where you would throw it in the pool, let it sit, and we would race to get it. Again, less about the rock, and more about the connection we have that grounds me yet at the same time allows me to soar.Thank you for being my inspiration and motivation for success. I am beyond grateful for everything you have done for our family.

Mom, one of my favorite memories with you is when I flip Louis. (For those of you who don't know Louis, he is a 5 pound morkie, and he is my mom's favorite child.) Whenever I flip Louis, I get the best laugh out of you. I will cherish moments like this for the rest of my life. You have been my role model for the longest time. Despite having to listen to your elevator music in the car, I have always looked up to you for advice as well as style. Without your closet, I think I would still be wearing running shorts and an Under Armor hoodie. I am so grateful for our connection and the love you have always shown me.

To my built in best friend, Lauren, I am beyond appreciative of you. You have been there for me since day one. I'm so glad we decided to get along the day you started middle school. I can't imagine my life without you‌.when thinking of my favorite memory with you way too many come to mind. You know what they are. They all add up to our sisterhood which makes me who I am. You are such a huge part of me, and we will always be close.

To the underclassmen: Make as many memories as possible and make the most out of your high school experience. Don't be scared to get out of your comfort zone, because you don’t want to leave with any regrets.

Thank you.

S A R A M O T T O Two short years ago, I enrolled in Davidson Day as a sophomore. I came here from Hough in hopes of boosting my academics. If you’ve never entered a public high school during a school day, picture a sea. A sea of 2,000 students, each having five minutes to rush to the other side of the school for their next class before the bell. Davidson Day on the other hand, is like a pond with its roughly 550 students. Yes, it can get crowded, and yes, sometimes we still have to hurry to class, but it’s doable.

Winston Churchill once said, “To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often.”

Now, nobody’s perfect, as most of us learned from the second season of Hannah Montanta, but everyone is susceptible to change. To improve is to change. Think about that. To improve… is to change. To you that may mean trying a new sport to improve your basic skills, or maybe it means making new friends to improve your social life. To me, it means taking opportunities I never thought would be beneficial and running with them. For example, all of you know the fundraiser I run around Valentines Day, Candy Grams. I introduced the idea to alumni Hannah Dyer and Abby Baucom when they ran Spirit Club my first year here at Davidson Day. It started as a simple recommendation as an activity for all of us, and I ended up running most of it, with the help of my mom. I experienced change. I had to go from being the obnoxious new girl, who would never take the initiative to raise money for the school’s prom, to the mature young adult who would. Now I can say I am that girl. I am that girl who took the initiative to raise money for the school’s prom, because I allowed myself to change who I was.

I’ve never been into playing sports. As a kid, I tried, and I failed, so I said forget it. In October of 2018, I took a leap of faith and requested to be the varsity boys basketball team manager. Why? I have no idea. What I would be doing? I had no idea, but I did it anyway.

The extent of my ignorance showed the first few weeks in practice, when I didn’t know what a lay-up looked like, or where the three point line was. Eventually I caught on, and I improved as the number of practices increased. It was a change for me. Adjusting to 6 a.m. practice, locker room talk, and carrying a heavy bag of jerseys was difficult at first, but I got used to it. Change is inevitable; you can’t run or hide from it, but to accept and embrace the opportunities that will come your way, is your choice.

There are many components of my life that would not be as meaningful as they are without certain people. First, thank you to every teacher who has taken time out of their day to help me learn, your efforts don’t go unnoticed. Ms. Vickie, thank you for always having a smile on your face. You’re the first person everyone sees when they walk in the door each morning, and your positivity can really brighten up someone’s day. Coach Johnson and the basketball team, thank you for being patient with me, and helping me learn the basics of basketball. I have so much respect for every single one of you and your talents. All of you worked so hard, and you definitely deserved that state championship. Papa and Grandmere, thank you for supporting me in everything I’m involved in, and encouraging me to be the best version of myself. You’re part of the reason I even get to attend Davidson Day. I know I don’t show it often, but I really am grateful, and I love you both. Destynee aka besto, I don’t know how I’m gonna go without seeing you every single weekend. I don’t want to think about it, because I’ll start bawling my eyes out, but you’ll always be close to my heart, no matter what. I love you. Finally, Mom. You’ve always been there. For the past 17 years, through the good and terrible times, no matter what, you’ve been there. You taught me to be strong, brave, and to use my voice just like you. You taught me how to be the best version of myself. All of my accomplishments stem from you, so thank you. I’ll never be able to put into words how grateful I am to have you as my mother. You’re going to be the hardest goodbye, so let's enjoy this time while it lasts. I love you.

Recently, in Mrs. Pelino’s English class, we read a letter by author Anne Sawan that she’d written to her five children regarding the Do’s and Don'ts of life. For my underclassmen advice, I’d like to share a list I created of 5 Do’s and 5 Don’ts as you continue high school.

The Don'ts: 1. Don’t let one failure keep you from succeeding. You will fail at some point, and you have to accept that. Learn from it, and get back on your feet.

2. Don’t take anything for granted. Simple luxuries you have right now, can go away in the blink of an eye. Appreciate what you have, because not everyone is as lucky as you.

3. Don’t hold a grudge. Everyone makes mistakes, and life is too short to be mad about something forever.

4. Don’t be a “yes” man - it’s okay to say no, it doesn’t make you a rude or weak person.

5. Don’t judge. Everyone is going through something, and you may not know what it is.

The Do’s: 1. Do be patient. Everyone has their slow days, and rushing won’t get you anywhere.

2. Do introduce yourself to new people. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and have a conversation with someone you never thought you could be friends with.

3. Do think before you speak. Sometimes what you’re thinking doesn’t need to be said.

4. Do say “thank you.” Nobody owes you anything. That guy didn’t have to hold the door for you, so say thank you.

5. Lastly, do be proud of yourself. You’ve made it this far and you’re still going.

Davidson Day has given me the opportunity to grow as a person, and has helped me increase my academic performance in the classroom. Thank you again, to everyone at Davidson Day who’s been a part of my journey. I’ll be furthering my education at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in the fall of 2020. My fellow classmates, enjoy these last few weeks, we’re almost done.

H A D L E Y Z U C K E R Thank you, Logie Bear, for that amazing intro.

So I buy a lot of animals. I've bought cats, I've bought bunnies, and I've bought guinea pigs.

All of which my parents were unaware of until they had been moved into our home. I started a soap factory in my kitchen. I change my hair at least 3 times a year. I talk a lot. I talk to my cats, thinking they understand. I laugh super loud, and frequently. I wear things that are completely out of the ordinary. I make up words like chonk or chink fonk. I say the word yeet or frequently squeak. I have even created my own language called op lop. I do things that most people don’t do. I get odd looks for it, but that's who I am. I have become 100% satisfied with being exotic. People get so scared about being judged. But in the grand scheme of life… it happens all the time, and everyone needs to just ignore it. Don't let the opinions of others degrade who you are and what you want to become. For example… say you wear a new outfit, and you get weird looks. Honestly embrace it. Feel like a champ. I came home with dark hair the other day, and my dad told me I look like Violet from the Incredibles. Embrace the haters.

Nobody can decide your own happiness except you. If you focus so much of your time on how everyone else sees you, then you begin to forget who you actually are deep down. Self love is such an important thing, but it all stems from doing things that truly make you happy.

Through high school, I realized that self love is more important than the opinions of others.

High school isn’t very long, and you won't be with this same group of people forever. So if you want to laugh with your friends at an ear-breaking level… do it, if it makes you happy. If you want to sit alone and read 250 books during your lunch period… do it. If you want to ride an elephant through the halls on bring-a-zoo-animal-to-school day… do it. The feeling of doing what you want and not caring about people's opinions, is so much more rewarding, than just laying low and not following your passion.

Follow your heart and express your true self 24/7. This world wasn’t meant for a bunch of carbon copies walking around. Variety was created for a reason. It is what keeps everything functioning, and new ideas blossoming. So hiding your authentic self does nothing but constrict your true passion. There are 7.7 billion people on this earth. The opinion of 1 person is more irrelevant than a piece of dust in your attic. It shouldn’t matter. It should just be brushed off and never thought about again.

One of my biggest regrets was wasting away some of my life, being what others wanted me to be, instead of being me and doing what I truly love. So my advice to the underclassmen: Don’t be afraid to do something because of the fear that you will be judged. People are going to judge you no matter what you do, so do it anyway. Lastly I wanted to end with a quote: Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind. Thank you.

A N N I E C A R R When thinking about how to reflect on my four years of high school and share those thoughts with you all, I honestly had no idea where to begin. I sat down and considered this time of my life and came up with multiple ways to go about communicating my experience.

Like any journey, it has been filled with highs, lows, excitement, disappointment, success, failure, and everything in between. In the past 4 years, I have had many things just not go my way, along with some really great things that have happened to me. And what I’ve concluded, is that no matter what stage you are currently experiencing, keep moving forward because it is happening for a reason.

As cliche as that sounds, I believe that every success we obtain, and every hardship we face, guides us in the direction that we are supposed to follow. I’ve learned that being a student at Davidson Day School since freshman year has played a significant role in placing me on my current path. Four years ago, I was sitting in the very back corner of this room listening intently to the seniors reflecting on their time in high school. I wondered when my time would finally come. I’m going to be honest, my freshman self was very convinced that she knew everything, and thought, “What more is there to learn about life than I already do?” Typical early teenager mentality. It sounds so crazy to me now, knowing how wrong I was, and even crazier how I wanted time to go by just a little faster, and rush through this chapter of my life. It's not until you step back and reflect that you see how great things really are right now. I know that we all have things going on in our lives, and sometimes it can be more stressful than we would like, but to be attending this school and having such a great staff and student body supporting us, really is a blessing that I think we sometimes tend to forget. It’s easy to focus on the negatives. No school, no town, no job is going to be perfect.

There will always be things we wish we could change. But we are all so fortunate to have this education here at Davidson Day. There are so many positives that we take for granted daily. I would like to thank my teachers for their thoughtful guidance every day, and my parents for giving me the incredible opportunity to spend my high school years here.

Mom. Thank you for being my true best friend. You are kind, strong, caring, intelligent, and just overall an incredible mom and role model. I’m sorry that I don’t always keep my room clean, “don’t put the lids on things,” and can be a little forgetful at times, but thank you for putting up with that and still loving me unconditionally. I love you so much, and you will be the hardest goodbye for me come time in August.

Dad. You really amaze me. Your hard work, dedication, and love for your family doesn’t go unnoticed, and I’m so proud I get to call you my dad. I don’t know how you do it, but you always know if something is going on in my life and always know exactly what to say, and when to say it. I know I don’t say it enough, but thank you for the life you have given Max, Mom, and me. I love you.

Max. You’re a great brother. Over the years, I’ve realized how much more similar we actually are than different. Being so close in age, you’ve always been like a built in friend for me, and I am so thankful to have you as my sibling and friend.

To the underclassmen. My advice to you is to trust the process, and do so with a positive attitude. The events that happen throughout your life, good or bad, place you in the exact position you need to be in. Believe that there is a purpose behind it. When you choose how to approach events, do so in a way that brings you joy. In just a few years you will be up here, and hopefully not having regrets. What ultimately matters, is how we choose to respond to the good and bad experiences life throws at us. The relationships you create here are so important, and in the end it is our own actions and reactions to people and situations which define us.

Thank you.

C O L E

" T O D D "

H A N S E N Hi, I’m Todd, and I am an addict.

Sitting in those seats for the past three years, I imagined how I would introduce myself but telling everyone I have a drug problem was nowhere on my list. But as I have begun my recovery, I realized that addiction needs to be talked about and not treated as some horrible secret. Addiction is a disease, not a choice, and those still suffering need to know that they are not bad people, but they do have a bad disease that makes them do bad things.

The first time I was called an addict, I was highly offended, since I thought I had my use under control as all of us addicts think we do. I did not want to accept that drugs were not the answer to my problems, and all getting loaded did was put off reality until I came back down. This desire to become totally numb started a cycle of constant use for me, but I saw no problem with being high at everything I went to because “it made me feel better,” but what I was lying to myself about was the fact that I hated myself. I felt drugs were the only way to not care what other people thought and to escape my struggles with depression, and using only made it worse.

This past December, I spent 28 days in Fellowship Hall Rehab and learned to admit I had a problem, and that took time. Recovery doesn’t happen overnight. I tried to leave within the first 30 minutes I was there, because I was so convinced I could do it on my own. But by being around others who had surrendered their will and started to work a 12 step program and live the NA way, I was inspired to do the same. I felt that nobody would understand me, but we addicts aren’t all that different, we all do crazy things and can relate to the struggles of others, and nobody will judge you because there is always someone who has done worse, trust me on this one. Having to come face to face with all of my screwups hurt a lot, and I was full of regret and shame for a long time until I learned how to let go and change my life now because the past already happened.

I guess the point I want to make is that addiction is nothing to be ashamed of, because it isn’t a choice. No matter how many times people hammer that into your brain, addiction really is a disease, it is a chemical imbalance in the brain that nobody chose to have, and it affects everyone differently, but we all share the struggle to get better. If anyone wants to talk or has questions, I would be happy to talk and help in any way I can.

Mrs. Guffey, you have been the best advisor I could have asked for, without you I would have forgotten to do so many things, but because of your dedication to each of your students, we stay on task and get things in on time. You have always shown me the positives even when I can only see the negatives, especially academics-related, and for that I will be forever grateful.

Mr. Laastch and Mr. Simpson, I honestly don’t know how you put up with us on the soccer team, we were definitely not the easiest bunch to coach, but every training day you came with motivation for the team and taught us the grind that brought us to state playoffs that I myself was surprised to be in. I’ll miss going to summer workouts here and playing with the family we created out of our team each year. Davidson Day soccer will always hold a special place in my heart.

To my family, I can’t even begin to say how grateful I am for you. You have been there for me through living hell, and haven’t given up on me, even through relapses and my loss of desire to stay clean, you tell me to keep going and that things will get better if I choose to take the better path. I love you more than words can express.

Wanting to try drugs for whatever reason is normal, but not necessary. Take it from my story and those who have gone through it all, so you don’t have to have a chapter like mine in your lives. Drugs are not cool, and nobody is more powerful than addiction. I always told myself it wasn’t going to be me until it was. If you feel like you won't get addicted or your addiction won't progress, no offense, but grow up and look at reality; using drugs for whatever reason will lead to addiction.

Lastly to those who can’t understand what addiction is like, if someone you love is touched by addiction, please educate yourself so you can help.

Thank you.

H A I L E Y H I G B E A Thank you, Hannah.

Most of the time in life, we are presented with two choices: stay the same or evolve. Evolve means to change, and change will ALWAYS bring opportunity. That doesn’t mean the change will always be what we want, but it will always bring the opportunity to learn and evolve. I came to Davidson Day freshman year from a school that I had been at for 9 years.

Trinity Episcopal School is where I had made all my childhood friendships and where I felt comfortable.

I decided to come to Davidson Day because it seemed the most like Trinity, but it was still a big change. I came into this school knowing no one, but this scary change gave me so many opportunities I never thought I would have.

To my teachers, thank you for helping make the change from Trinity to Davidson Day smoother than I anticipated. It was because of your interest in me becoming the best possible student I can be, that helped me realize change doesn’t always have to be scary.

Thank you all, for giving me opportunities in the classroom that I would not have had anywhere else. You have all changed me as a person, and given me the confidence I needed to be a successful student.

To my family, each of you, in some way, have helped me evolve and change me into who I am today.

Hudson - Thank you for being such a joy in my life. Your crazy self never fails to make me smile, no matter the situation. I’m so thankful for all of our car rides to your practices that have made us so close. I love you.

Hannah - Thank you for being there for me whenever I needed someone to talk to. Even though we fight about the dumbest stuff quite often, I love you so much. I don’t know what I’ll do without you next year being in the room next to me all the time. Thank you for being one of my best friends.

Dad - Thank you for everything you do for our family. You are so supportive of me, Hannah, and Hudson, and I’m so thankful for that. Your love and dedication to all of us means so much to me.

Mom - Thank you for being the most amazing woman in my life. Although we don’t always get along, I wouldn’t be who I am today without your constant love and support. You are the most responsible, hard working, and intelligent person. You have been such a great role model for me, and you have taught me so much. I love y’all.

To the underclassmen, change can be uncomfortable, because it is impossible to know the person you will be after you evolve, but it can be so rewarding. Change is a scary thing for a lot of people. Having to leave something behind that you have always been comfortable with is not easy, but I encourage all of you to take that step out of your comfort zone. You only go through high school once, so look out for all of the opportunities you are being given, even when they are hard to find or make you uncomfortable, and take them. You can stay the same or you can evolve. I suggest you evolve, so you can experience life to the fullest.

Thank you.

E M I L Y H U G H E S Similar to my experience in cross country, I think I can relate it closely to my high school experience. I wouldn’t say running is my life; in fact, I’m pretty average. I used to be pretty bad. I remember my first race at Cannon my freshman year. My time was actually 30 minutes and 9 seconds. The feeling of finishing the race is probably one of the best feelings, and I thought I could relate it exactly to my time here.

As a senior here at Davidson Day, with only a few months left, I am basically in the final stretch. The final mile.

If you don’t run cross country, I will explain it to you: You start off at the sound of a gun, and you are off, just like that. You are surrounded by people you don’t know (just like starting at a new school). However, you all have one common goal: finish the race.

Some people--including me--walk, throw up, injure themselves… Races have hills, people that elbow you in the chest, and sometimes you find yourself running during rain storms and struggling to push through.

My freshman year, when I ran that 30 minute and 9 second time, I was surrounding myself with all these negative thoughts and found myself second guessing myself. I never realized that was exactly what was slowing me down.

Thanks to teachers like Mrs. Guffey and Mrs. Brown this year, I have found a love for subjects I never thought I would ever enjoy. They are so cool, mindful, patient, and kind.

Actually, all my teachers here at Davidson Day have supported me and have always been welcoming and considerate when I ask for help. I remember running for Student Government and Honor Council. I never got a position until this year. So thank you, Dr. Ehlers, for encouraging me to keep on “running.” I know I can’t get that motivation from teachers anywhere else but here. It is what makes Davidson Day so special.

Sometimes school (and cross country) can be unbearably difficult. But what I’ve learned is: it’s what you make it. Thanks to these people I have found encouragement and excitement during each of my years here...

Mr. Saunders, thank you for creating the best memories. I never had travelled outside of the US until I became a part of the AFAR program. It has given me so many wonderful opportunities. I can’t thank you enough for your humor and generosity.

Mr. Freidline, you have always believed in my abilities, and you have urged me to continue to play guitar. You have helped me grow so much, and it means the world to me. I’m so lucky that you are my teacher.

And of course, Ms. Milligan, you are the best advisor. You can come visit me whenever you want next year.

Thank you guys for making me realize that high school is more than just taking notes. It is about blossoming into the person you want to be.

As I have improved as a student and as a runner, this final year has sped by, and I cannot believe I’m already standing here reflecting on my years of high school. I can’t go without thanking my Mom, Dad, and Nathan.

Mom & Dad: you are the best parents I could ever ask for. You are so supportive of whatever I do, like when I decided I wanted to play soccer last year. Dad, you came to every game even though I sat on the bench, and you played soccer with me on the weekends to help me improve. I still suck at it, but thank you for being the best dad ever. Mom, every little thing you do is for me and Nathan. You are so smart and funny and unbelievably caring.

You literally started a school for Nathan and me. You are so amazing. Nathan: You are my best friend. I actually don’t know what I am going to do next year without you, and I can’t wait to see what you do. Mom, Dad, and Nate, I love you all so much.

Finally, Mr. Hall and Mrs. Shelley. You both are the inspiration for this speech. You have shown me what it is to be a real winner and leader. I will never forget my experiences and accomplishments during cross country and I will NEVER forget the last day at Brevard when I ran with Mrs. Shelley and thought I was actually going to die. Again, thank you both for inspiring me to improve as an athlete and a person.

And for the Class of 2020, we are almost to the finish line. With all our highs and lows, we are all concluding our time here. I will leave with a quote I found on Google, “Forget the miles, but remember the glory.”

Thank you.

N A T H A N H U G H E S Thank you, Bennett, for the introduction. If you know me well, you know that I love movies.

I’ve spent hours of my life analyzing films and writing about them. So instead of writing a regular speech, I decided to think of my life as a coming-of-age film and share with you a film review on the movie that is my life.

Nathan Hughes makes his acting and directorial debut in this cinematic saga of a young man and his passion for film. The film opens with a shot of a toddler in a surprisingly tidy room opening a book called The History of Moviemaking. The camera zooms into his eyes, mirroring the vibrant images on the page including the works of Charlie Chaplin, pictures of drive-in movie theaters, and Georges MÊliès's A Trip to the Moon. His eyes widen and gleam with every page turn. The quiet sequence displays a sense of passion, but a passion not yet fully realized.

Hughes's vivid self-portrait is structured by two relatable themes: passion and dedication.

Despite a slow start in which we observe Nathan shaped by the typical American childhood, the storyline quickly picks up as he reaches adolescence and begins to define his identity.

After he watches Martin Scorsese's Hugo in middle school, Nathan's love for film emerges.

Hugo sparks Nathan's curiosity, and he devours anything that highlights the history and magic of moviemaking. As we see Nathan mesmerized by Hugo's character, we witness a parallel in characterization: two young men, equally driven by the art of cinema, equally challenged to explore and create.

While one might presume that Nathan's journey would be isolated, a young boy alone in a dark theater, instead, we witness a truly connected spirit. It is because of film that Nathan builds strong bonds with others. In one scene, set in a classroom, Nathan uses his love of entertainment and gentle wit to ease a fellow new student's struggle to fit in. Nathan's banter with the classmate is consistent with the easy-going character he demonstrates throughout the movie. You see his desire to explore all aspects of film for a deeper purpose: to understand what makes films culturally impactful and how they bring people together.

Nathan's easy-going character is also evident when, to further understand all aspects of film-making, he pursues the dramatic arts himself. As a thespian, he carefully observes his fellow actors, absorbing their techniques, channeling their theatrical insights. While taking the role of performer rather than “watcher� enables Nathan to examine theater/film as an insider, it more importantly affords him an environment to make connections with others who share his passion. Even audiences who have no experience with theater, can relate to scenes depicting long hours of trying rehearsals lightened by laughter and long-lasting friendships.

In the film's final act, a sense of inevitable uncertainty looms, leaving the audience dangling... satisfied by a young life fulfilled, yet wondering what the next chapter of Nathan's journey will reveal. Despite our ambiguity, we know that Nathan will continue to develop his passion, hone his skills, and deepen his relationships as he embarks on a new adventure in a collegiate community where he can connect and bond with individuals who share his interests and challenge his perspective. We know that he is headed in the right direction and will find his next right fit place.

It's a must see.

C J H U N T L E Y In case you were wondering, because most people do…I am 6’10”, I wear a size 18 shoe, I play basketball, and yes, I can even dunk.

Now that we have that out of the way, I can get on with my speech. Perhaps if we changed the way we looked at things, the things we look at would change. When I was born, I weighed a little over 3 and ½ pounds. Someone’s perception then when they saw me could have been that I wouldn’t grow up to be strong and athletic. Most people’s perception now, is that I play basketball. While that perception IS correct, I don’t want that to be the only thing people remember about me just because that is their perception when they see me. I hope they see the selfless, funny, and kind person I see when I look in the mirror.

Perception can sometimes be accurate, and perception can sometimes be inaccurate.

There are too many negative things in today’s world. Too much hate and too much prejudice toward ALL walks of life. Maybe, just maybe, some of it is due to how we perceive things.

Coach Johnson, I don’t know how you perceived me when we first met. I hope it was positive, but if not, I hope I have made you change your perception. I want to thank you for your time and dedication to helping me improve my game on the court. Your coaching didn’t stop after we walked out of the gym. You have coached me to become the man I am today. Thank you for that!

My boys, my team, my fellow state champions! We made history! You trusted me on the court, you brought out my personality off the court, and you have become my brothers.

Each of you have played such an important role in my life that there are no words to express my appreciation. Just know that I will always consider you my brothers.

Ms. Milligan, you’ve kept me on track and out of trouble. I thank you for that and my parents thank you even more.

Teachers, I’d like to thank all of the teachers I have had at Davidson Day. You are truly what makes this place special.This chapter in my life is soon coming to an end, and I will begin a new chapter at Appalachian State. There are three people that I couldn’t ever thank enough for helping me write and continue to write the chapters of my life.

Mom, you work a full time job all while keeping me on track, sacrificing your time, energy, and money to get me the things I needed to achieve my goals. You made time to cheer me on and be at my games, volunteer at school, and be there for me when I came home from games. Never will you know how much I love you.

Dad, you introduced the game of basketball to me when I was 6. Ever since then you’ve been by my side…teaching, pushing, and loving me along the way. I hope I can be the man you are one day.

Cierra, I’m lucky I was given a permanent best friend the day we were born. You will always be my best friend. I admire your hard work and skill. It has served you well and will continue to do so when you dominate at Virginia Tech. I can’t wait to see you play.

I would like to close with a quote by Roy T. Bennett about perception: “The outer world is a reflection of the inner world. Other people’s perception of you is a reflection of them; your response to them is an awareness of you.”

Thank you!

C I E R R A H U N T L E Y Thank you, Gerren. As you all know, I am Cierra. Also known as the more funny and more athletic Huntley twin.

A goal is just a nice idea until you take action.

I was 8 years old when I was introduced to the game of volleyball. I was still in dance and gymnastics at the time, but my mom thought since I couldn’t get my back handspring, it might be a good time to look at another sport, so she took me out of gymnastics. (And I still cannot do a back handspring to this day.)

When I was 10 years old, I made a club team, and it was then that I decided volleyball was for me. The next year would be when I decided to set the goal to follow in my mom’s footsteps and play volleyball in college. Now it was time to take action and reach my goal.

When I was 11, I attended a camp at UNC and was the youngest kid there. There was a Carolina player there that I idolized named Chanel Nelson. I will NEVER forget she told me I HAD to keep playing. I took her advice and determined I would do what it took to play the sport I loved in college.

It is impossible to grow and be successful alone. There are relationships @ DDS that helped me take action to reach my goal.

Cat Fulton has pushed me for 4 years to be a better athlete, student, and leader on and off the court. I knew when I heard her say those two unforgettable words, it meant we were out the door to run… "SEE YA!!" Even on the first day of school when SOMEONE had a dress code violation. She has helped me through tough practices and games. From those losses and tough practices it was then that she taught me the most. The volleyball program at DDS speaks for itself, and it wouldn’t be what it is if it were not for Coach Cat. My Davidson Day Volleyball Girls, you have helped me learn to work as a team and be a leader. This fall we all had the same goal in mind: winning the state championship. I learned from you guys that when everyone works together, supports each other ,and stays focused on the same goal, anything can be done. We did it!!! Girls, I hope you know I was your biggest fan the entire time! And sorry about the dress code violation on the first day of school!

Some of you may not know this, but Ms. Milligan has been my and CJ’s school mom since we got to Davidson Day. She always supported us by keeping us in check, showing up to our games, and most importantly when my mom was nervous about our class trip our 9th grade year, Ms. Milligan made her feel confident that we were going to be ok, and she’d take care of us. I knew then, she was going to be our mom away from our mom!

Mrs. Guffey’s guidance as my advisor has been incredibly important in my 4 years here. No one teaches aqua zumba better than Mrs. Guffey! I’m sorry I didn’t actually participate in aqua zumba with all my classmates in Charleston, but you know I was not trying to get my hair wet (: It is hard to believe I was really nervous coming into DDS my freshman year. I spent that year trying to get to know people and find my place. It was my sophomore year that I found a group of friends that really welcomed me into their lives and supported me and my goals.

They understood when I couldn’t go somewhere, because I had a tournament the next day, or if I was always out of town on the weekend, because I was traveling with volleyball. But I would show up to school the next Monday and they were right there. They were my loudest cheerleaders. Davidson Day creates a sense of community. I don’t know if it is the really small size or just the amazing staff and student body, but regardless, it has made me feel like I belong and shown me how important it is to surround yourself with people who have your best interest at heart.

The definition of gratitude is: a strong feeling of appreciation to someone or something for what the person has done to help you. I have to extend gratitude to the three most important people in my life. I would be nowhere without them.

Mom, you are the sister I always wanted. Driving me to all my practices and tournaments, making sure I had everything I needed to be successful in reaching my goal. You always understood any challenge I ever had and celebrated any victory, no matter how big or how small. Your dedication, sacrifices, and encouragement are things I will never be able to thank you enough for. I love you, and I know I am your favorite child.

Dad, our goofing around, you pushing me to me my best, and our pregame ritual means the world to me. No one is as lucky as I am to always have someone like you pulling for me every single step. I love you, and I know I am your favorite child.

CJ, I will never be able to explain what it meant to me to have you cheering for me at my games. It will be weird not having my big…literally…BIG…brother around all the time.

However, one thing I will not miss will be people asking you when we are out in public together: “How tall are you? Do you play basketball? Can you dunk? What size shoe do you wear?" Blah Blah Blah! Like they literally think you are a celebrity, and meanwhile, I am

over there like, “Hello??? What about me???" I know you will do great things at App, and I can’t wait to watch you during my off season. I love you, and I know you are ok with me being mom and dad’s favorite.

I am extremely grateful to have the three of you in my life and couldn’t have asked for a better family to grow up in.

I’d like to close with some words that I hope all of you will think about when you set a goal in your life.

You can’t just love the final product, the goal or the end result. You can’t just love the idea of something you want.You have to LOVE the PROCESS you have to go through to reach that goal. That doesn’t mean the process will be perfect or painless. That doesn’t mean everything will be fun all the time. But there has to be something you learn about those imperfect and painful moments that you enjoy enough to keep pushing toward your goal.

That process is what makes you appreciate the achievement even more.

I S A B E L L A M A L I C K Up until I was about six years old, my dad would read one of his favorite books to me and my sisters before we would go to bed. The book was “Oh The Places You'll Go” by Dr. Seuss. It says: Congratulations!

Today is your day.

You're off to Great Places!

You're off and away!

You have brains in your head.

You have feet in your shoes.

You can steer yourself any direction you choose.

OH! THE PLACES YOU'LL GO! At the time, I would sit there bored at this repetitive story, without comprehending the meaning. When it was over my dad would sit and tell us, “Your possibilities are limitless, so change the world!” It was only until recently that I reflected back to this book and realized it's some of the best advice I could be given. Because it's true, we have been handed everything we need in order to do whatever we set our minds to. I want to thank some of the people who have been there alongside me through every direction I've chosen to go.

First, I want to thank all of my teachers for giving their all in the classroom in order for me to succeed in the future. The connections and relationships I've made with some of you, are why coming to Davidson Day was undeniably a great decision. Each and every one of you has given me the tools and resources to learn how to learn, and I thank you for that.

Next, I want to thank Ms. Milligan. Words can't explain how appreciative and lucky I am to have you in my life. Ever since freshman year, you've dropped everything in order to support and be there for me when I need it most. From checking up on me when I'm sick at home, to always being there when I'm having a bad day, wearing my name on your back while biking for MS, to waking up at six am on a Saturday morning to track me running in Chicago, I truly can't thank you enough for everything you have done for me and my family.

You have made one of the biggest impacts on me throughout my years here.

To Analise, you have this love for life and passion that I have never seen in anyone before.

You inspire me to reach as high as I can to achieve my goals, and show me by doing it yourself every day. I have no doubt in my mind that you are going to be successful and live a life people dream of. Whenever I'm around you or honestly anyone is around you, it's impossible not to be happy and have fun. You are my number one supporter, and although it can drive me insane, I know I can always count on you for anything.

To Genevieve, never in a million years would I have thought we were going to grow as close as we are today. Out of everyone in the world, you may possibly be one of the only people who can predict my every move. Thank you for always putting me in my place, and pushing me to be my best self. I love watching you grow into the strong, happy girl you are today and am so excited to see what your next chapter holds. I want you to know how incredibly proud I am of everything you do.

To my parents, Modge and Podge, I want to thank you for all of the opportunities you have given me, they don't go unnoticed. From doing what you always think is best for me, providing me with an education, spending endless hours traveling with me to find the best doctors, feeding my addiction of traveling the world by taking me along on some your vacations, supporting my crazy decisions to run a marathon, go paragliding, swim with the whale sharks in Tulum, the list is endless. You have always found a way to make my goals and dreams possible, and that is potentially the best gift you could ever give me.

My advice to you all is to stop limiting yourselves. You can go in any direction you chose, and the only thing holding you back is your excuses. I have a list of difficulties in my life I could tell you right now that could be used to hinder my successes, but instead of pitying myself, I chose to use them as motivation to achieve my goals, and plan for the next ones.

I S A B E L L A M A S C O R R O Thank you, Sydney (: Music tells the story of a girl. She’s a musician who expresses her emotions through rhythm. A writer who finds herself through experiences. An artist who paints the crashes and tranquility of waves. She’s an adventurer, who’s curious about who she could be and how she can make a difference. She’s a lover who fights and doesn’t give up. The best way for me to tell this story is through music, so I would like to share my mixtape with songs that I feel define my life.

“This Is Where I Belong” from the movie Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron, closely resembles the theme song of my childhood. Towards the end of the song, Bryan Adams sings, “And wherever I wander, the one thing I’ve learned, it's here, I will always, return." Like Spirit, I’ve always lived freely and want to live every day like an adventure. When I lived in Texas, days were spent under the bright stars and beneath sunsets, where I rode my bike, climbed trees, made hideouts, and ran around with the friends I knew for years. And yet, at 18 years old, I don’t feel like any of that has changed about me.

Even when I moved away, after four years, my best friends and I still laugh about all the good times we’ve had together. We had made a promise to stay close, no matter the distance. “Hold My Hand” by Akon and Michael Jackson reminds me of our friendship.

With time, I created many friendships at Davidson Day that I hold close to my heart. I never would have discovered my deepest passion for music and theater if I hadn’t faced my fear of change. There are many people I want to thank that have impacted my life immensely.

Mrs. Guffey, it’s crazy that you have been my advisor these past four years. I am very blessed to have had you as my math teacher. Your laugh is contagious, and even if I was at the end of the hallway, I could always recognize that it was yours. Thank you for bringing joy and kindness to my life. I’ll miss you. "Uptown Funk" by Bruno Mars will always remind me of your dancing.

Coach Fulton, I’m honored to have been a varsity volleyball player on your team. You showed me diligence, responsibility, leadership, and what it means to be a teammate. I’m glad to have known you all these years, and to have shared moments with you at games, practices, and our trips to Sunset Beach and VT. The happiest memory with you was

sharing the state championship win with you and my teammates. "The Show Goes On" by Lupe Fiasco always got me pumped up for a game and reminds me of you.

Mr. Saunders, thank you for all of the memories we made on the AFAR project in Spain.

Your music taste is amazing. I’ll never forget performing "We Will Rock You" and playing drums in Zorita. Your sense of humor and chill style is immaculate. Never stop being the epitome of fun. "Beast of Burden" by The Rolling Stones reminds me of you.

Mrs. Brown, you are an inspiration to me, and you influenced my passion for science. I’ll never forget making inside jokes like Lil’ G Cap, talking about Fantastic Mr. Fox, music, and most of all being your student in biology. Your love of nature and genuine personality are infectious. I hope one day I can pursue a career in the medical field. Also thank you for always dancing with me at prom, THAT WAS A BLAST. And of course, "Purple Rain" by Prince reminds me of you.

Mr. McGill, from the time that I met you my freshman year, I knew we had a connection.

You and I have an unbreakable friendship that I hope will last a lifetime. Your philosophical nature and dynamic personality is truly wonderful. You have been such a great friend and mentor, and I’m so glad to have shared moments and conversations with you in independent study. I am truly grateful to call you my friend. WHERE MY HOMIE. The song that will always remind me of you is "Sittin’ On the Dock of the Bay" by Otis Redding.

Ms. Gerdy, after being in the ensemble of Bonnie & Clyde and performing at The Blumeys, I knew that I had found a love for theater. We Will Rock You, Thebes, Sister Act, Amelie, The Bardy Bunch, Snake In the Grass are shows that I think about all the time. I have so many memories in the theater, but being Sherrie Christian in Rock of Ages will always be a fond memory and that was a dream come true. Being onstage is a surreal feeling, and I will always remember that. Thank you for being such a great director, and for motivating me to reach my potential. "I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing" by Aerosmith reminds me of theater and of you.

Mr. Freidline, performing with you in theater and in contemporary ensemble has been a pleasure. You have influenced me to continue playing and writing songs. Your humor and extroverted personality always lifts me up. Thank you for believing in me. "Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You" by Frankie Valli reminds me of you.

Mr. Smith, I’m so glad I took guitar lessons with you, and got to know your family. MooMoo and Finn are the greatest buddies I made, along with Parker and Cole. I’m glad to have known you, and we still have to have a gig together. "Slow Dancing in A Burning Room" by John Mayer reminds me of you.

Mrs. Taylor, thank you for welcoming me to Davidson Day with open arms. You have had a great impact on my life and encouraged me to work hard and to always be myself. I will miss greeting you in your office. "Take It Easy" by The Eagles reminds me of you.

Mom and Dad, I am so blessed to have parents like you. We have a bond, and we are pretty much exactly the same. I definitely get my courage, empathy, and loving personality from both of you. You exposed me to all types of music, and I am beyond grateful for that. I will always remember our inside jokes, quoting movie lines, and singing in the car. I will miss you when I leave for college, but I am happy we will all be in Texas. And I’ll always be your little girl and I’ll visit often. Mom, "Here I Go Again" by Whitesnake always reminds me of you. Dad, "Wagon Wheel" will always remind me of you. I love you both (: Christian, you really are the best brother I could ask for. I have loved all the times we have traveled together and our brother-sister relationship. I am so proud of everything you have accomplished and I can’t wait to see what you do in the future. Thanks for being my number one fan. "Still Beating" by Mac Demarco reminds me of you. I love you.

Grandma Trene, it makes me happy to see you each morning, and I always think about when I would stay at your house with Grandpa Daniel and Momo. We have spent lots of time together, and I hope we make many more memories. "Como la Flor" by Selena reminds me of you. Te amo.

This is not how the Class of 2020 expected to spend the rest of our senior year. It’s not what anyone expected, and no one deserves the distress that is affecting every person on the planet. Reflection is a way of remembrance, celebration, and appreciation. The world has changed drastically from this pandemic crisis. For our own safety, we remain in quarantine. I pray and give empathy to all of those who are suffering from a loss. We remain in isolation, but for humanity, we are unified. To all of my friends, our theme song is "Don’t Stop Believing" by Journey.

In the fall, I will be attending Baylor University, where a new adventure will begin. If I have learned anything, it’s to always be yourself. Never look for anyone's approval. I realized that my qualities are unique to my own soul. I started living everyday full of gratitude, excitement, and eagerness. Love with all of your heart and don’t waste time on things that don’t matter. Life is too short to not be happy. I’ll march to the beat of my own drum, to "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" by Tears For Fears, and will continue writing the song of my life.

If we have learned anything this year, it’s that we should not take life for granted. I hope that you will go out and make your mark in this world. Follow your heart, and live like there’s no tomorrow.

T Y R A R U B I N I used to think I should live on an island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. I know, it’s dramatic. The Atlantic separates my birthplace, South Africa, from the United States, my home since I was ten years old. I had romanticized living in America for most of my life.

After years of waiting for approval, everything I had fantasized about was becoming reality: going to school in the “land of opportunities,” with a white picket fence neatly bordering our yard. However, at ten years old, I did not fully realize the cultural differences and adjustments I would face. I remember spending many nights awake and anxious that first year in the U.S., because I feared what might happen if we did not have burglar bars on all of our windows or an eight-foot wall encompassing our home, as we did in South Africa. I often felt overwhelmed by the newfound freedom and safety my family now had. This was what my parents had been pursuing all along: the freedom of feeling safe in our own home, the fundamental right to speak our minds, and the knowledge that laws are justly enforced.

These freedoms were enormous changes in my parents’ lives as well as my own. But freedom has different meanings for different people. My parents were looking for the freedom of basic rights, and because they were able to give those opportunities to me, I was able to eventually discover my own meaning of the word.

Over the last eight years, I have acclimated and persisted through the adversity of adjustment. At first, I struggled to close the education gap that came from different schooling methods, and tried to understand cultural norms that I was not accustomed to. Yet although I eventually became well adapted to my new environment, I still found myself feeling like I didn’t belong. I wasn’t American, but I didn’t feel completely South African anymore. I was hanging on to my South African identity while trying to establish my American one. I felt like an imposter when trying to identify with either place. I saw my South African friends growing up in a different culture, and I began to feel like I was “too American” to belong there anymore. But I was likewise “too South African” to belong in the U.S. I felt jealous of my friends who had just one identity. At times, I really did feel like the only place I would belong was an island in the Atlantic, because it was the perfect geographic compromise.

In 2017, we became citizens of the United States. The naturalization process transformed my feelings about where I belonged – but not in the way you might expect. I was now officially American, but I did not feel any more sense of belonging than I had before.

Somehow, I thought it might be like the magical transformation scene in the first “Shrek” movie, where Fiona glows as she is lifted into a rotating, sparkly orb and is amazingly

transformed. I would just “become” American. Instead, the swearing-in ceremony was held in a DMV-like office building. My status on paper changed, but nothing else did. Yet my disappointment sparked a realization: I was more than “American” or “South African.” And with that realization, I was free to focus on other things that define me like my nineties influenced style, my love for creating and for the environment, and my ability to adapt. I can belong anywhere because I have accepted my own internal discord: that my identity is a constantly evolving thing. I have lived on my imaginary island in the Atlantic, but I now live in the real world, where my identity doesn’t depend on where I am from and I am allowed to be South African and American. I now know that my identity depends on my freedom to transcend my personal divides.

Attending Davidson Day has greatly facilitated my growth as a person over the last four years, because it has given me an environment to express myself and to just be me.

I want to thank my parents for giving me the freedom to create my own opportunities by moving to the United States. It was the best decision and greatest sacrifice they ever made…. and they couldn’t have accomplished this without the help of my wonderful grandparents. Moving here has completely changed mine and Noah’s futures. I am so proud of them and Noah. I can’t wait to see what amazing things Noah will do during his time at Davidson Day. For my advice to the underclassmen: Learning and evolving never really ends, so try to be kind and patient with yourself always.

A J S A K S So you’re probably wondering why I have gathered all of you here today…. Some of you may think it is to give my senior speech. You would be correct. Most of you don’t know me too well because I usually keep to myself, but for those who do know me, know that I love skiing. It is one of my favorite pastimes, because I love the freedom that I feel when I’m going down the mountain as fast as I can. There is nothing like it for me, but something that I have realized lately is that for me, high school is a lot like a ski day. If you have ever been skiing, then you know that you will spend an entire day “skiing,” but you only spend about an hour or two going down the slopes. The other time is spent waiting in lift lines, walking to the lodge, moving your skis, or driving to and from the mountain. These are the slow parts of the day and are often the most boring time when you are skiing. However, when you go skiing with the people that you enjoy being around, that time is much more enjoyable. School is very similar to this, in that there are long parts of the day that are not interesting and can be very boring, but if you find the right people, then the days become easier to manage. Some of the people who made the slow parts of my day better are my teachers. Mr. Laatsch, Mrs. Brown, Mrs. Cadilla, and Mr. Blake: you all opened my mind to the world of science and math and how it is everywhere and in everything we do. Because of your careful teaching, I’m now considering going into a career in STEM. But then there is the fun part of the ski day. This is the time that you will spend actually going down the mountain. Finding the people that make the best parts of your day even better is something that I have taken for granted.

My best friends Ethan and Logan. Some of you might remember Ethan Spraberry from when he was here in my freshman and sophomore year. When you were here, we were inseparable, and I remember all of the classes that you and I suffered through. Most of all I miss seeing you every day in school, but I know that you did incredible things at the School of Math and Science, and I wish you luck next year in college at UNCC. Then there is Logan Hosch, almost none of you will know Logan as he attends Statesville Christian. But over the seven years that I have known him, he has always been there for an hour-long phone call about life or playing games till three o’clock in the morning. I will miss seeing you every weekend when we go to college, but I know that we will always stay in touch no matter where we are in the country. You will always be my donut loving, Lucky Logan, best friend.

Then there is the last thing that you will do on a ski day. This is when you go back to your cabin and relax with your family. This is the time that my family and I prefer to go into the hot tub and talk about anything and everything. This is the point that I am at in my high school career. I have been accepted to great colleges, and I am excited about finishing my last semester at Davidson Day. My brother, Dylan AKA Dyl AKA Dyl pickle AKA Tanner AKA Little Saks AKA the family bachelor, I don’t know where to start with you. You have been my best friend for my entire life, and sometimes it felt like you were my only friend. You were always there for me and I appreciate you lifting me up when I’m down. Although we did not always get along, I will always remember all the midnight Waffle House runs, the games we played, the hours we have spent strategizing over all the games that we share a passion for, and most importantly that time that you made our family miss our flight and wait in the airport for three hours, all because you refused to throw out your chocolate milk in the security line.

Maddy, even though you are not here today because you are at Boston College, I have always looked up to as a role model. Especially when it comes to school and studying. You inspire me to be a better student. And you are the best sister I have ever had, and the only one!

Dad, you truly inspire me to be the best version of myself. You work so hard for me and my siblings, and you allow me to be able to go to Davidson Day. You have shown me what it means to be an honest man making a living in the world, and I will miss all of the jokes that you ostensibly think are funny when I go away to college next year. I hope you appreciated my intro, and I love you, Dad. Mom, I don’t remember, but back when I was still in elementary school back when we lived in Maine, you would come into my room every night to read me a story or play a game with me, and I loved spending that time with you, but that was not my favorite part. For me, it was at the end when you would tuck me in and you would tell me that love me this much, then me being the competitive kid I would say, well I love you this much, to which you would reply, but I love you to the moon. Then I say I love you to the moon and back. Then you would say, well then I love you to the sun and back, and then I would promptly say I love you to the sun and back times two. This would continue for about five minutes until we both gave up. Thank you so much for everything that you have ever done for me, and I just want you to know that I truly do love you to the moon and back.

M A K A Y L A T E J E D A When I was eight, my Mom-Mom, my Pop-Pop, and I took our summer trip to my great grandparent’s house. Every time we would visit, my Grandpapa would always tell me how big I was and then ask me what grade was in. I would answer and then we would move on to the next question. However, this time, he asked me the same question five minutes later.

Confused, I answered. Three minutes after that, he asked the same question again. My great-grandmother turned to him and said, "Eddie Ray, she's in the second grade," then looked at me and we laughed. He proceeded to get the deck of cards, shuffle them, and ask me if I knew how to play Go Fish like he always would. At the time, I did not realize that anything was wrong.

In honor of my Great Grandfather, my senior speech is going to be one big game of Go Fish. Each person I will mention matches with a card which will create a pair.

Number Three: Debbie Taylor and Family The first card I will ask for is number three. The person who matches this card is sis or as many of you may know her as Mrs. Taylor. She was the first person who visited me in the hospital straight after my surgery with a cheesecake in hand, the person who made dinner for the team and me before letting us use her pool as an ice bath, the person who introduced me to pharmacy and to my favorite pharmacist, her daughter Erin Taylor, the person whose family treats me as one of their own, and even the person who pulled out my stitches after my doctor gave her permission to. After the coaching change, I was dead set on leaving Davidson Day. When I told her, she asked me to give her one day to change my mind. The next day, she handed me a Pros and Cons list she constructed herself. With the first pro as “Mrs. Taylor” along with many other reasons as well. That simple gesture truly showed that she cares about her students, so I stayed. And was it a mistake? Debatable. I will forever be appreciative of her making Davidson Day so much easier to attend, probably because I live in her office and have a secret drawer. Thank you for all that you do sis.

Number Eight: G, Harmon, and Love I will now ask for number eight. This card matches with the three women who molded me into the person I was before I entered Davidson Day. They are the three women who have also continued to be supportive of me throughout high school as well.

Harmon: Hey Girl, Hey! You taught me love is more powerful than hate and that surrounding yourself with positive energy will bring you way more success in life than negativity ever could. Your smile and big hugs have always assured me that any situation will be just fine, and as long as I stay positive, my life will be too. Love you long time.

G: Tough, scary, and mean was the vibe I got from you the first time we met, but in reality, you’re just a big teddy bear. Thank you for always pushing me to be a better me and never failing to remind me that I should transfer to Hopewell. G, you aren’t afraid to stand out from the crowd, speak your mind, and put yourself out there. You are confident in yourself, and that is the most important thing for anyone. You always try to be your best self, so now I will always try to be my best self. Love you long time.

Love: MFPITW. Look Love I’m a senior. Can you believe it? You taught me the importance of learning from any experience; good or bad. It’s ok to make mistakes as long as you learn from them and grow. You taught me the importance of being authentic and true to myself, regardless of what other people might have planned for me. It’s ok to change paths and do something nobody expects as long as you are staying true to yourself. I want to thank you for always being there for me. By simply living your life, you have forever changed mine.

Thank you for being you, so that I could be me. I love you always.

Joker: The Basketball Team (Past and Present), Coach Lafave, and Coach Al To the card you usually throw out before you play a game, but sometimes you keep them in for a fun time. I’m asking for my jokers.

Basketball Team (past and present): We’ve accomplished some crazy things through the years. Sometimes we weren’t supported or cheered for by many. However, time and time again we were able to prove to not only others but to ourselves who we were. We were able to prove that we could win the first state championship for the basketball program at Davidson Day (men or women) in 2019, and we were able to do it again in 2020. Also, we able to bring home the first Charlotte Observer sweet sixteen championship banner for the basketball program in 2019 as well; a task that many public or private schools across the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area fail to do. I want to thank all my teammates past and present for being my family and sticking together no matter the situation. Thank you all for making me the leader and the person I am today.

Coach Al: Even though I give you a hard time every time I see you, I occasionally enjoy your presence. Thank you for strengthening my leadership skills and helping me regain my confidence. I hope you enjoy your pinky championship ring as much as you claim you will.

Coach Lafave: My high school coach of three years. I truly respect you. Even though when I first met you I wasn’t too sure about you and I thought you were really awkward, you are truly an admirable man. My senior year of Davidson Day Basketball was nothing anyone expected, but for you to come to my senior night, support me, and even stay after to take a picture with me is something I will never forget. Thank you for all you have done for me.

Now I will get to my Royal Cards...

King: Charese Charese, I have always believed that people are placed in your life for a reason, and sometimes you don't expect that a random emotionless person who drives you home after practice, to be your person. You are truly one of a kind. I couldn't imagine life without you.

Even though I really don't know how I ended up in your life in the first place. I definitely consider myself one of the luckiest people in the world because of your presence in not only my life but my family’s life as well. Or I should say our family because you are a part of my family. You encouraged me to keep reaching for the unreachable and never settle for anything less than I deserve. No matter how many things I put into the “fantasy bucket,” you always tell me to go for it. As I’ve gotten older, I realize more and more how much you have done for me and continue to do every day. Peaches, I can’t wait for the day we write our book series, fill up all the states on our Christmas ornament, jam out to the “Thong Song” and “Gimme the Loot” in front of our kids, and live on our compound of course.

Thank you for being one of my greatest role models. You’re stuck with me for life. I will love you forever and always.

Ace: Family The Ace matches with my family.

Michael: Even though you’re going through puberty and starting to get that Bryce Alfino light skin magic, I do love you. Sorry for dressing you up in heels and wigs when you were younger, because I wanted a sister. And I am sorry for telling Charese that you’re in love with her, because you like it when she comments on your Durags. Even though I give you such a hard time about everything, you are pretty great. Your determination when you put your mind to something is an admirable trait I have always envied. If you keep making smart decisions and do what you think is right, your determination will take you a long way.

Mikey, keep being who you want to be and not who another wants you to be. I’ll keep bothering you from afar, so prepare yourself for that. I love you.

Kimberlia: Always remember that you’re my favorite. I am starting to realize that life will be different for us soon. I know that you are not ready for me to leave. As you grow up these next few years without me I want you to know that time is very important. I want you to know that I will grant you all the time you need from me, no matter the circumstance. I waited patiently for ten years for you, and now that you are here, I could never imagine my life without you. You have pushed me to be the best role model for you, and already you have turned out so much better than me in so many aspects, for which I am so proud. I love you.

Dad: My TSA officer, my big mean Mexican man, my dad. Thank you for always making your aspirations for our family come true. Starting a family at twenty and being able to accomplish the things you have for your family is truly remarkable. I will forever be grateful to you. I remember when you first got transferred to Charlotte and would drive back to Maryland every weekend for months, because it killed you being apart from us, but you had to do it because you knew this is where we were meant to be. You have bestowed in me that you have to follow your heart even when the odds are against you, because you always have. Even though you didn’t have a father during your childhood, you grew up to be the best father anyone could have. I love you so much.

Mom: Thank you. I cannot think of more appropriate words to say besides those two simple, yet powerful ones. You are deserving of gratitude every single day for the way you raised your family. Today and every day I am truly blessed for the gift you are, as a mother and a hero. Many people never get to meet the person they look up to, but I was fortunate enough to be raised by mine. As I’ve grown older, I’ve become aware of just how much you sacrificed for me over the years. You have always seemed to make the impossible possible for me. You are, without a doubt, the most incredible person I know, and being your daughter is an honor I will never be deserving of. I hope to make you as proud of me as I am of you every day. Thank you for being the woman God made you be, for she is also everything I aspire to be. I love you.

Eleven days before my sixteenth birthday, my great-grandfather passed away from complications with dementia. I did not learn about my Grandpapa’s illness until after he passed. I have always had a passion for medicine, but since his passing, that passion has grown. Currently, there is no known cure for dementia. However, the power of drugs and how they can enhance the human condition is truly remarkable. I aspire to make a positive impact on the lives of everyday people and hope to make my Grandpapa proud by helping others avoid the pain that he and I endured while he was battling dementia.

I say all this to say, use your experiences, good or bad, to make a big impact. And I am not just talking about an impact on yourself or on your peers. Make an impact on everyone.

Strive to do big things in this world. Never settle. In the moment you may find yourself asking, “why” or “what did I do to deserve this” but just know that there is a purpose, there is a reason, there is a blessing or many blessings in store for you that are coming your way. And then you’ll know exactly why. Take your experiences and make an impact on this world.

Thank you.

C H R I S T O P H E R

" K I K O "

W I L L I A M S I would like to begin my remarks by thanking my girlfriend, whose nonexistence in my life has motivated me to achieve my full potential in all capacities. This also applies to my parents (the motivation component, not the nonexistence part). Nothing I could deliver in this speech would be enough to thank them for their support and sacrifice all my life, but I assert to you all that I am forever grateful for my Mafia Boss Italian mother, and my father, who while I think has sufficient biceps, my sister thinks he looks like the Rock without the muscles.

While being the most attractive person to ever attend Davidson Day School has been a memorable experience for me, I refuse to forget my humble beginnings as a scrawny freshman with low self esteem. I thought high school would be similar to one of my favorite pieces of classic cinema. Every person over the age of 30 in this room is thinking of The Breakfast Club right now - wrong - I’m referring to the High School Musical trilogy. Gearing up for high school, I decided to model my behavior after these prestigious motion pictures. I was nervous but excited on my first day of high school; thus, when I arrived at the premises, I planned to sing a song in front of everyone titled: “Nervous, but Excited.”

Luckily, my partner in crime since kindergarten was by my side, and he warned me that if I committed this act of treason, everyone would “just stare at me.” He saved my reputation, or at least prolonged its destruction. That companion’s name is Ian Smith, and ever since the day I met him and his mohawk on the first day of kindergarten, our squad has been wrapped like Saran. I know our friendship means nothing to you all individually, but I bring up his name in order to speak on friendship. I cannot think of a friend closer to me, or a peer who brings more support and encouragement my way every day. I am beyond fortunate to have met someone who thinks and acts so similar to me. I ask that all of you identify who that person is in your life, and do not thank them, but promise to yourself there is nothing in this world you wouldn’t do for them.

I will never forget the day Ian finally earned my respect in 2nd grade, when the school bully, himself, and I found ourselves in the school restroom (pause). When Cameron, the bully, called Ian “peeing Ian,” Ian proceeded to deck the man onto the bathroom floor, finally bringing an end to the wrath Cameron endured on our school and the greater Charlotte area. While his WWE talents have not followed him through high school, his thoughtfulness and respect for his peers has. If I am Troy Bolton, he is my Gabriella.

Troy Bolton and the East High gang also taught me to “break the status quo.” I learned that I could be a beast on the court -- and a theatrical superstar -- at the same time. Most importantly, I learned that I don’t have to be ashamed for being friends with Justin Riou.

While it’s not surprising he is single, it is surprising some people don’t recognize him as the most compassionate and lovable adopted child on the planet. Your background and your reputation mean nothing to him, as he is always willing to embrace and accept. I believe that if the world was made up of all Justin clones, genuinity and compassion would skyrocket. When you boil it down, his personality is identical to Will Coble’s, except for the whole dedicated athlete thing. I love the two of them as much as Will loves his pancake special from NY Bagel, and I profusely believe everyone should learn from them. Although J. Cole said he didn’t have any, I consider these peers my role models.

Troy Bolton was optimistic and confident in his own abilities. As I am preparing to go to college, and yes, so we’re on the same page, I am going to college (I’m sorry if you lost that bet), I am reminded of Troy’s anthem for perseverance -- “Bet On It.” If working a Friday night at Brooklyn South has taught me anything, it’s that people are cranky when they want pizza, and you cannot take anything personally. You have to bet on yourself, as you are your biggest proponent, and the person most capable of change in your own life.

My parents' sacrifice, Ian’s affability, Justin and Will’s empathy, and Brooklyn South’s lessons on perseverance, combine together like the Power Rangers, or like infinity stones, to power me, Thanos, to take over the universe. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts, and as a person, this community has allowed me to grow faster than Zion Williamson’s draft stock.

I would like to close with a quote from contemporary American poet and philosopher -Drake. “Oh well, I guess you lose some and win some, as long as the outcome is income.”

There are frustrations -- stay focused. There is no need to count your blessings, but please do recognize them.

Grazie, e arrivederci.

Y A N Y U

" Y Y "

X I E When I was young, innocent, and pure, I always thought that “I was special”. When I grew older, I realized I wasn’t that special after all. I wasn’t the model student in class or the star player on my team. I wasn’t the favorite child either. I didn’t stand out in a crowd. I stopped feeling special. I was no longer this unique and delicate rose. I became ordinary.

Four years ago, I found out that I was moving to a new country, a new school, with a new culture. I was afraid I wasn’t going to fit in. But as I stepped through the doors of Davidson Day School, all my differences were fully embraced. That ordinary YY, who once thought she wasn’t good, smart, or funny enough, transformed. She became a beautiful rose again.

I found my true, special, self, here.

My transition here was made easier by the willingness of the faculty to help and assist. To all my teachers, thank you for showing me what it is like to be truly passionate about something. Some of you encouraged me to voice my opinions in class, some of you taught me valuable life lessons, some of you made classes enjoyable by often digressing from the topic at hand, and all of you sacrificed your time for our better good. Thank you, teachers.

Ms. Thomas, when I first joined Yearbook, I was unsure what I was doing in that class. I’ve never picked up a camera, never once wrote an article, and never sold a business ad before. I never thought I would excel in yearbook, but you are the one that helped me through my doubts, always praising me for my writing and photography. So, thank you for spotting my talents, when I didn’t see them.

Sports have always been my forte. I’ve been playing Table Tennis for 9 years, Soccer for 6, and Basketball for, let’s see, 1 year. Throughout the years, I’ve learned that sports are more than just about winning. Sports allowed me to develop myself in ways academics could not.

Thank you to all my coaches and teammates who always believed in my abilities when I doubted myself.

If you ever heard a rumor that the girls’ basketball team is the most drama team, I’m telling you that it’s true. But it is the arguments and disagreements between us that brings the team closer together. We had a rough start to our season but look at what we achieved.

State champs, yessir. You guys accepted me, changed me, and made me feel special. We spent so much time together that I have been influenced. Both the good and the bad. We’re

not talking about the bad. Anyways, the good! I learned to embrace my differences and be myself, I learned to not be afraid to make mistakes, and most importantly, I learned to forgive. Thank you, I love you guys.

To my friends, you know who you are. One of you once told me this, and I quote, “you’ve impacted my life so much. Your determination and will are really inspiring and you make me want to be better. There aren’t a lot of people like that in my life.” But I want to say that it is you, and all my friends who have truly affected me. Some of you have been there since the beginning, not paying attention together during history class. Some of you I have just gotten to know this year, spending countless hours after school, playing board games and going out for dinner. But, all of you are the reason why I have transformed into a confident, passionate, and humorous person I am today. Thank you.

To my family, ZhenMei Aunt and JianMin Uncle, you are the reason we came to America.

Thank you for always being there for us when we needed it most.

Tina, you once told me you were afraid of coming to DDS because of the legacy YC and I left. Now, I am proud to say that you have lived up to that legacy. You are smart, hardworking, and talented in your own way. Never compare yourself to others. You are special in your own way, and one day, you will discover it. Thank you for being the best younger sibling I could ask for.

Mom, you are the reason why I am here, here in America, and standing here on the podium giving this speech. You gave up what you had, to follow your dream. Your dream of coming to America to study English. Your dream that included YC and me in it. Throughout these 4 years, you stayed by side, showing love through the small actions that you do. You are my number one fan on the basketball court, always cheering the loudest. Thank you, Mom, for all that you have done for us.

Dad, you are exactly 7042 miles away from me, in a country you barely know, away from all your family. Yet, you give you a hundred percent in whatever you do, no matter what the circumstances are. Thank you for teaching me that hard work pays off.

YC, you have always been beside me. You’ve never left me alone. When I found my special self, you found yours too. You have undeniably changed through the 2 years here, and the 2 years in the military. During fights when Mom and Dad aren’t home, squabbles over who should do the dishes, or even when I got mad at losing against you in FIFA, you have always been the first to apologize, first to volunteer, and first to comfort me. I’ve said this before, and I will say it again. Thank you for always being a big brother to me. You will always be my best brother and my best friend.

To the underclassmen, there is something special inside of each one of you. Even if you don’t know it now, you will find it one day. It may take years, but during that process, wonderful people will enter your life. When you find your special self, life is going to be different.

Thank you.

D A N H I L L S I first came to Davidson Day School in 8th grade, and I had no idea what to expect. After coming from a very large public school in a completely different state, this new environment at Davidson Day felt odd. After a few months of settling in and making friends, I started to like Davidson Day. It has been a privilege for me to be able to attend a school that has helped me better my academics drastically, and I am forever thankful for my parents for allowing me to attend such a school. The amazing teachers that I have been provided at this school have helped me completely turn my grades around and help me get into a school that I am very happy with. In comparison to the other schools I have been to, the teachers at Davidson Day have felt more like friends than teachers.

First of all, I want to thank Mrs. Vickie and Mrs. Denise for always making me feel welcomed every morning as I enter the school. You both have been extremely nice to me ever since I came to Davidson Day, and it has made my days so much better.

Next, I want to thank Ms. Milligan. You have been such an amazing advisor and friend throughout my four years of high school, and I have no idea how I would have made it through if you weren’t there. You have spent so much time and money on us, and I can never thank you enough.

Mr. Saunders, you have always managed to somehow make me laugh, and I enjoyed your class immensely. I wish I had one of your classes this year to make my senior year much more enjoyable.

Mr. McGill, I will miss being able to have arguments every day on whether the Bears or the Eagles are better. I also want to thank you for reminding me every single day about the double doink.

Mr. Simpson, I want to thank you for teaching me these last two years and constantly assuming that I can read minds. The way you teach has made it very easy to understand the material, and made my classes much more enjoyable.

Mrs. Pelino, even though I have only had your class this year, you have been extremely nice to me throughout high school. You have made English much more enjoyable for me than it really is.

Next, I want to thank my friends. You all have made high school extremely fun for me and have brought me endless laughter. It will be odd not seeing you all when we all go off to college, but I’m sure we will stay in touch.

Lastly, I want to thank my family.

Jack, despite our differences, we still find a way to get along sometimes. You have been a good big brother, and I appreciate you making all the mistakes for me.

Mikey, we have gotten really close these last couple of years, and I know I'll miss you once I go off to college, and I know you’ll kinda miss me too.

Mom and Dad. You guys have worked so hard to make my life as enjoyable as it could get.

You have sacrificed so much to get me good schooling, and have always been there for me. Mom, your hard work behind the scenes may seem to go unnoticed but I see it. And I’m sorry you couldn’t get any daughters. Dad, you have helped me in so many ways and I don’t know what I will do without you. You have taught me what a real father and man looks like.

If I have any advice, it is to enjoy your time with everyone while it lasts, because you’ll never know when you won’t see them again.

C A R O L Y N C O N W A Y Change is inevitable. It comes whether you like it or not, but we all must learn to live with it. I have been through many changes in my life, but they are what have shaped me into the person I am today. Moving to Spain when I was 11 was the biggest change that I have had to overcome. To say I was upset about the move is an understatement. I wanted no part of it, because I was afraid of the unknown. However, it ended up being one of the best experiences of my life, and soon enough, I did not want to move back to the U.S. However, once again I was forced to change my life and move back and start over again.

I came to Davidson Day in 8th grade, and I was not happy about it. I wanted to go back to what I knew instead of having to start over and make new friends. I was extremely shy and did not want to talk to anyone, but this changed once I met my friends, started making connections with teachers, and joined the volleyball team.

Five years later, here I am giving my senior speech over zoom which was another change we all have had to recently overcome. No one ever expected the Class of 2020 to have to finish senior year virtually but yet everyone has adapted to the change. In a couple of months all of our lives will be changing again, as we are all going to college and we will all be given a new beginning. Although it will be a time of uncertainty and many new things will come up, never close your mind to the new occurrences, because they may be the best things to happen to you.

Now I would like to thank the people that made the changes in my life easier.

My friends: Thank you so much for all of the laughs and memories from these past years.

Each and every one of you holds a special place in my heart, and I will miss you guys so very much. But feel free to come visit me anytime.

Volleyball Team: Winning the state championship was the perfect end to my last year of volleyball. I cannot thank each and every one of you enough for all the laughs and friendships that I have made. I will miss our team trips to the beach, practice, bus rides to away games, and even running the pond. I love you all so much and could not have asked for a better team.

Hannah: You are my best friend. Even though we used to fight a lot, we have always been inseparable. I know that you will always be there for me, and I will always be there for you even if I’m in Colorado. Although I don’t say it as much as I should, I will miss you more than you could ever imagine next year, and you will be my hardest goodbye. You are the funniest yet craziest, and most loyal person I know, and you should never change that. I can’t wait for you to come visit. Love you.

Mom: You are crazy, but you are also the most loving, welcoming, and strongest person I know. I have looked up to you my entire life, and I always will. You have taught me so many valuable lessons, and you have supported me unconditionally which is something I can never say thank you enough for. Love you.

Dad: You have shown me how much someone can accomplish through hard work and dedication which is something I truly admire about you. I have loved every spontaneous trip we have taken over the years, whether it was to the mountains or Florida, because those are times that I will never forget. Thank you for everything you have ever done for me because it means more to me than you will ever know. Love you, Tuna.

And I would like to end with some advice to the underclassmen: Always go through life with an open mind and always welcome the changes that you may be presented with.

Thank you.

A B I G A I L B E N N E T T Thank you, Sydney for that introduction, and for being such a great friend.

I’ve done theatre my whole life. I tried sports, and well, they never really worked out. I mean if I can get hurt by just doing something simple on stage, I think it's best to not do anything sporty. For the theatre it was different. It feels like second nature to me, easy and simple.

My parents have this iconic picture of me in full-blown purple unicorn onesie costume, and after my kindergarten play, I went front and center stage wearing it and put my hand on my hip and waved.

That’s kind of a snapshot of my personality, it's always been pretty big and wild. As I’ve gotten older and matured, it has definitely dimmed down, but I know the girl wearing the unicorn onesie is my true self inside me.

Because this is who I am, it makes sense to have a theatrical metaphor tied into my speech so here it is…

Rehearsals are tedious. Sometimes I don’t want to go, sometimes I am too tired and drained to spend hours upon hours going over-blocking and choreography doing the same moves over and over to perfect them. But it can also be the highlight of my day. A recharge and reminder of the talent and gifts that I possess. I can spend hours being around some of my favorite people in the world.

My life so far has been in preparation for the future, for when I am thrown into the real world in front of an eager audience waiting for a show. When I can’t stop and ask for lines, or take a water break. I have been rehearsing for a long time. It has been very difficult, but I have completely changed as a person, and I know that is because of how much practice has gone into bettering myself.

But, just like my rehearsal, there are times that I wanted to quit the show, stop because it is too hard, or not fun. During these times I am reminded that theatre is my passion, that I have a purpose and responsibility. That sparks the light back inside me. I know now that you can’t stop the show. It must always go on no matter how terrible it is going, no matter how much you think it has failed. It will get better.

At the end of each rehearsal process for the individual show, when people ask the iconic question, “Are y'all ready to perform,” sometimes I’m not sure, I’m too nervous, or I'm afraid that we aren’t. But at the end when the show all comes together, I see just how beautiful every tedious thing that we had to perfect in rehearsal came to play. That each individual person on stage makes the show into something so beautiful and so moving.

There are a lot of people in my cast, but here are a few that I want to have a special thank you.

Ms. Gerdy- You have given me so many opportunities to grow not only as an actress, but as a person as well. I appreciate all of the hours you spend for us, and I truly will miss you next year. You have made such a positive impact on my life.

Mr. McGill- Thank you for always being someone I can talk to and a friendly smile I see in the hall.

Kate- From the day you sat next to me in first grade, I knew this was someone I wanted to be friends with, because I knew you would just be as weird or weirder than I am. You inspire me every day to become a better person. I know I would be a completely different person without you in my life. I love you.

GrandparentsGrandpa- you are the strongest person I know. You have overcome so many challenges that have been put in your way, and you do it with grace and patience. You have always been someone I have looked up to.

Nana- You are one of my best friends. Like when we drive away after leaving your house, and you stay in the driveway making funny faces until we can’t see you. You have such a giving heart.

Both- You are both the most genuinely pure-hearted people I know. You have never failed to make me laugh, teach me life lessons, and be one of my greatest support systems. I love you.

Sam- I really value you as a person and have so much respect for you. You are one of the smartest people I know, and I know you have such a bright future. Thank you so much for being such an amazing big brother and part of this family. Your kind heart will get you so far in life. I love you.

Dad- You are my rock, my friend, and my biggest supporter. I am so lucky to have such an amazing Dad who works so hard to overcome challenges and make an income for our family. Thank you for giving the family so many amazing opportunities. I am so thankful to have such a good relationship with you. Thank you for being my biggest supporter, my workout buddy, and my friend. I don't know what I would do without you. I have so many amazing memories with you, from walking around in Barcelona together, to taking drives to Clutch. I love you.

Mom- I don't know where to start. My whole life, I have seen you as a warrior and a fighter.

Overcoming many illnesses. Thank you so much for staying up with me for hours helping me study for my exams and everything else you do for me. You are so strong and always put the people you love first. All the little things you do throughout the day for your family means so much, and I hope you know I don't take it for granted. I don't know what I am going to do next year without always having you there to comfort and be with me. Thank you for being the strongest woman and best mom in the world. I love you.

Conclusion- I’m nervous about the show, but most of all I’m excited. I’m excited for opening night, or the first day of college. For all the new memories, plot turns, and experiences.

Thank you.

S A R A H A L E X A N D E R Thanks, Mary.

My first time visiting Davidson Day was when I shadowed Regan in the 6th grade. I remember walking into Mrs. Mullineaux’s classroom, and I was terrified. Regan still, to this day, says she thought I was going to cry. Thinking about this moment now, I’ve realized how far I’ve come. How did I go from a terrified and shy 6th grade girl to the person I am today? I believe that it is because of all the support I have gotten at this school. Davidson Day has helped me grow as a person and find confidence in myself that I never knew I had. I would like to thank the people who have helped me become the person I am today. Thank you to all my teachers who have given me the tools I needed to grow. Especially Mrs. Johnson and Mrs. Jackie.

Mrs. Jackie- I have known you outside of school since I was 9 years old, and I am so glad that I got to have you as a teacher in my final year of high school. Thank you for editing all of my college essays and helping me become more confident in my writing and myself.

Mrs. Johnson- Thank you for sitting there for an hour and a half while Grace, Regan, and I tried finishing our partner quiz and for making math enjoyable. I will miss our study hall talks.

Also, thanks for not judging me when I left school to go to the mall.

Volleyball Team- Thank you all for believing in me at times when I could not even believe in myself. I will always remember the unforgettable beach trips, team camps, early morning practices, having to run around the pond singing happy birthday, and of course, one of my favorite memories, seeing Joey Baker at the Duke team camp. You all hold a special place in my heart, and I can never thank you all enough for the most unforgettable senior season.

Cathy- Thank you for always pushing me to become the best version of myself on and off the court. I have been so fortunate to have you as a coach these past 5 years. Thank you for not making me run when I made you run over that random person’s mailbox on the mountain trip last season. You are forever a queen.

Mom- Thank you for everything you do for me. Although at times it does not seem like I appreciate it, it never goes unnoticed. You are the craziest volleyball mom of all time. Thank

you for being more dedicated to the sport than I ever was. I am going to miss you more than you will miss me, even though that's a stretch since you live vicariously through me. I can’t wait for you and Dad to come to Oxford.

Dad- You are the hardest worker I know. You always put other people before yourself. You care so much about everyone and have always pushed me to become the best version of myself. Thanks for giving me my sense of humor and also causing me to be the “wild child” (yes, we all know I get it from you). I love you so much and will always remember your advice to me as I walk out the door every morning, “Do your best and forget the rest.”

Mary- I never thought we would be as close as we are today. I am so proud of the person you are becoming and that you finally stopped shopping in the boys section at Dick's. Your amazing personality has been taken for granted by certain people throughout your high school experience. You never changed who you were to fit in with others and always managed to stay true to yourself. I can’t wait to see everything you accomplish.

Melissa- I can not imagine what my life would be like without you in it, especially since I have known you since I was five years old. Honestly, if it weren't for you, our family would be all over the place, and mom would always be more stressed than she normally is. I am going to miss our lazy Sundays, watching the weirdest movies that you say are the best movies of all time, and going to volleyball tournaments. Cannot wait for you to come visit.

Love you, Liss.

Caroline- You are my favorite sister, sorry Mary. Mostly because when Mom and Dad went out of town I spent the most time with you while Mary was probably crying somewhere because she missed them. People say you look like Mary, but you and I definitely are the same in a lot of other ways. Good luck with Mom throughout your volleyball career. I’m sad I am going to miss you growing up in high school, but I'm always a phone call away.

My friends- You all made my high school experience the best it could have been. I’ll miss you all so much, and I can’t wait to see all the amazing things you do in college.

My advice to the underclassman- never take your high school experience for granted; make the most of it. Go out with friends, try new things, hang out with your family. You never know if it will be taken away from you like the end of our senior year was. Although I am sad that my high school career has come to an end, I am now ready to take on the next chapter of my life.

Thank you.

L A N C E F E N D E R S O N My life… is kinda crazy. While writing this speech, I didn’t really know how I could organize my life and everything I’ve learned. But after some time, I realized something. I’ve practically lived two lives.

My first life began on December 22, 2001. This life consisted of twelve years living in New Hampshire and five years living here in North Carolina. I was more or less a typical kid. I enjoyed things like football, soccer, lacrosse, racing cars… I have so many great memories from this first life, and I met some truly amazing people.

Stephen Neuffer, Andrew Madden, Connor Jones, Cole Hansen, Adam Ratcliff, and Blake Hunt. Y’all are my boys. From pond hockey to ski trips. From full day bitcoin searches to extremely awkward group Tinder dates. From two man simulator racing to egging exes' houses. The six of you will always have a special place in my heart.

Unfortunately, this first life came to an end on May 10, 2019. Paralyzed on impact… an impact that would end my first life and begin my second.

I spent 5 months in Atlanta recovering. I was unable to walk, unable to breath, unable to talk or eat. I essentially just existed for weeks. The simple things like brushing my teeth, writing my name, getting dressed, eating breakfast… all became nearly impossible. I felt inhuman.

But during this time, I spent VERY few days without seeing a familiar face from this campus (or this zoom chat I guess). This entire community held my head high.

I slowly began realizing I had the most amazing people surrounding me.

Mom and Dad: for the past 11 months you have barely left my side. I spent 5 months at the Shepherd Center, and there wasn’t a single night that I didn’t have one of you by my side.

That truly speaks volumes.

Dad: 3 years ago we were driving home from a race and you said to me, “Even if it all ends tomorrow, we had one hell of a run. Hell of a journey.” I wrote that down never expecting anything to come of it. On May 10, 2019, I thought it was reality. But thanks to you and the Fuhrs, my racing journey is not over… You have guided me throughout the years, shaping me into the man I am today; and I’m proud of being able to say that.

Mom: When we were in the hospital one day, a nurse was teaching you how to do some medical stuff, and you were crying… I said to you, “Mom, you have to think of me as a patient and not your son.” I was laughing at you, but I can only imagine how hard it was as a mother on that day. This is just one example of the sacrifices you have made for my wellbeing. We have had our highs and lows, but I always know if I need advice or guidance, you will be right there next to me.

Luke: As all siblings do, we have a love-hate relationship. You roll me into closets and lock the door knowing that I can't get out. You take my phone or my money, because there isn't much I can do at that moment. But you’ll always have to watch out because as you blossom into the man you’ll become, I’m at the perfect height for revenge. In all seriousness, I’ll miss your rare displays of affection next year. Please don't give any other people our credit card info through Fortnite.

DDS staff, students, and families. Thank you… from my lacrosse family to my soccer family, faculty to friends. You turned me from a boy into a man. I scored 50 career lacrosse points alongside Robby, watched Laatsch get more cards in a soccer season than most players, got into 10/13 colleges thanks to Tia and Caitlin, and just learned so much.

(BIG PAUSE) So as I spend A LOT of my time in my head, I’ve had a lot of realizations. Don’t take anything for granted. NOTHING. When you dap your buddy up, when you go from your car to the restaurant without spending five minutes looking for a ramp, when you go to a friend's house and actually make it to the front door, because you don’t have to worry about those five steps. Those are just the little things.

How about when you take a breath, or when you swallow your food. Don’t take these things for granted. I’m extremely lucky to be the way I am. I have friends from the Shepherd Center that can’t do half the things I’m able to do.

So to you all… be appreciative that your biggest worry is what you have for lunch, or if you won the video game you were playing last night. That stuff doesn’t matter. Appreciate your capabilities and spread love. Help those around you that might be slightly worse off…

Because if I’ve realized one thing between my two lives, there is ALWAYS somebody in a worse situation than you are.

Thank you.

S T E V E N S C H E R R M A N Thank you, Jack.

Hello, my name is Steven Scherrman, but, I have been called many different names throughout my tenure here at Davidson Day including Steven, Coach Johnson’s favorite Steve, Stev, Scherrman, Scherrm, Scherrmlife, Scherrmanator, and BFG. I made my transition here in 6th grade and never looked back. It will be weird going off to college, as I have spent a long time with my class. In a way, I feel as if we are just a large weird family. This is my 7th year here at Davidson Day, and there are roughly 176 school days each year. 7 times 176 is 1,232, and if you multiply that by 7 for the school hours in a day.

Excluding extracurricular activities, I have spent roughly 8,600 hours with most of you. I never thought I would say it, but I will miss some of you when I leave.

One thing that really stood out to me about Davidson Day when I got here was the close relationships the teachers have with their students and how they really care for you beyond the classroom. All of the faculty I have come across in my time here have truly cared about me, but there are a few that I have built a more personal relationship with, whom I would like to thank.

Mrs. Barndt, I wouldn't have been attending my number one college choice if it wasn't for you. You have helped me so much throughout the college process, and I am truly thankful.

Mrs. Shelley, thank you for trying your best to do the improbable in finding a way to make learning Spanish somewhat engaging and entertaining. I can always talk to you before my tennis matches and then come in the next day explaining how bad I lost this time.

Mrs. Pelino, thank you for helping me with all my essays which are usually due the next day.

I never dreaded going to English class as you made it engaging and relevant. Maybe it was all the humor in The Scarlet Letter.

Mr. Simpson, thank you for keeping me engaged in your classes whether it was hitting me in the face with various objects when I’m on my phone or actually teaching something interesting. Also, I would like to address that I was fouled before Rob blocked my shot off the backboard, I promise.

Mr. Saunders, thank you for being a friend that I can come talk to whenever I want. I have experienced unique opportunities and made lifelong memories on our trips to foreign countries. I seriously don't think I could forget biodanza on a beach in Portugal if I tried. I will miss our Mandalorian episode breakdowns and when I line up for a rare free throw attempt, and all I hear is you screaming "Baby Yoda!" This is the way.

Although Davidson Day is not perfect by any means, it offers much more than just an education. There are countless activities and extracurriculars you are able to participate in to get the most out of your time here.

My favorite extracurricular experience was something that not a lot of students around the country get to participate in. This year our basketball team won the school’s first boys basketball state championship. Throughout this season, I created long-lasting relationships with all of my teammates, and we achieved something that will always link us back together.

Although my airballs may have rivaled my points scored this season, I tried to contribute in any way I could to allow the team to have a better chance to win. I supported my teammates from the bench and gave 100% into practices. One practice a few years back I was playing pretty solid, making some hustle plays, feeling good about myself. I caught the ball on the wing, and I was wide open. I shot it and drained it. Nothing but net. Coach Coble then turns to the rest of the team and yells at them, “Even bad shooters can make wide-open shots.” He then goes on to say, “We need more guys like Steven, he can't jump high, he can't run fast, he can't shoot well, but he gives his all every time he's on the floor.” Although this may come across as an insult to some people, he was exactly right, but I already knew that. God didn’t give me a 35 inch vertical or a 7-foot wingspan, but to make up for this, I gave my all every play. This goes beyond athletics. You're never gonna be the best at something. Someone will always be better than you. Do what you can control and your extra effort might just get you that success.

Now I want to thank my family for all they have done for me.

They are not here today, but my older brothers, Austin and Blake. Thank you for always being someone I can just talk to or hang out with. You have helped me become a better person, as you have given me advice on not to do all the stupid stuff y'all did. Growing up, it sucked whenever you beat me up or were better than me at every single thing. In the end, y'all have made me a stronger, better person. Love y'all.

Mom and Dad, you have shown me what hard work truly is. Thank you for teaching me countless valuable life lessons and always being there for me. When I leave next year, I will probably call frequently asking how to do some simple task.

Lastly, I would like to leave you all with a quote from my favorite basketball player, the recently passed Kobe Bryant. “It’s the one thing you can control. You are responsible for how people remember you—or don’t. So don’t take it lightly.”

Thank you!

I S A B E L L A M I N A Y A Acceptance is a hard thing to gain sometimes. People can be predisposed to certain opinions and ideas of others. I came to Davidson Day with this mindset. I thought that people would judge me based off of how I looked and their first impression of me, rather than taking the time to get to know me. This caused me to be super shy and reserved.

Trust is one of the most important aspects of daily life. In order to create solid relationships with the people we meet, we must learn to implement trust and let others in. I have been attending Davidson Day since 6th grade, and one of the most important lessons I have been taught is the importance of trust and what a big impact it can have on your life.

I have always struggled with this aspect of my life. Trusting myself and learning to trust in my own decisions has always been hard for me. I’ve always thought that ideas and decisions others made were always going to be better than my own. Throughout my years at Davidson Day, I have realized just how wrong I was.

At Davidson Day, I have had the opportunity to be surrounded by such insightful and encouraging people. While they are all brilliant themselves, they never fail to encourage those around them and help out a struggling classmate. This allowed me to feel more comfortable making mistakes and more comfortable opening up to speaking my mind. While I may not have connected with all that many of these people, at least I knew that I had a group of peers willing to encourage me in the classroom.

The teachers at this school have shown me how important it is to speak up and not be scared to make a mistake. I have learned to speak my mind and own up to my mistakes, rather than staying quiet and waiting for someone else to take the stand. They truly care for their students, and I cannot express how thankful I am for each one of them.

I have learned to stop worrying about the what ifs and to be more present and in the moment. People will always have their opinions, but it is more important to put yourself out there and trust in yourself, than it is to worry about what would happen if you did.

My advice is to not be afraid to take chances. You never know what the outcome could be, so don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.

M A D D I E G A Y I would like to start off by recognizing that I am giving this speech during unfortunate circumstances. We are all struggling and adjusting to the effects of this pandemic. I hope you are all staying safe and healthy and taking care of one another.

With that being said, I’d like to recall a time when I sat at the back row of the theatre unsure of what the next four years of my life had in store. I remember Mr. Smith introducing the Class of 2020. How far away it seemed, but it's here. And I know that you’re all probably really tired of hearing it, but it’s so very true, it goes by fast.

I would have never envisioned myself in this position, willing to reflect on the past four years to 70 faces I cannot see, and I never would have been able to without Davidson Day. DDS has given me so many opportunities to express myself and be a part of a welcoming community that values my opinions and accepts me for me. Probably the biggest positive for me is the relationships I’ve formed with my educators. Every single staff member wants the very best for you and will go far beyond what is required of them to connect with all students. I have formed everlasting relationships with so many of the faculty members here, and I would like to recognize a few.

Mrs. Vickie and Mrs. Denise. You truly embody what DDS is all about. Your beautiful smiles are the best way to cheer me up at 8 a.m. I can’t count the number of times I’ve waited in the lobby for my mom to come pick me up, and you both offered to drop everything and go completely out of your way to bring me home. I will forever be grateful.

Mrs. Croce. I am really sad I did not get to be in your class this year, and it's probably one of my biggest regrets. I owe you a huge thank you for being patient with me and my lack of foreign language skills. Also thank you for always knowing how to cheer me up with your random, off-topic comments. I’ll miss you next year.

Mrs. Woods. This was my fourth and final year of having you as a teacher, mentor, and friend. I have loved every single one of our little chats about life, and I really appreciate that when you ask me how my day is, you really want know to how I’m feeling, what’s on my plate, and if there’s anything you can do to help. I wish you the best.

Simpson. I want you to know that all your efforts to check in with your advisees and attempts to understand our one-sided and sometimes selfish opinions do not go unnoticed.

We can all see how much you really care for us and genuinely want us to succeed, even amidst your spontaneous marker-throwing rants. Good luck to the incoming freshmen who are lucky enough to have you as their advisor next year. Thank you.

Mr. Laatsch. I have not spent one year at DDS without you in my corner. You truly believed in me and gave me so many opportunities to improve and gain confidence. You have mentored me for years and constantly reassured and reminded me to be nicer to myself. I hope to see you soon, so I can give you my autographed UTK golf ball.

Mrs. Gerdy. For the past two years, you have entrusted me with a huge leadership role requiring so much responsibility. You have taught me so much about myself and given me a voice when I really needed it. You are truly a lifesaver. The opportunity you give everyone to express themselves in an open, non-judgmental environment is the best thing a teenager can ask for. I’ll miss you immensely.

Mrs. Pelino. I have never met someone more committed to the well being of her students.

You have personalized each of your classes to revolve around topics we all enjoy or need to hear about. I’ve learned the most from your class, and the lessons you taught me will stay with me forever. Thank you.

There are people here that genuinely care for you the second you walk through those front doors. They listen to what you have to say and take action on your behalf…

I would also like to thank my family for filling my life with so much joy and love. I am beyond lucky that we are so close and that we all take care of one another.

Ally and Connor. Thanks for making the years worthwhile. Having you both as my semifriends makes everything better. When I’m away you both need to show Mom and Dad your appreciation. They’re going to have a hard time losing three kids in two years so make the next two count.

Dad. It’s going to be tough without my adventure buddy next year. I’ll miss your goofy faces, our shared love of music, your unnecessary loudness, and how happy you get when talking about something you’re very passionate about. Since I was little I have always wanted to be like you when I grow up: family-oriented, hardworking, successful, strong-willed, kindhearted, and thankful for every day. I am proud to be your daughter, and you are always welcome to visit me next year. I love you.

Mom. You have the biggest heart of anyone I’ve ever met. I don’t know how you do it, but you always put everyone else before yourself. You work so hard for this family and others in need. You are truly my best friend, and you’re the first person I want to tell whenever I have any good news or bad news. I know I’ve put you through a lot the past few years, and I can’t thank you enough for being there for me. I need you to know how appreciative I am for everything you’ve done for me. I love you.

The past month has given me a lot of time to think about how truly blessed I am to have so many people who genuinely care about me. I appreciate all efforts made to make these past four years so very special. The best advice I can give is that time is not guaranteed, so spend it wisely and spread positivity.

Thank you.

R E G A N P E L I N O Thank you, Mary. I am so grateful for you and our long lasting friendship.

Change can be difficult. I realized this after switching to Davidson Day from public school in the sixth grade. This is the only significant change I have had to go through during my life so far. At the beginning, I was shy, had trouble making friends, and it was not easy for me to step out of my comfort zone. Some of you might remember our 6th grade field trip to Oak Island. My mom came on that trip, not as a teacher chaperone but as my parent, and I stayed in a hotel with her overnight. Mrs. Merical, thank you for your support during that time. I haven’t forgotten what that meant to me and I never will.

As time passed, things got better. I started making connections with my teachers who I learned not only care about me as a student, but also as a person, something that doesn’t happen everywhere. I joined the varsity soccer team as a 7th grader, which allowed me to create friendships with older girls, and I also found a group of friends my own age that supported and loved me.

As I look back on who I was back then as compared to now, there has been a drastic change. I’ve learned how to adapt to my surroundings, carry a conversation with an adult, and of course, no more neon under armour shirts and wearing my hair in a ponytail every single day. This school is not perfect, but I’ve found the certain special things that Davidson Day has to offer and done my best to take advantage of them.

Over the next few months, the second significant change in my life is going to take place. I have so many great people in my life and also at this school that have supported me as I matured from the beginning of my first major change to the end. As I go off to college, I hope that I am lucky enough to find people like I have here at home. People who will support me in adapting to my new environment, learning more about myself, and what I have to offer to the world. I would like to take the time to thank specific people who have impacted my life and time here at Davidson Day the most...

Mrs. Guffey- Thank you for brightening my morning every day in advisory. Your positive attitude and constant support for all of your students doesn’t go unnoticed. Math isn’t my strongest subject, and you never get frustrated with me and always help me until I understand the topic. I really appreciate you for that.

Mrs. Brown- Before Biology last year, science was something that I never enjoyed or found interesting. Your knowledge and excitement about anything to do with science changed that for me. I am very lucky to have had the opportunity to have you as a teacher and get to know you as a person.

Rob- Sometimes you make me laugh and other times you make me want to cry, but I know that every time you always just wanted the best for me. You’ve supported me and pushed me to grow in the classroom, on the soccer field, and as a person. Thank you for everything.

Laatsch- I am so happy that you have been my coach for the past 3 years. You never fail to make me laugh, and although our last season didn’t end the way we planned and wanted it to, I will always appreciate your time and commitment to me and our team. Your positive attitude is contagious, and thank you for always encouraging me and believing in me.

Croce- When I think of my relationship with you, I don’t think of you as my Spanish teacher.

I think of you as one of my good friends and someone that I can always count on. The advice you have given me about so many things has helped me through many stressful situations. You really are one of the kindest, most thoughtful people I have ever met, and I am going to miss you so much.

To my family: Nana and Grampa- There is never a dull moment around the two of you, and I love that about you both. The amount of games you guys have been to over the years to watch me and Todd is insane! I can’t thank you enough for being so supportive of us in every way possible. I’m so lucky to have you guys as my grandparents.

Todd- Ever since you left Davidson Day, our schedules have been different, and I haven’t gotten to see you as much. This makes the little time we do spend together so much more special to me, and I’m not sure I’ve done a great job showing you how much I enjoy those times. You have so much potential in academics, sports, and life, and with your work ethic, I know that you will be successful in whatever you choose to do. Thank you for making me laugh, helping me before every single math exam, and for being the best little brother I could ask for. Please remember that I’m always here for you. I love you, and I’ll miss you more than you know next year.

Dad- Although I’ve never liked to admit it, you do know what you’re talking about when it comes to soccer, and I should’ve listened to your advice more often. However, I can’t thank you enough for teaching me how to play and love it the same way you do. Soccer and

sports in general has given us a special bond that I will forever be thankful for. For as long as I can remember, you have been my biggest supporter. Thank you for teaching me the importance of hard work and finding things you are passionate about. You’re a true example of this every day. I love you so much and can’t put into words how much I will miss you when I’m in college.

Mom- You are without a doubt the most selfless person I know. You make sure everyone is taken care of before you even think of yourself, and I think I can speak on behalf of our whole family when I say we would all be completely lost without you. The list of things you do for me goes on forever, and I don’t think I can ever repay you for the time and love you have given and shown me. Leaving you is going to be one of the hardest, if not the hardest, things I have ever done. I can't imagine having to be without you everyday, but I want you to know that I will call and text you often, how much I appreciate you, and how much I love you.

I’d like to end with something for the underclassmen and all of us to think about. This spring of my senior year was nothing like I expected. While sitting at home, quarantined, I would’ve given anything to have one last day of school, one more soccer game, a senior night, my senior prom, and a graduation. I never thought any of this would be taken away from me, and the unknown about these special events was sad and stressful. So please enjoy these moments and try to have a positive attitude about coming to school each day. You get to spend time with your friends while being taught by great teachers who only want the best for you. So many kids our age aren’t as lucky as we are, and it’s important to realize that.

Before you know it, you’ll be giving this speech, hopefully in person, and it’ll be almost time for you to head off to college. You’ll have to leave all of this behind and trust me you will miss it. Spend time with your family and friends, be kind to everyone, and embrace the little things.

Thank you.

A S H L Y N N E H O R S T M A N N One word people often use to describe me is “independent”. It makes sense, as I am driven autonomously to do most things and don’t mind going places or handling certain tasks alone. Throughout high school, I have spent a lot of time by myself. If you ask my friends, they would tell you how I have never been the first to jump on the idea of going to a party. I think this has given the impression that I prefer being alone, and that I don't need help in order to succeed or that I don't need others in order to be content. To be honest, a few weeks ago, I probably would have agreed with that statement. After spending weeks alone at home, I can honestly say I am in fact dependent on many people around me; I have been depending on friends for entertainment and joy and on my teachers for quick access to coursework and materials. I took for granted the laughs and conversations I had with friends, and the ease of getting help from teachers. Without Davidson Day, I can confidently say I would not be as self assured as I am today, and I will forever be grateful for all of the knowledge and memories I have acquired over the years. I would like to thank the people who have helped me get to where I am today.

First, Mrs. Guffey; thank you so much for being not only a great teacher, but the best advisor the past four years. You always say we are like your own kids, and you really do treat us like it. Thank you for always checking in on us and helping us when needed; you are such a positive person, and I appreciate everything you have done for me.

Mr. Simpson, I feel like we really have a love/hate relationship. APUSH was a constant struggle for me, and I can confidently say I’ve never cried so many times in one class than yours. I got anxiety just walking in the room in fear of a pop quiz. I don’t know if I handle stress better or just care less, but this year I’m much better at not freaking out over “assessments.” Thank you for everything you have taught me. I am sorry if I have been a pain, but I really have enjoyed taking your classes. I will miss you and our arguments, and I promise I will remember to breathe when taking tests in the future.

Mrs. Brown, you are without a doubt one of the smartest people I have ever met. I am so sad I have only been able to have your class for one year, because anatomy is my favorite class I’ve taken at Davidson Day, and I feel like I have learned so much on and off topic that will help me throughout life. I admire your confidence, and appreciate your caringness.

Thank you for everything. (P.S. You once wrote, “You clearly understand these complex processes. Maybe medicine in your future?” on my special senses test, and although it

might have just been a careless thought, and I also may never make it to med school, the comment meant a lot to me, and I really value your confidence in me.

Mrs. Jackie, I have pretty much known you my whole life, and I love that I have a teacher that knows me so well. You really get it, and I speak on behalf of all of your students when I say how relieving that is. I love the discussions we have in and out of class, and I will miss having you as my teacher. Thank you so much for everything you have done for me, including proofreading all of my college essays.

To the rest of my teachers, thank you so much for everything. I’m so lucky I have had you all to help get me where I am today. You have all made a large impact in my life, and I appreciate and will miss you all.

To my friends- You guys are the reason I enjoyed going to school every day. I love you all so much and will miss you more than you know. Sorry for all of the times I opted to stay home instead of go out, because I am such an introvert, but all of my favorite memories are with you guys. I am going to miss you all so much next year, so please keep in touch and expect me to visit often.

To my family: Mom- I cannot even begin to say how much I appreciate you. I am so lucky to have someone in my life that cares about me as much as you do. I notice all of the big and little things you do in an attempt to make my life easier, and I absolutely do not thank you enough for it, but I really should. I can't even begin to imagine what I am going to do without you next year. I love you so much. Thank you for everything.

Dad- Growing up, people always told me how similar we are. I never really liked receiving that comment, and I'm not sure why, because now, it's one of my favorite remarks to get.

Your intelligence and work ethic amaze me; seeing everything you have accomplished in your life is so inspiring. Thank you so much for everything you do for our family. I will always cherish the memories we make when traveling to places thousands of miles away, or simply in our own home. I am always down for a drive with the top down listening to Brown Eyed Girl, or going out to eat and ordering 5 desserts, and most importantly, I can't wait for us to go on Amazing Race together to fulfill your lifelong dream. I love you so much, thank you for everything.

Connor- I know I do not say it enough (or ever), but you are a really great brother. I am sad we don't hang out as much as we did when we were younger, but I cherish the times when we actually get along. Being the only sibling is not nearly as fun as it sounds. I would say

come home and visit often, but I already plan on visiting Boulder a lot the next few years.

Thank you for all of the laughs and fun memories, I can't wait to go on our next vacation so we are forced to hang out again. I love you.

My advice to the underclassmen- I never wanted to leave the house, but now that I can't, all I want to do is leave the house. So go to the party, say yes, you're only in high school once.

Cherish all of the good memories, and live in the moment, because life is so unpredictable, you never know what's around the corner.

Thank you.

I A N S M I T H Throughout my time at Davidson Day, I have had the opportunity to make some new friends, as well as get to know some better. The people that I am talking about have greatly enhanced and moulded the shape of my Davidson Day experience, which--besides friends-is solely academics. The friends to which I am referring have been so vital to my Davidson Day experience, that I would even say that they have worked like tools in altering my time here (with “tools” being a broad category). Now, you might be saying, “Did you just reduce your friends to tools?” and to that I would say, “Yes.” One tool I met here when I shadowed in fourth grade, and he would not get away from me on the bus to Duke Energy, and nothing has changed. This man, Justin Taylor Riou, has never failed to be my trusty Allen wrench, particularly when I find myself in situations where security has decided that me and my people’s arrival on private property in our beautiful, but slightly damaged vehicle, is a threat. Suddenly, the enemy placed a fifteen minute time limit on our little competition to see who could rip a wheel off a car the quickest, and next thing you know, wheels start spinning real quick, and problems get solved. Thank you, trusty Allen wrench. While you might compare that moment to a David and Goliath scenario, I would definitely agree.

Another tool would be a certain Italian Stallion that I met in kindergarten and happen to live beside. This proud steed is my good friend Christoper “Kiko the Womanizer” Williams, who I am always unable to hang out with, as he chooses his many women over me. If Kiko were a tool, he would be my ruler, because he’s frustratingly smart, perfect, and mathematically accurate. Sometimes too, Kiko is a protractor.

One amigo that I met when I arrived at this school is the young Adonis, William Carson Coble. I still do not know why he ever talked to me, but he did. This basketball prodigy is perfect in every way, and always makes me feel worse about myself. Will would best be described as a power saw, as his perfect sheen saws away at my confidence, and I am scared to stand by him.

Also named Will, Will Confoy acts similarly in that I find that when I stand by him, you can actually watch as my IQ drops. Will would be a calculator, because sometimes he may be frustratingly right, even though you have already checked your answer, and it said it was right, but you are not.

Tom Li is another friend who has greatly improved my experience at Davidson Day in his very own special way. Tom has very literally given me a new perspective on the world, when he was--for some reason--willing to travel back home with me in tow. If Tom was a tool, he would be my walking stick, because--while traveling--there was practically no time when Tom and I were not together and walking. He is also friendlier, cooler, and funnier than me, and can laugh louder than anyone I have ever met.

The last person that I will mention is a fallen soldier who is no longer with us, David “Christian” Yates. Christian is the most spontaneous person I know, and also the strangest.

While Christian may not be perfect, we love him for it. Christian would be my Samsung Galaxy Note 7, because sometimes he blows up on you.

These are a few friends of mine that have shaped my school experience, and without them, school would have been simply like work, and no more. These people have guaranteed that that would not happen, though, and have made school an experience I can look back on fondly and think about the many mistakes I have made. My parents have--of course--played the most important role, though, and have allowed me the opportunity to attend Davidson Day and meet these people, so thank you. I also have a sister named Ava, but more importantly, her dog Daphne. My teachers have also ensured that my experience at Davidson Day was memorable and entirely worth it, allowing me to get into my desired college and grow as a student in preparation for that, so I thank you as well. Overall, I will say thank you to everyone who has been good to me along the way. I will now leave you with this quote from Kanye West: “I hate when I’m on a flight and I wake up with a water bottle next to me like oh great now I gotta be responsible for this water bottle.”

Thank you.

I Z Z Y F R E I D L I N E Day 1 of quarantine - I got to sleep in until 8:55 and hold my dog during classes. This is kinda nice.

Day 4 of quarantine - I am noticing my sleep schedule is starting to be thrown off. My body thinks I’m on vacation.

Day 12 of quarantine - The senioritis is starting to kick in. I don’t know how much longer I can fight it off. If only I could see my friends.

Day 17 of quarantine - I have no idea what day it is.

Day 21 of quarantine - I just learned that my spike in senioritis is due to ‘zoom fatigue,’ and it is affecting more and more people each day. Might be more contagious than the coronavirus.

Day 30 of quarantine - I just binge watched an entire season on Survivor in 2 days. But I got to see my friends! We met in a parking lot and danced to music.

Day 38 of quarantine - No, I won’t inject Lysol into my system!

Day 42 of quarantine - It is at this time I am realizing how much Davidson Day cares about their students. I have received so much support through the Davidson Day community. I see how hard they are working to make the traditions of senior year translate through the pandemic to allow the Class of 2020 to celebrate the things that were quickly lost. I am never going to forget my senior year or the years before that and the people that helped make my experience at Davidson Day so great.

Mr. Saunders - You have allowed me to explore so many countries and cultures with so much more depth than any tourist ever could. I have crossed off numerous items on my bucket list and have made so many meaningful connections and friendships that go beyond borders. For that I am so grateful. Thank you, Mr. Saunders.

If you know me, you know I come with sound effects, and I tend to flail my arms when I talk.

Sometimes, I don’t know how to express my ideas except through hand motions. Dr. Hunt you have helped me learn to work through and articulate my ideas. While many people

come up here and say “words can’t express or I can’t put into words how... blah blah blah,” you have helped me find the words to express my insanely jumbled mess of thoughts. I appreciate all that you have done for me. Thank you.

Mr. McGill - Remember once sophomore year, we were reading Tuesdays with Morrie. In this particular passage, he was discussing how it is difficult for people to point out the best in themselves. So we went around the room and named our best qualities. When it came to me, I said that I was optimistic. You looked at me and said, “Is that all you got?” You then rattled off many great qualities you saw in me. At that moment, Mark told me to put that in my senior speech. But also, I felt just how much you really care about your students, about me, on a personal level. Mr. McGill, you have been my hurdle coach, my teacher, my writing club sponsor, my creative writing mentor, my poet guide, and my friend. You have left a lasting imprint on my heart. Thank you.

Madame Teyssier-Merci beaucoup pour les 4 dernière ans avec beaucoup de musique, travaille difficile, et amusement. Tu es le premier raison pourquoi j’aime française et pourquoi je voudrais continue en université.

Ms. Gerdy - Over the past 9 years and 21 shows, you have helped me grow into the person I am today.You taught me to be articulate with my words, to project my thoughts, to work well with others, and to find the power inside me I never knew I had. Having grown up in such an artistic family as mine, there are bound to be some shadows cast. Ms. G, you have given me a platform to find my passions such as graphic design and theatre and escape the shadows of my siblings. You have helped me come into my own. “I can no other answer make thee but thanks, thanks, and ever thanks.”

Ms. Milligan - In life I have 3 moms: my real mom, my theatre mom, and you. I have relied on you to listen to my concerns and problems for the past four years, fully knowing that I am heard. Thank you so much for all you have done for me and the rest of my advisory. We really did have the most amazing advisor ever.

To my friends - you are nice and you smell like pumpkin spice.

Lauren - We are two halves to a whole idiot. I love you.

Aslan - I’m so glad you wished upon an airplane so we could be sisters. I love you, my big sister.

Thaddaeus - You’re a goon. One of the only great things about this quarantine is that I have gotten to spend so much more time with you than I have in a long time. I love you.

Noel Freidline - You have taught me so many valuable life lessons in life... like never eat spaghetti in bed, never accept a drink from a urologist, and everything tastes more or less like chicken. But one of the most valuable life lessons you have taught me is how to love and be attentive about making sure the people around me know they are loved. You never fail to do so, and I never go a moment without fully knowing I am loved. I love you, Daddy.

Mama - I love chasing the moon with you, I love our Wednesday night Survivor dates, and I love laughing so hard in the car I genuinely fear for my life because you literally cannot see when you wheeze laughing. These things won’t ever go away. Nor will the memories. But I am going to miss you so much. I love you.

You never know what life is going to throw at you. It all depends on what you make of it. Life could throw at you a book award and a waived application fee and from it you could get your dream college. Or life could throw at you a deadly virus, causing you and everyone around you to stop. We all contribute to saving the world by sitting on your couch. And from that couch, we can finally start to think and see the world repair without the pollution, see our families without the distractions of routine busyness, and see why hindsight is 2020.

S O P H I E T O Y A In the first weeks of fourth grade, I wanted to make friends at recess and play mystical creatures with all of the other girls. I was assigned a creature that I didn’t want and when I kindly asked to change it, a student who no longer attends Davidson Day slapped me with a jacket. So, my time at Davidson Day did not start well. But, I soon realized I was surrounded by amazing people and opportunities, and my opinion quickly changed.

Fast forward to seventh grade, I got involved in theater and cheer and started to find two things that I really enjoyed doing. I then learned that doing dance routines in the gym in front of the entire school or performing as a singing nun on stage aren’t considered the coolest things. However, these are what made me who I am today. I have stopped caring about what other people think to exceed in the things that I love. This is a lesson that I hope high school taught all of you. As I reflect on these last four years at Davidson Day specifically, I am able to say I was involved in athletics. I emphasize the “involve” because...well...it was cheer. I have found a passion for being on stage and playing a multitude of roles. And lastly, I was able to participate in student government during my senior year. I don’t think many other schools allow the opportunity to be so heavily involved in so many very different things, and I am forever grateful for that and to have attended such a special place.

Another aspect of this school that makes it so special are the relationships that we are able to form with our teachers. To every teacher I have had, thank you for pushing me and getting me to where I am today. I am so lucky to have been taught by people who care so much about my success. There are a few specific teachers that have said or done something for me that has forever changed me in some way or another. Whether you know it or not, I can pinpoint these moments and will likely never forget some of them. To Mrs. Brown, Mrs. Cadilla, Mr. Hall, Mr. Saunders, Mr. Simpson, Mrs. Guffey, Ms. Gerdy, Mr. McGill, and Mrs. Pelino, thank you for these moments and for your constant support. They mean more than you could ever know.

Now, I would like to thank the four most important people in my life.

Jillian, you remind me so much of myself. Which is probably why I like you so much. Thank you for knocking on my door every time I am sad, or coming into my room to ask me how my day was. Please don’t change too much over these next four years. You’re really special, and I hope you never lose sight of that.

Halle, this year I’ve thought a lot about how much I pushed you to go to Cannon, and I’ve regretted that because I really missed my little sister this year. I am so glad that you are happy, and I am really proud of you. Please know that I’m always here for you, unless you crash my car next year.

Mom, I don’t know if you get enough credit for how thoughtful and selfless you are. I’ve had people I barely know go out of their way to tell me how proud you are of me, and that means more than you could ever know. I will forever cherish our weekly trips to Hot Taco, and although taking me there was probably the only way to get me to stop complaining about religion class or voice lessons, that place held some of our best memories. I know I don’t say it enough, but thank you for everything you have done for me. I love you so much and I hope I continue to make you proud.

Dad, whether you know it or not, you are the most inspirational person who will ever be in my life. It is truly amazing that someone who started working at 13, chased guys breaking into your car down the streets of Long Island, worked tirelessly to now get muted by Amazon on conference calls for being right about too many things. All of my successes and accomplishments wouldn’t have been possible without your unconditional love and support.

You make me want to get up every morning and “seize the day.” Leaving you in August will be the hardest thing I have ever had to do, but I know we will both visit each other too much.

Thank you for sitting in the pouring rain when I refuse to leave Panthers games until the last second, and for being my best friend. I love you forever.

I would like to leave you all with a philosophy, the 24 hour rule, that was implemented by one of the greatest head coaches of all times, Don Shula, who sadly passed away earlier this week. After a victory or failure, he encouraged his players to feel their emotions as deeply as they could, but once those 24 hours were up, it was time to prepare for the next challenge. So, as we move onto the next chapter in our lives, we will probably have days where we get slapped with jackets, but I challenge you all to not dwell on the past, whether it is beating yourselves up over failure, or getting too caught up in the successes.

Thank you.

H E N R Y J A M I S O N So, my journey at Davidson Day began 10 years ago. I came to this school with a big group of people, who were all older than me. We all had one thing in common, and that was football. My family and I made the switch so my D1 bound brother could play football here and maybe one day I could as well. As time went on I spent countless hours making sure I was ready for freshman year. I waited for six years to play one season. It was the best season I could’ve asked for. Unfortunately, we all know what happened after that. While it didn’t end the way I would have liked, I’m forever grateful for the chance I was given.

Football took up a huge part of my life, and when it was taken away from me, I was lost. I took a year away from sports trying to decide what I was going to do next. Instead of looking for new sports to play here, I looked for new schools instead. I did not want to be at this school any longer, it felt like the school turned its back on my teammates and me. When the beginning of my junior year came around, I had the opportunity to leave and play football at various schools in the area. Fortunately for me, the timing didn’t work out, and I ended up staying.

This is not the high school experience I envisioned as a middle schooler, but it's the high school experience I was given. I am grateful for the years I spent here, both good and bad.

This school has given me so much that I am extremely grateful for. There were countless people that helped make an impact on the person I am today, and I would like to thank just a few.

Ms. Vickie and Ms. Denise- For as long as I can remember you two have always been there with a friendly greeting as I walk through the front door. You guys always help brighten the mood, especially when I really don’t want to be at school. Your support has not gone unnoticed, and I will truly miss both of you next year.

Mr. and Ms. SaundersMs. Saunders- I promised you many years ago that I would thank you in my speech. Thank you for always reassuring me that I am your favorite student you’ve ever had. I’m not sure what I did that was so good, but I know it helped being compared to kids like Christian Yates and Nick Deane.

Mr. Saunders- Thank you for letting me travel the world with you and giving me a once in a lifetime experience I will never forget. I can honestly say I don’t think I will do anything like biodanza ever again.

Ms. Hill and Ms. Barndt- Thank you for the countless hours you spent on our senior class, you both made the college process both simple and painless. I appreciate your thoughtful advice and all that you guys do to ensure that we all end up somewhere.

Mr. Laatsch and the soccer team- Thank you for giving me a chance on the soccer field. I know I wasn’t the most skilled and rarely gave the most effort, but I am grateful for the opportunity you all gave me. I know the season didn’t end like we wanted but nonetheless I enjoyed the two seasons we had together.

Ms. Cadilla- When I first had you as a teacher, I was not a fan of you nor were you a fan of me. It took half a year for me to realize how great a teacher you actually are. Thank you for constantly challenging me in the classroom and for pushing me to become a better student every day. If it were not for you, I would have slacked off a lot more this year. You made me genuinely enjoy math whether you know it or not, and I’m glad I was able to have you one last time. I will miss you and your class more than you know.

Ms. Pelino- It’s hard to think of you as my teacher. You have made these past 2 years of English enjoyable and practical. Thank you for showing me that good books do exist. And thank you for looking over many college essays and preparing us for the real world. I will miss having you as a teacher next year.

Rob- I don’t even know where to start with you. You’ve been alongside me every year throughout high school. You have been my advisor, my coach, my teacher, and my friend.

You have helped me grow as a person and a student. I cannot wait until you stop teaching and finally start your twitch stream or podcast. I’m sorry you have to deal with the freshman next year; it’s gonna be tough.

To my friends- You all know who you are. Thank you for making this high school experience a lot more enjoyable. You all are truly the biggest group of idiots I could’ve asked for.

Now onto my family…

Dad- You’re a man of many talents; you find new ways to impress me each and every day with your endless knowledge. Over the past 18 years you have been my mentor, my coach, my mechanic, my taco Tuesday partner, my IT guy, but above all else my best friend. I cannot thank you enough for the endless support over the years, and I hope one day I can buy you a 10 car garage with a bay.

Mom- I genuinely don’t know what I’m going to do without you next year. We have become so close in the past couple of years, and I couldn’t be happier. You are one of the most Addalways a littleput bit of body selfless people I have ever met and Alex andtext me before you. Thank you for still doing my laundry and packing my lunches. I know I make fun of you a lot, but I promise its just because I love you.

Words cannot describe how thankful I am for the opportunity you have given Alex and me, it truly means the world. I love you guys.

My brother, Alex- I have been dreading this part since I watched you give your senior speech. Hours after I was born, you shoved a Buzz Lightyear toy in my face wanting me to play with it. From there on, it has been an adventure. You genuinely are my best friend, and I’m grateful for the relationship we have. Whether you know it or not you are the reason I strive to be better each and every day. I’m proud of everything you have become, and I’m excited to see what the future holds for you. I look up to you in so many ways besides height. Love you, dog.

Advice to underclassmen- Life isn’t easy, so don’t expect to have everything handed to you.

If you want something in life, give it your all until that goal becomes a reality.

Thank you.

W I L L C O B L E Looking back at my time spent here, I realize how special this community really is. Many people like to talk about the problems with the school, but I don’t understand why; Davidson Day gave me a place I can be myself, a place where my fondest memories live. Obviously this school has its flaws, but so does every other school in the country, but when I think about the school, I only remember how impactful each person in my life has been, and how this small school made me who I am today. Maybe that's why this time of the year, during my last spring here in Davidson, I have felt the most nostalgic in a long time.

Some of my earliest memories and friendships began in these hallways and extended beyond. But as I think back on the thousands of memories, from the legendary kickbacks to midnight Cookout and Barnette Elementary runs to the Zaxby’s trips before every away game, one of these classic moments began as just another meal. It became tradition for Steve Scherrman, Luke Robinson, Mark Breunig and me to sit in the same booth every time. All was well as we sat down with our regular orders, Luke with his Kickin’ Chicken, Mark with his tenders, me the same, and Steven...with his Nibbler meal. Now what made this table unique was the difference in volume level; while most everyone else was getting locked in listening to music, our table was rather noisy, as expected with any group of friends. Luke, being the gas lighter he was, cracked a joke, in unison with Scherm’s bite of his nibbler sandwich. Luke’s a funny guy on top of being a gas lighter, which does not bode well for those of us across the table from Scherm who enjoys laughing, mouth-open. I swear to you, time slowed, as Steve let out one of his classic howls, as what was dubbed the “Nibbler Wad” flew in a perfect parabola right into my fry pile, never to be seen again. Trust me, we searched the rest of our time in Zaxby’s on the hunt, and to this day it has been lost to time.

It is a multitude of memories like this that have made my time here truly special, on and off the court. There are several people I would like to thank personally, as without them I would not be the person I am today.

First off, the basketball team obviously. Without you guys, I would not have had anything to work for, coming in day in and day out fully committing to a common goal, and being able to end my career on a win. I could not have asked for anything greater. There are too many names to mention in a timely manner, so I want you all to know the impact you have had on my life, sparking my passion for the sport tenfold, and for that I am grateful.

To Coach Johnson, I cannot thank you enough for the adversity I faced, without it I would not be the player I am today, and getting something out of me I did not know I had in myself, and without it I would not have had the same opportunities to play at the next level without your coaching, and for that I cannot thank you enough.

Paw Paw, you have been my best friend for who knows how long. You have loved me through everything, and you have provided me with a proper blueprint on who to be in life.

Everyone who has had the opportunity to meet you knows this. You have become somewhat of a household name in my friend group, and you have always been so kind to them. You have given me a place to go whenever I feel overwhelmed, a legendary place some call “Grandpappy’s Dock.” I can’t thank you enough for everything you have done for me, and for allowing me to attend this incredible school, I am so grateful for it.

To Janie, from the jump, I could always tell you were special. Anyone who has ever spoken with me or asked about you, the first words I use to describe you is a “freak athlete.” You do things I can’t even imagine doing. Hopefully you don’t break six feet, because then I’m sure Dad would force you to play basketball. I hope I showed you a decent example of what to be but mostly what not to be. I know you can do whatever you want, just don’t change for anyone.

Mom, I wish I could have been better to you, I regret a lot growing up. If you had a dollar for everytime I said I’d start doing my own laundry, you probably wouldn’t be here but off on some exotic vacation. I love you, and I know you will be okay as I’m gonna be living it up in college.

Dad, I never knew the statement “relax your shoulders” could be a personal attack, but then you said it one time while we were getting shots up, and from that point on, I can’t hear those words without wanting to punt the ball into the woods. But I would not have even picked up a ball if it was not for your inspiration, and the amount of sacrifice you have put into my career, I could not have been blessed with a better father, role model, and mentor. I appreciate you more than you know, and as previously stated in my note, I love you, and I am blessed to have you in my life.

To my close friends, you know who you are. I would not be the positive, charismatic person I am today without you, and I thank you guys for always being willing to listen to me in my most difficult times. My high school years have been full of experiences that would not have nearly as much meaning without you all being part of them. I mean, I could go to Cookout at midnight anytime I wanted. These people I want to truly understand how much of any impact they have had on me. I cannot thank you enough, because without you I do not know what I would have done. I certainly would have been a different person and less charismatic for

that matter. But it took time for me to be where I am today, and I think the moment I became most happy here at the school was the moment I realized that I tried too hard to fit in and cared too much about what was thought of me. When I let go of these ideals, I began to have the most fun I ever have. Dressing up for volleyball games with my friends, being myself, listening to Frank Ocean, and most importantly not caring so much.

Thank you.

L A U R E N O R F I N I K This year has been by far the most interesting. I thought I’d be on stage, accepting my diploma mid-May, but instead I have found myself attending classes from the comfort of my bedroom. It’s odd to think that this one microscopic virus could wreak havoc on the entire world. Things will be different moving forward, but it makes friendships and family mean just that much more.

I have made many lasting friendships at Davidson Day. Some of my favorite moments were even from this year on the class trips when we played games such as “black magic” and “manhunt.” My closest friends have been the ones to keep me smiling and make me feel better on a bad day. You all are such wonderful people, and I’ll miss lunch with you guys every day.

To my teachers, I just want to let you all know that I am sincerely thankful for teaching me, and being patient when I fail to understand something the first time. It comforts me to know you care about your students as more than just another number. My horses have always been my passion, and Davidson Day has been very supportive and welcoming to that. Each time a teacher says “good luck” to me before I leave, it’s not because it’s polite, but because they mean it. Mais, merci pour Madame Teyssier parce qu’elle m’a aide pour 4 ans, et maintenant je voudrais poursuive Francais a l’universite. And also Mr. T, because he’s the best advisor ever, and I was told to include him since he printed things for me many times.

To my parents who have supported me, and been my biggest fans throughout my riding career. Mama, you have never missed a horse show, and I don’t think you understand how much that means to me. I’m spoiled because you pack my lunch every day, and are the most wonderful cook. Dad, I’m so proud to call you my father since you are my biggest supporter of my riding. Thank you for being my best friend. I love you both very much, and don’t worry; I’ll come home to visit. After all, I’ll miss my cats too much.

Davidson Day has offered me so much these past 12 years that it’s going to be hard to say goodbye. It’s cliché but it’s true, time does really fly. The memories of lower, middle and high school fly through my head as this year is coming to a close. Some of my favorite classes have been because of my teachers, and I have been lucky enough to have some of the best. Even projects like the toothpick bridge stand out to me, Mrs. Merical’s readings of The Secrets of Shakespeare’s Grave, and Mrs. Abernathy’s Cinderella book collection.

There are so many more memories I would love to share, but this would shortly turn into a novel. The Class of 2020 made history these past few months, and I am excited to see what the future holds (as long as it’s not murder hornets). If there’s any advice I can give to the underclassmen it’s this: hold on now to what you have. Those friendships, all the times you’ve laughed. It doesn’t last forever, and before you know it, you too will be up here.

W I L L C O N F O Y Four years is a lot of time. At least, I think it is. I know that it felt like a very long time as it went by. A grueling stretch of time that seemed to go on forever. Every week spent looking forward to the weekend, and every weekend relaxation interrupted with a sudden sense of panic on Sunday night. However, despite what I know, I feel like the time went by pretty fast.

Maybe that’s my brain working to block out the uninteresting parts of the time to preserve my sanity. Regardless of what it is, and as cliche as it sounds, I know that most of what’s left are the great memories I made along the way. Memories like all those times David, Ian, and I went rock climbing. Or during curling, when Justin agreed to draw the hog line as they did in older times. And I feel like when it’s your turn to stand up here, in three years, two years, one year, one day, or if you already did, it probably won’t be that different for you. No guarantees on that though.

Okay, here comes the part where I would normally thank all the teachers for at least a minute and a half, but I’m gonna shorten that considerably. To all my STEM teachers who are still at the school, and also Mr. Brooks. You guys are all great. Math and science are both really cool. Thanks for being great at teaching, but more importantly for being great teachers and generally fun people to be around. I love how I can say that for all of you, and how it applies equally to each one. To Dr. Hunt. You probably hate how cliche and boring this speech is, but I kinda warned you like 6 months in advance, so hopefully you had enough time to mentally prepare. I’ll still follow your advice lengthwise. I really enjoyed working with you on my common app essay. Simpson, this section is already longer than I’d like so I’ll just say thanks.

Mom and Dad, you’ve been incredibly supportive, and even though it’s really obvious, I have to say that had you acted differently, had you not been so supportive over high school and all that, I’d be in a completely different spot right now. So with all of my heart, thank you, and I love you both.

As for the underclassmen, you might already check for this, but the amount of times that a test has had the answer to a question in the description of another question is actually ridiculous. Looking for questions that answer other questions can really help over the long term, if you have time to do so that is.

A B B Y M Y E R S Leadership, dedication, commitment. All three words my dad uses to describe my dog everyday when he comes home from work. I’ve been at Davidson Day since kindergarten, and throughout my time here, I’ve changed and re-invented myself many times. I’ve tried theater, soccer, basketball, and cheer. I went through a really bad emo phase in middle school but I changed, I grew into someone who wears a lot less eyeliner and has other colors in my closet besides black. If middle school Abby saw Abby today, a scrunchiewearing member of the cheer team, she’d probably scoff and laugh just like Saunders did when he found out I was on the team. Re-inventing myself hasn’t always been easy; I've questioned myself, doubted myself, and made mistakes. I’ve fallen flat on my face but I’ve always gotten back up. There were times it was harder to get back up, and I couldn’t have done it myself.

Friends: Justin: thank you for putting up with me so long, even though I tell you that you’re adopted almost every single day.

Lauren: no one will ever understand my weirdness or be my best friend like you. We are best friends because no parents could handle us as sisters. Not seeing you everyday next year will be the hardest part of college, but we will only be an hour away from each other. I love you, lana.

Izzy: never change or let anyone change you. You are so unique and special. I love you, baby freidline.

Teachers: Ms. Merical: Thank you for putting up with Lauren and I for so long. I know we can be annoying, but I appreciate you tolerating us together.

Ms. Brown: Thanks for putting up with Justin and me this year. I know you probably think we are the weirdest kids in the senior class, and you are not wrong, but thanks for not kicking us out of your class.

Ms. Pelino: Out of all of my high school classes, yours has been my favorite. It was a class I genuinely enjoyed coming to, and what I learned in your class will help me for the rest of my life.

Thomas: I'm gonna miss your daily news updates and jokes. And although you don’t really say it often, I know we are your favorite advisory.

Saunders: When I first met you, I was in your wife’s 4th grade class, and I thought you were like a god. Now that I have gotten to know you,you are a god, just the god of fart jokes. But I wouldn’t be here where I am today without you, I know it's cliche but it's true. Everything I dreamed of doing when I was little you made come true. I can’t thank you enough for everything you've done for me and the car rides in Canada are probably one of my best memories.

Coach Carter and Coach Pearce: thank you so much for an amazing cheer season.

Although I’ve never cheered before, you made this experience special. Cheering was probably one the best parts of my senior year, so thank you.

To my not so little brothers: Fish/Charlie: you became one of my favorite people when you punched my brother in the back of the head and made him cry. You are one of the weirdest people on this planet but don’t let anyone ever change you.

Mark: I bit Dad when you were born, and I bit through his jeans and drew blood. Although it may have seemed like I did not want you then, I'm so thankful I have you now. You are a great person, and I don't ever want you to forget that. You always make me smile with the stupid things you say. I’ll never forget the time you almost made me crash my car, because you asked me if Dick Wolfe is another name for a weiner dog. (He’s the producer of Law and Order if you didn’t know.) But I love you so much, buddy, and I'm gonna miss you.

Ryan: you are one of my favorite people in this entire world. And I'm sorry for all the times I threatened to take away your pump because you’ve lost “insulin privileges.” I love you to the moon and back, dude, and I’m gonna miss you.

My other siblings: Marisa and the rest of Team Germany: Marisa, thank you for being my best friend and sister and not judging me when I went through my emo phase. I do not know what I would have done without you. The rest of team Germany, Pica, Janne and Marie: Ich libe dich.

Rony: you made our family whole again after Marisa went back. I always felt like something was missing, and I never thought my next sibling would be Shrek but here we are. You are the woman I aspire to be, and thanks for always kicking my butt when I needed it.

Ms. Jen: Thank you for being my second mom and always making sure I have the best hair for prom. I know I can always come to you when I need something, and I love you so much.

Will: Sometimes you're a little dense but that's okay, because I love you, you are one of my day ones, and I know you are going to do great things at Queens.

Emme: You are strong and smart, and once you start to worry less and let life happen, nothing is going to stop you. You can do anything you put your mind to; you just have to let yourself.

Addi: you are one of the funniest kids I know, and I can't wait to see what you do in life.

Mr. Bill: you still owe me 20 bucks.

Melissa and my trouble biscuits: I am so blessed to have you in my life. Melissa, you are one of the kindest people I know; trouble biscuits you are my light, seeing you two puts a smile on my face everytime; and I love you three more than you know Mathew: you know me better than most people, and you know what I'm thinking most of the time, you've been my best friend since I was little, and no, I don't wanna see your buttcheeks.

Uncle Jeff: Thanks for always making me laugh. I’ve almost peed myself a couple times thanks to you, and this Saturday the pancakes better be flowin.

Dad: No one will ever love me or work as hard as you. I cannot thank you enough for everything you have done. You fought so hard through both rounds of cancer, to be here for us and love us, and I can’t express how much I appreciate it. You love me no matter how many times I mess up or do something stupid, you are my number one fan. You are the definition of hard work, and that is a lesson I will never forget. You work so hard for us. I know you're hard on yourself and question whether or not you've done everything right, but you’re the best dad I could ask for, you are the best father to me, Mark, Marisa. I love you.

Aunt Amie: There are times I'm not fully convinced that I am my mom's child and not yours. I was really scared of you when I was little, but now you have become one of my favorite people in the world. You are so strong and giving. You always put others first, and I am so glad I have the bond with you that I do now.

Mom: no clap, this was the hardest part to write. How do you thank someone who has given everything to you. You are one of the most kind and generous people I know. You put others before yourself on a daily basis, I really can’t describe how much you mean to me. I know when I was little I would fight to not be the same as you, but I realize now that if I grow up to be half the woman you are, it would be success. I love you so much, and you mean the world to me even though I don't always show it.

Underclassman: if you’re anything like me, you have to learn on your own, so my advice is that it's okay to make mistakes. It's okay to fall flat on your face, it's okay to be you, and do not let anyone tell you differently.

C A L E B T A T E What is an idea? By definition, an idea is any conception existing in the mind as a result of mental understanding, awareness, or activity. But that doesn’t really cover what it can mean.

An idea can be the start of change, sometimes better… sometimes worse. It can change something as simple as one’s perspective, or it can change the majority of lives throughout the world.

In 8th grade, I received a book called, “What do you do with an idea?” And it poses a good question. It says that at first, a boy had an idea but didn’t know where it came from or what to do with it. At first it was strange and fragile, so he walked away from it. But that idea followed him. As it followed, the boy was embarrassed and scared to let others see it with him. So, he hid it, made sure that no one else saw it because he was afraid of what they would think. However, the idea remained with him, and the boy realized that he was happier when it was around.

Throughout the story, this idea wanted attention, and whenever the boy gave it attention, the idea grew. As it grew, they became closer until they were friends. It was at this point that the boy started to show the idea to other people. Even though he was afraid of what they would say, afraid they would think it was silly, and laugh at it (which they did), he brought it with him everywhere. Everyone said it was too weird, no good, and a waste of time. They said it so much that he started to believe them. He almost gave in, almost gave up on that idea. But then he remembered, this is HIS idea, and no one else can know it better than him. He came to realize that it’s okay if it’s different and weird and maybe a little crazy. So he decided to protect it. He continued to give it that attention. With it his idea grew and grew.

He loved being with that idea, it made him feel more alive, like he could do anything. It encouraged him to think big, then even bigger beyond that. Now he couldn’t imagine his life without it. Then one day, his idea changed right before him. For it was no longer with him, but it was everywhere. It wasn’t just a part of him anymore, but a part of everything. That’s when he realized what you do with an idea: you change the world.

Normally at this point I would address the underclassmen to deliver advice. However, this is not just to them, because in this case, no matter where you are in your life, this can be useful. BUT to anyone listening, here is what I’ve learned during the past four years: What you think and what you do is what you should follow. If your knowledge isn’t expansive enough to make that happen, then follow your curiosity and gain the wisdom until it is

enough. Then, once it is enough, go beyond that. Take what you want to do and run with it.

Take your idea and give it attention until it, too, is part of the world.

Thank you.

C O N N O R J O N E S On Friday, May 15th, I will officially be done with taking high school classes for good. The thought of that gets me excited, knowing I won’t have to worry about waking up for an advisory or having a macro assignment hanging over my head. That isn’t to say I won’t miss other parts of it though. When I got home in February, I was actually excited for school, because I could see people I had missed for so long. The place I once hated the most became a playground to me. Suddenly, instead of dreading the entire day, I only dreaded macroeconomics. Things were going good, and then we switched to online classes. I was sad, but realized that there are so many things I am powerless over and this is one of them.

The last few years have been a rollercoaster, with high highs and very low lows. I won’t get into specifics, but there are things I did to people that I regret. It’s hard to live with that constant feeling of guilt and knowing the school thought I was more of a liability than really anything. I just have to accept what is and not what I want. Despite this, good times did happen. The friendships I made will stick with me a long time. There are numerous funny moments that come to mind when I look back on all the years. It’s times like those that make high school memorable. Yet there are so many challenges that come with high school, it is difficult to navigate all by oneself. I attribute the help of others for where I am today. There are a few people I specifically remember the most helping me out.

Mr. Smith: Thank you for being one of the only people who I felt cared about me. You genuinely made my days so much better.

Rob: I’m sorry you had to deal with my ignorance in advisory for years along with distracting Henry the entire time. Despite making it seem like I hated advisory, it wasn’t that bad looking back.

Saunders: I know you hated our anthro class but you kept a good attitude which inspired me to do the same.

Ms. Pelino: You were one of the only teachers who didn’t already have your opinion made up about me when I first took your class and that motivated me to try so much harder on assignments you gave us. Thank you for everything.

Mom and Dad: I cannot thank y’all enough for the constant support you have given me all my life. I definitely would not be able to graduate and attend college without the help. Thank yall for working hard so Emerson and I could grow up comfortably.

I would also like to apologize to all the teachers whose class I didn’t take seriously. That was inconsiderate of me, and I am sorry.

I'm sure I missed a lot of people who helped me out in some way, so thanks to all those people as well. My high school experience was memorable, even if I don't want to remember all of it. I do think Davidson Day has set me up for future things like college and work, and for that I am grateful. I hope all of you feel the same way.

My advice to the underclassmen would be to practice what you preach. Don't waste these four years talking about what you want to be without acting on it. Like it or not, this is probably one of the most important times in our lives, and the decisions we make today will affect us years from now.

Thank you.

E M M A L I N D Q U I S T If you ask any senior from the Class of 2020 how they imagined their senior year going, I am certain that they all would say this wouldn’t be it.

One of the greatest of the many opportunities with which Davidson Day has gifted me is the ability to spend my summers, and more recently winter breaks, abroad with the AFAR program. As many of you know I was blessed with the opportunity to travel to Finland over New Years to present findings at an archaeological conference at the National Museum of Helsinki. This was primarily an academic venture, but the itinerary had plenty of hours of leisure built in. While in Finland, I got to snowshoe, ride in a reindeer sled, see the breathtaking northern lights paint the sky, and ski.

Although skiing was comparatively the most ordinary activity on the list, it was just as new and exciting to me as the rest, seeing as I had only undertaken skiing once before, a decade prior when I was eight years old. As we started the day, I realized that maybe the dynamics had changed since I had last visited a ski resort. Then, it had been cute when I tumbled down the slopes, but as a legal adult, my wobbly knees and inability to stop myself had lost their charm. After being literally pushed onto the carpet lift by a Spanish woman because I kept slipping down the hill into her family, and having to be helped up from the ground twice by a French man and his four year old son, which I could tell was not out of good nature but the sheer pain of watching me writhe in the snow as the minutes passed by, Saunders saw my sorry state and offered to coach me in the ways of the slopes.

I cried as I went back up that carpet lift, but I was determined to redeem myself in some way. After a couple runs down the bunny slope, I was still tumbling. But I also was gaining some confidence and beginning to forget that I had humiliated myself in front of multiple nationality groups. After getting good at some of the basic motions, I convinced myself it was time to move on to a bigger slope.

As I waited in the ski lift line, I was anxious I would embarrass myself again, but I knew I had to move past that fear. When my turn approached, I gathered my skis in one hand, ready to grasp on the seat lift and be pulled onto my next challenge. It is important to note that this lift was like a little circle attached to a rope, a "button drag lift" for any ski aficionados. The circle, or button, would go in between the legs and act as a sort of seat to pull me up the mountain. I was unfamiliar with this mechanism at the time. I’d only seen the classic long multiple-person seat lifts like in the movies, but I realized that that would be a bit overkill for

the .05 mile slope I had lined up for. Though the unfamiliarity daunted me, it gave me confidence that the lift would be easier to manage. That confidence quickly vanished when I found myself in the snow being pulled up a mountain by my wrist.

I realize now that the wrist straps of the skis I had put in my hand had gotten caught on the rope that connected the seat to the ski carousel. I also realize that I did not have the seat properly positioned. So, as the speed of the carousel increased, the seat came flying out from my legs, leaving me to be dragged up the mountain by my wrist.

The lift attendant, finally realizing that I was in real trouble, stopped the lift when I was about halfway up. She came running over to help me get untied and, once I was freed, she helped me back down to the base of the mountain. When I got to the bottom where the lift line was, everyone very kindly offered to let me skip them and go again. I told them I might need a minute. But after I had taken that minute, and Saunders had stopped laughing, I went back up that ski lift, being sure to securely tuck the seat between my legs. I still tumbled down the mountain at first, but after some tries, I had a run where I didn’t fall once. And as soon as I got to the bottom of the slope, I took off my skis. I knew I had accomplished my goal.

The one thing about which I am most proud for the Class of 2020 is our ability to persevere.

We’ve all faced many individual challenges, and the recent pandemic has been one that we still are facing together. I am grateful to Davidson Day for giving us the skills to face these and any other challenges we encounter. I want to thank all the teachers I’ve had who aided in teaching us these skills, and, of course, I want to thank my parents, who work so hard to provide me with a life without hardship, but who constantly aid and support me whenever challenges may arise.

My advice to the underclassman: Learn everything you can and know your efforts will help you persevere no matter what challenges you may face in life.

O L I V I A O O S T E R H O U S E If you should know any one piece of information about me, it is that the most used app on my phone is my notes page. My notes consist of lists of things I love, lists of things I hate, ideas for inventions, band names, recaps of every Bachelor episode, now, my senior speech, and most importantly, my quotes page.

I have been keeping a list of quotes for 5 years, and have accumulated over 200. Anytime I hear someone say something funny, I write it down. My quotes page is very important to me; every now and then I email myself the updated version just to be sure I don’t lose it.

Because these quotes serve as memories for me, I can almost always remember the exact moment and circumstance the quote was said, so reading through them always brings me a little wave of happiness. It’s funny to me that such stupid phrases could hold such meaning to me, but that’s the beauty of it. Some of my favorite high school memories have been the split second moments of laughter followed by these quotes. I love making people laugh, so when someone says something that makes me laugh, it always feels important for me to write it down. It’s good to memorialize the simple moments. Now I will read some of my favorite quotes and who said them. I trust you all will find them somewhat amusing behind your muted mics. I will be providing no context for these quotes.

“Robert Frost would definitely be a Trump supporter” - Nathan “I went to Florida, but it was Jacksonville, so it doesn’t count”- Connor ”If Olivia was a boy she would look like Boss Baby”- Carolyn “Jesus died for our sins so choose wisely so when you get resurrected; you don't want to look like an idiot” - Carolyn “I could hit the ball like the dickens but I couldn't catch worth a hoot” - Grandma O “There are loopholes in the Constitution; there are loopholes in the DDS Handbook”Sophie “I can’t do tiktoks because my chrome book has bad camera quality”- Jimmy Those are most of my favorite PG ones, and ones that make sense with no context.

Now I will be thanking the people I love by reflecting on my favorite quotes of theirs.

Dad: “If you ever see me doing yoga, I give you permission to punch me” “If Luke Bryan played college basketball he would play for Duke” “I thought Gwen Stefani was a tennis player......apparently not” Dad, while your quotes may not reflect your intelligence, it is something I admire about you.

Thank you for everything you’ve taught me, most importantly the random facts like how Vanna White is from Myrtle Beach or that Kristen Bell is actually Jewish.

Mom: “I’d buy you jammies before you went on the Bachelor” “It’s just who I am, it’s just me, in a chicken hat” “I’m like wine and Olivia’s cookie decorating skills, I just get better with age” Like your quotes, you are so creative and hilarious, which always puts a smile on my face.

You are seriously my favorite person to hang out with. Thank you for being you.

Claire: “I hate everything except for online shopping and bread” “I’d break up with me for Mary Logan” “I honestly have no idea what you’d thank me for in your senior speech” I don’t know what to thank you for either. But I’d guess I’d say I’m thankful for your fashion tips, like to never wear running shoes with jeans, even though Mom doesn’t listen to that.

Thank you to all of my teachers and friends, who have not only made their impact on my quotes page, but also my life at Davidson Day. Specifically, Mr. Simpson, Ms. Thomas, Ms. Cadilla, Ms. Pelino, Ms. Croce, Ms. G, Ms. Guffey, Mr. Saunders, Mr. Hall, Mr. Laatsch, and Mr. Smith.

Ms. Brown: I have a special separate quotes list for you, that I will be emailing you later.

I’d advise everyone listening to start their own quotes page, it can be funny or inspirational, but I like it because I always have those little memories I can look back on when ever I need a boost, giving me no reason to stay in a bad mood for too long, because, to me, time spent unhappy is time wasted.

Today I leave you with one of my favorite quotes from a waitress I once had at the Cornelius Waffle House. Her name was Debbie, and she said, “It costs a whole lot to be sad but it don't cost nothin' to be happy.”

Thank you.

C A R S O N P A U L I N G Thirty-five thousand and forty hours, one thousand four hundred and sixty days, two hundred and eight point five seven one weeks, forty-seven point nine nine nine nine months…. 4 years.

When computed simply into numbers, the impact and the substantiality of four years is lost, but the last four years of my life, high school, could never be justly represented as a number, but instead, as a period of growth. When reflecting on my high school years, the importance of mindfulness became very clear to me. Mindfulness when it came to building relationships, mindfulness when making decisions, mindfulness with my personal sense of identity, and even mindfulness with my outlook on life.

High school was a time of ups and downs. For my entire life, I have excelled in school. I have always been a well-rounded student: honor roll every quarter, varsity cheerleader, officer on Student Government every year, leader of clubs/organizations in and out of school, National Honors Society, editor on the Yearbook, and more. High school was the first time in my life where this standard I had held set for myself became overwhelming.

There were great times where I succeeded tremendously, and there were times where I faced disappointing failures, both of which helped me grow as a person, and I never gave up.

Walking in as the naive freshman I was at the beginning of this period of growth, I can honestly say I was lost. I felt like I had to mold myself into this image that wasn’t my true self. I had not yet truly embraced my culture and myself as a person.

It wasn’t until my sophomore year, when I formed the strongest relationships with two of my best friends and became much closer with God, that I truly found myself. I began embracing who I was as person, and this growth became very transparent.

There are so many people that I am extremely grateful for that have supported me through this whole journey called high school. There is no way I can properly acknowledge and thank all of these people in a timely manner, but please know that I am extremely grateful.

To my Cheetah girls, The Black Girls, The Trio, we have so many names. To the girls who have never left my corner, who probably know me better than myself, who showed me what

being a true best friend meant… There is no way I can possibly articulate my gratitude for you girls. Thank you for putting up with me and my annoying sense of humor and pestering personality at times. There is not a doubt in my mind that you guys will do amazing things in the future, and I hope you know that I will be visiting you for Homecoming, even though Spelhouse’s homecoming is better, and I will be cheering you on as you give more girls concussions during games.

To my cheer team, the varsity volleyball team, the Yearbook Squad, the Contemporary Ensemble. Thank you for believing in me. Thank you for trusting me to lead. Thank you for the countless memories and experiences. Thank you for giving me the chance to cultivate many personal, undiscovered strengths and talents. The value of life can only truly be measured by the experiences within it, and all of you guys have enriched my high school experience tremendously.

Now onto the superheroes of Davidson Day School, the teachers. Over the years, I have had countless teachers and administration that have given their all into making sure that I was receiving the highest quality education possible.

To Croce, now formally known as Mrs. Shelley, from the very first day I met you when I unintentionally scared you away because of my dedication to a quiet, pristine audio recording for one of Mrs. Mullineaux’s many Social Studies Projects, to that one day I decided I wanted to ask you for Spanish help because I was scared of Senor P, to the many days of talking in Spanish in Mrs. Humphrey's room during snack time, to finally having my fave teacher again in high school, I am so so grateful for you. I not only think of you as a teacher but as a friend that I know will always be there. I remember my biggest wish for you in middle school was for you and Scott to get married, I guess dreams do come true! Thank you so so much for everything, and I can’t wait to enjoy our lunches in Uptown.

To Mr. McGill, Steve, my true Spirit Animal. Thank you for teaching me what it means to dig beneath the surface and to never be anything other than your authentic self. You helped instill a sense of confidence not only in my writing but also myself. You showed me the importance of always finding the deeper meaning behind things in life and have helped me see the world from a much more abstract perspective. Thank you, and please never stop being you.

To Mrs. Merical aka Mrs. Johnson, the woman that I have cherished since the fifth grade.

You were not only my middle school advisor, but you were often my therapist in times when I would stress my middle school self out. You always made me feel heard. When I found out you were coming back I was ecstatic. I am so glad we were able to reconnect this year, and I will miss our conversations in the hallway and during basketball games.

Ok. Now here comes the hard part. To my parents, there is no way I could even come close to properly and fully expressing my gratitude for you all. You guys have provided me with the privileged life that I live now. I have never had to worry about anything, and everything I have needed or wanted and more was always provided. Everything I have ever pursued and accomplished came with unwavering love and support.

Madre, you have taught me what it means to be resilient. Every single challenge you have overcome and every accomplishment you have achieved was the result of your hard work and intelligence. I have never met a person that carries all of the responsibilities that you juggle with such class and dignity. You have shown me the importance of hard work and never letting anyone, any situation, or any opinion prevent me from achieving my dreams.

You showed me how essential working hard in school is, and you are why I refuse to let myself settle for mediocrity. I love you.

Daddy, thank you for showing me how to see the brighter side of life. You never fail to make me laugh and smile, even if I’m upset. You have taught me that, in every obstacle, there is beauty and there is a lesson. And to never let the fear of failure prevent me from being ambitious. You have instilled me the principle that, “If you do it right the first time, you don’t have to do it again.” This quote is why I set such a high standard for myself in everything that I do. Thank you for all of the countless road trips, coming to all my games/shows, and for all the lessons over the years. I love you.

To Clarke, my little sister, mi Chiquita, my best friend, my ride or die, my mini me, ever since you came into my life 14 almost 15 years ago, we have been inseparable. Thank you for your spirit, your positivity, your smile, and for letting me use your closet as a store. I will always cherish our times blasting music in the car, buying basically everything in Target, stopping for milkshakes at Chick-Fil-A, and our conversations in my room. Life without you next year won’t be the same, but I promise to Facetime you every day until Mom and Dad let you stay on campus with me for a few days. I love you more than life itself.

Now as a graduating senior, with plans to attend my dream school, Spelman College, and majoring in the subjects that I am most passionate about, Biology with a double minor in Spanish and African American Studies, I now realize that I am the only person that can determine my success. Never in my years of school would I have imagined my senior year being dramatically impacted as it has by the current Covid-19 pandemic, but I have chosen to stay optimistic. Being mindful of my outlook on this situation, has allowed me to see the silver linings of this pandemic and helped me appreciate the little joys of life that I had once taken for granted.

I leave you here with a quote by Robert Fulghum: "All I really need to know I learned in Kindergarten. All I really need to know about how to live and what to do and how to be I learned in Kindergarten. Treat people how you want to be treated, play fair, don’t hit people, clean up your own mess, say sorry when you hurt somebody, be aware of wonder, live a balanced life, follow your dreams, warm cookies and milk are good for you.”

Thank you for all of the countless memories, unmeasurable support, and for believing in me.

College is a scary, foreign concept to me, and, honestly, I don’t know what to expect.

Leaving home, joining new organizations, and meeting new friends is a lot to comprehend.

But I know what I want, I know what my drive and courage can achieve, and I’m ready for what lies ahead.

Thank you.

C H A R L O T T E R A T C L I F F I first came to Davidson Day when I was five years old with my twin brother and a British accent. Flash forward 13 years, I now have an American accent, and my brother ended up at military school. I have attended this school for as long as I can remember and so many memories and friendships have been built here. Each different stage of my life at DDS has brought new experiences and developmental changes.

My lower school years...It might be difficult to imagine but in kindergarten, I was terrified of getting in trouble. The first time I got my card flipped to yellow, I cried. In first grade, I got my card flipped to yellow almost every day from talking too much. In second and third grades, the good guy and dollar systems gave me a huge incentive to be on my best behavior, so I could receive the privilege of going to the Davidson Chocolate Company with my teacher.

My lower school teachers were some of the most caring people I had ever met, allowing me to feel very comfortable in their classrooms and become more and more independent.

My middle school years were different from the experience of the average middle schooler. I was a member of the varsity cross country team and varsity swim team. In 7th grade, my mom made me attend a cross country practice. I arrived at practice, and Coach Hall had told me to run easy, as it was my first practice ever. As soon as we started running, I began running as fast and as hard as I could to be done with the workout as soon as possible. I have kept this tactic up for most practices and meets. For anyone that hasn’t run cross country before, it is a painful sport. When I am on my second mile of a race and I pass Coach Hall, I always give him a look like I am truly dying, and he stands there yelling “Faster!� With all that said, cross country has made me a stronger person, and I will be forever thankful for the memories and relationships that were formed at Fisher Farms, including the deep conversations with Alex Sabates as an 8th grader. Also, in middle school I able to go on my first of many AFAR trips with Mr. Saunders. The AFAR trips were some of my favorite experiences Davidson Day has given me. From performing shows in an ancient monastery in Spain to exploring the amazing ATM caves in Belize, these memories will last a lifetime.

High school has almost passed in a blur, as it has been so busy. High school has consisted of being a three season athlete, working hard to achieve good grades in numerous classes, and having fun with my friends. We are given so many amazing opportunities at this school that the majority of high school kids never have. The relationships I have had with my teachers are something I will be forever grateful for, as you guys have made these

opportunities possible. I will miss all my amazing friends so much next year, thanks to you guys my school has been fun, maybe too much sometimes. Mr. Simpson is truly the most fortunate teacher in the world to have had Regan and I in the same macro class this year, after we were banned from being in the same class in 8th grade. I know he has enjoyed it just as much as we have.

To my sister. Have fun being an only child for all of high school. You have gone through so much, and you are stronger, smarter, and more beautiful than you believe. Never lose that laugh of yours. It runs in the family. And to my brother. I have grown up with you literally.

From the day we were born until you went to military school, there was hardly an hour of the day when I wasn’t with you. From sharing a room until we were 6, to being in the same classes at school, to going to the same sports practices, and even going on the same trips, you were always there and provided comfort, even though half the time you would harass me. When you left it was a big shock for me, but I know you make the best of wherever you are. You may make a lot of stupid decisions, but I always have fun with you. I love you both.

To my dad, Phil. You are the epitome of hard work. Everything you have in life, you earned it yourself. You came from living atop a laundromat to here, and I could not be more proud of you. You are one of the most intelligent people I know and give the absolute best advice on life. You are also one of the people that make me laugh the hardest, you truly have some of the best life stories, and also no filter when it comes to insulting people. You have worked so hard for me and our family, and I hope you know it doesn’t go unappreciated. I love you, dad.

To my mom. You are so selfless. The things you do for other people in need and our community reflect how you are as a mother. You are so caring and would do absolutely anything for your children. You have taught me how to be a good friend, a good family member, and a good citizen. I love you more than you will ever know.

My advice to the underclassmen... the sooner you accept that life isn’t always fair, the happier you will be. Don’t let what you can’t control get to you, and focus on what you can.

Thank you all for listening!

K I L E Y W O O D S As a writer, I want to tell a story. This is my story.

As the sun reached across my face I remember warmth I remember love But I walked through darkness that grew beneath the surface Like a vine invading my soul Pulling me further and further into the darkness Breeding fear to chase my brave heart Breeding grief to follow me even in the sun I will not become part of the darkness But live to spite fear that acts like my best friend I may be lonely and scared But I am free to take on the world I am free from the shackles that once strangled life from my heart Keeping me quiet Keeping me in the background I tell a story the only way I know how A writer cannot be but real in this world So here’s my truth.

From the front porch of my house on Robinson Road, you can see the lake through the trees. Like most people, I’ve grown, and I’ve fallen back down. I’ve gained confidence in myself, all the while wondering if I’m still the little girl who played in sunflower houses with my big brother. If you look up just at the right time you can see sparkles on the water and light shining through the trees. During summer, when the water sparkled just enough that it looked like I was living in a dream, sunflowers would grow in the right corner of my front yard. My mom planted these tall yellow flowers; they would always grow the same way in a rectangle. She used to call it a sunflower house. Like magic, at least to a four-year-old, it seemed like magic the sunflowers came back every year, and of course, they stood taller than John and me. Their yellow flowers shielded us from an unpredictable world beyond our roots. We could only see the sky when we were in the sunflower house. To us the world seemed to fade away; we were safe in our sunflower house. For the past thirteen years, Davidson Day has been my sunflower house. A welcome home. A place to laugh, to cry, to

face my fears, to love, and eventually grow so that my friends and I are ready to break into the darkness. An unknown world. A place just for us.

Rock of Ages will always be in my heart as a memory but more as an adventure. I never imagined my final year of high school would be spent in the spotlight or on a stage playing a ghost with a dagger in his chest or a rocker/protestor/sequin dress girl. To my theatre family, we dance until we’re out of breath. Sing until we can’t talk. Laugh, cry, fail, start over.You guys are talented, you have so much to give. Ms. Gerdy, thank you for taking a chance on me and for showing me the importance of giving 150%. You helped me discover life in the spotlight. You helped me find the confidence to breathe, open the curtain, dance, sing, laugh, and become a character. Thank you for believing in me especially when I wasn’t ready to believe in myself. You showed me the importance of trusting myself and making strong character choices.

I started yearbook as a terrified sophomore. I was nervous, awkward, and quiet as usual, but having YY by my side made it a little easier. YY, thank you for being my yearbook buddy. You are an incredible writer, and I hope you hold onto that. Like theatre, yearbook became my home. My daily conversations with Mrs. Thomas showed me that I was in the right place. Thank you, Mrs. Thomas, for helping me rewrite my articles sometimes two times. You showed me that I had the potential to be a journalistic writer, even though it was a completely different style than any writing I had ever done before. Thank you for your endless support.

To my friends, most of you have been by my side for the thirteen years that I’ve gone to Davidson Day. Some of you I met freshman year. Some of you I met through theatre, some of you through writing club, some of you through Yearbook, some of you just because I was small and you were small and saying “let’s be friends” always worked at that age, but all of you have become my family. Thank you for being exactly who you are.

I’m a little sad to graduate because I like where I am, but denying adventure and possibility is not the way to grow. As you all go to college and become writers, musicians, actors, film directors or critics, or professional horseback riders, I believe you all have something beautiful to offer the world. Fear is overrated, and often all in your head, so I encourage all of you to believe in yourselves and love who you are. Never stop expanding your creativity and love.

To my teachers, each of you has given me a love for learning. When I’m in class, we laugh, we talk, and we often get sidetracked by a larger idea, and the conversation becomes a learning experience. Your curiosity and passion are contagious, making it difficult to not pay

attention. I want to thank all of you for helping me become the best student I can be. You inspire me to want to explore more about what we learn in class. Thank you for helping me love the process of learning.

What I want to say to you, Mr. McGill, can’t be put in a paragraph. You saw the writer in me during my sophomore year in your English class. And you pushed and pushed and pushed until I saw myself as a writer too. We have a connection and in many ways, we are the same people. We are writers, poets. We live with creative minds in a space so unaware of creativity, yet we continue to write to fight, and we have to write, it’s who we are. You told me once that to inspire is to breathe life into. You have given me so much life, Mr. McGill.

You brought me into your classroom one morning a few days before our poetry reading and said my word for you this week is Trust. My word for you is Gratitude. Shout out to our mini writing club squad. and of course, M C Gill the legend. I love you guys. Thank you for giving me a safe place to be myself.

To my big brother. John, I know you couldn’t be here today, and by the way, I’m mad at you for that. But if you were here, I’d tell you that you are my best friend. You are the reason I wake up with a smile on my face. You are the reason I believe in myself. Most importantly you are the reason I still get to be a little sister. I love you. Never stop being yourself. Thank you for showing me how to believe in myself. You bring joy into my life, but you still treat me like your stupid little sister. I am so proud to be your little sister. I love you.

I’ve never met someone so genuinely happy as my Mom. Her positivity and love of life are contagious. As a photographer, she has witnessed damage and destruction, she has flown into hurricanes, witnessed human suffering, climbed the Statue of Liberty, and taken pictures while standing on top of the Manhattan Bridge. You remind me so much of grandpa, and I know that he is watching over you. You give me the courage to walk down to the theatre, dance, sing, and act. You give me the courage to go to writing club and read my poetry. As much as I may complain, having you just a few feet down the hallway or just upstairs has been a blessing. You bring so much light to my world; thank you for giving me the confidence to climb my bridge. Thank you for showing me what true courage looks like. I love you.

Now, for my Dad. You are insane, but through all the crazy, you still treat me as your little girl. Thank you for following me on my craziest adventures and hiking to the top of the mountain with me to stand at the edge of the world. Your passion and appreciation for finding a career in something that really means something to you are exactly what I want to do. Thank you for reading my poetry and sharing my writing with people which terrifies me, but that’s the best reason to do it. I love you.

Grandpa, thank you for being a part of who I have become. You gave me my love for music.

We told each other stories. Grandpa, thank you for being a part of my life for as long as you could. I still remember hugging you on Christmas morning. I remember you picking John and me up from school every Monday. Thank you for showing me the reality of everlasting love. You lived a life devoted to your creativity and curiosity, and I will do the same.

Grandma, your joy puts a smile on my face. Your heart is pure. You bring warmth and love to my life. Thank you for showing me the importance of joy. I love you both.

To blossom, you must prove to yourself that you can leave the sunflowers behind and join the yellow daffodils. Trust yourself. Then you have to leave the yellow daffodils to join the red roses, then you have to grow your thorns. Walk up onstage, stand under the spotlight, sing, dance, do what scares you the most. Read your story or your poetry. Walk up to a new person and introduce yourself. Laugh, leave your sunflower house behind, and show your colors. Love the way you always have. Laugh and help someone else along the way. Do something that terrifies you, and a beautiful evolution will follow you in your path.

Thank you.

M A R K B R E U N I G I have found that life can be very unpredictable and random, and a lot of the time, it is easiest to look at the negative side of changes and complain about them, something everyone including myself is guilty of at some level. However, I have found that to truly be happier and improve my outlook on life, it is incredibly valuable to find the positive side of circumstances and look for silver linings during the tough times.

For example, I would never have wanted to be stuck in my house for 2 months due to a virus, missing my last golf season, and the graduation ceremony, and for a while, I was just angry. However, once realizing it is out of my control, I was able to see it as an opportunity to spend more time with my family before I leave for college. Complaining and just being sad about the situation accomplishes nothing, and all we can do is make the most out of the hand we are given. That being said, I miss Davidson Day more than I ever thought I would.

For the last 14 years, I have attended Davidson Day School, and that time has been filled with many smiles and amazing memories all the way, from my first year in Ms. Dana’s TK class to winning the basketball state championship just a few months ago. Along the way, I have built relationships with many of the incredible teachers, coaches, and friends, who have all made me a better person and helped me along the way. There are far too many of you to thank each person individually, but I have tremendous appreciation for every person who has helped me through my life so far. There are a few people I would like to quickly thank individually.

Simpson, I’m not sure if it’s because you coached soccer or because you adopted a little Chinese boy who happened to be one of my best friends, but you’ve become way more than just a teacher to me. I really appreciate how you always keep it real with me, and I’m definitely going to miss all the debates in class and making fun of Liverpool never winning the league.

Saunders, you’re one of the funniest people I know, and I’m beyond disappointed the projects are canceled this summer, but I know that AFAR will come back stronger than ever, and I can’t wait to be a part of it. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to find a new passion and for driving me to a Belizian emergency room when I went a little too hard during a pickup basketball game.

Mrs. Pelino, thank you for going beyond simply being a teacher and really caring for your students.

To the soccer team, I regret not playing during 9th and 10th grade, but I had a great time these past two seasons. I’d be lying if I said I expected us to be any good when I first started, but I am incredibly proud to say we made it farther in the playoffs than we ever have before. Laatsch, thank you for accepting me onto the team, and for making sure we stayed somewhat focused during practices, I know it wasn’t easy at all.

To the basketball team, all of you know I won’t miss the 6 AM practices, but I will miss each and every one of you, from Will who I have played with every year since 4th grade, to Dirty John who I’ve only known for a few months. I’ve enjoyed each year, from my 5th grade championship season to ending my career watching Steve shoot the final shot straight off the backboard. Coach Johnson, thank you for teaching me what it means to work hard and for always leading by example.

To my family. Catherine, thank you for caring for Jake and me like your own every day and for convincing our dad to get a dog. To my stepsisters, Caitlin and Emily, thank you both for giving me people to hang out with at home other than just Jake. My stepdad Marc, thank you for making my mom so happy and for supporting Jake and me constantly. Dad, we have been through a few ups and downs over the years, but there is no one I’d rather have as my father. Thank you for your quiet support; your few words of encouragement before every basketball game helped me more than you realize. I’m going to miss you yelling at the refs during every Packers game and watching you play with the dog you claim you didn’t want.

Mom, there isn’t enough time for me to thank you for all that you do for me. I know I’m not always the best at showing my appreciation, but I hope you know how much I love you and how much I appreciate all your sacrifices and support for Jake and me. Finally, Jake. I know you keep saying you’re going to miss me when you’re stuck as an only child for the next two years, but I know I’m going to miss you just as much. I know it’s cliche, but you really are my best friend, no matter how bad your haircut is. Since you were born I have spent more time with you than with anyone else, and I wouldn’t trade that time for anything. I love you bro.

All in all, even during these weird times, I’m incredibly thankful for everything I have in my life and I am extremely lucky. I hope everyone can use this as an opportunity to spend time with family or pick up a new hobby. Looking on the bright side and trying to make the most of the situation will help us all get through tough times and allow us to find more happiness in our lives.

Thank you.

J U S T I N R I O U When you hear the name Justin Riou, strong, tall, hard working, handsome, raging sex appeal, are all descriptions that should not come to mind. However, odd, nice with a question mark, and pear shaped should ring a bell.

After all the addition, I have spent 15 years here at Davidson Day, and you probably couldn't tell. With that all said, there are a few people who I would like to thank for helping me become the person I am today, cliches and all. Susan Loveday, you have known me for the longest time, and I am incredibly grateful for you watching over me when I was much smaller. Don't worry, my maturity hasn't grown as well as I have. I am also saying this because you told me I was dead to you if I didn't mention you in my speech :). From first grade to now, I have so many educators to thank, however, I don't want to spend all my time talking about teachers, so quickly: Mr. Saunders for allowing me to join the AFAR program year after year; Mr. Thomas for being an amazing advisor and and keeping me on track, somewhat; Mrs. Pelino for making English class enjoyable; Mr. Freidline for taking a chance on a new musician; Mrs. Brown for showing your passion for science and understanding that I don't always study, like ever. I have so many more to thank, and personally, I want to say thank you for all the hard work you put into your classes to make learning somewhat enjoyable.

The main people in my life I would like to thank are my family and friends. To my family, we don't always see eye to eye, but I love all of you and I mean it. You guys do everything you can to support me, and I appreciate all the long days and all of your time spent at work so we can maintain everything we have now. Mom and Dad, you guys are the real supporters for everything Jess and I wish to do, and I cannot say thank you enough for everything. You forced me to get a job in order to teach me the value of a dollar, and I am forever thankful.

Dad, you always try to tag along on my bike rides and then make me feel like I am about to die on said bike rides. Mom, you are the biggest ball of love, and your sweetness rivals the amount of sugar I ingest without your knowledge, it's a lot, and I mean A LOT, and I couldn't be more fortunate than to call you my mom. Jess, I know you and I didn't really grow up liking each other, but as you went off to college and came back, you and I have gotten a lot closer. I now see you as a real person going through a lot and still trying to figure stuff out. I want to tell you that you are one of the strongest people I know and everything will go your way eventually, either because you are so kind to everyone you care about, or because you are so stubborn that fate will eventually give in to you.

THE BOYS, I wrote that in all caps so you know it's important. The squad, the label, although you guys bully me sometimes, there are no other people who I would want to spend my Saturday nights in a car screaming Self Control by Frank Ocean at the top of our lungs on the way to Cook Out. Will, I have really enjoyed getting to know you better this past year, from your stunning looks to your fast metabolisms, it's almost as if you were chiseled out of clay by Michelangelo himself. Kiko, my ride or die, you are both the smartest person I know and the most fit. You are always down to do crazy things with me whether it be late night Cook Out runs, or going go-karting on the way to Concord Mills. You are down for anything, and I can't wait to visit you at Duke and watch you dunk on some random Asian kid in the rec center. Ian, Jesus, my gay lover, we have been best friends for the past 8 years, and I truly love you as a friend. You are not afraid to tell someone the truth no matter how much it hurts and that is why I have been proud to call you my friend. Christian, the abandoner, our relationship is like an old married couple, where we hate each other, but it is too much work to break up. However, we are going to college in the fall, so I guess all the boys can’t be friends. You guys have all given me the inspiration to be better, and I am so happy to call you guys my friends.

You might be thinking that this is the end of my speech, because I have just talked about all the important people in my life, and now is the time for a small tidbit of advice to the younger people, but you’d be wrong. This is advice for everyone, no matter the position, age, role, gender, or race: This world is filled with hate and misunderstanding, humans as a species need to be more positive and much more empathetic in general, especially during this new and odd time. Try to spread positivity and do more good deeds, it’ll make someone's day, and life, more enjoyable. My final words are stay safe, don’t die, and I love you all, thank you.

N I C K D E A N E When I began my journey at Davidson Day, my classroom was in a trailer parked outside of the school, and the first ninth grade class, which would go on to be the first graduating class in 2009, was introduced. Over the course of these last fourteen years, Davidson Day has changed dramatically, and I’ve been witness to each phase this school has gone through. It would be an understatement to say the school was a little different after the departure of the football program. The culture, community, and reputation of the school completely changed, and I would be lying if I said I was happy about it. But nevertheless, Davidson Day provided me endless memories, and I know I would not be in the position I am right now if I attended any other school.

As a kid, I was always causing trouble, whether it was talking out of turn or excluding someone on the playground. This characteristic stuck with me throughout middle school and brought on the countless trips to Mr. Wehunt's office to discuss what I had done this time. I only cared about making my friends laugh by seeing who could do the most stupid action to get in trouble next. This stupidity peaked my sophomore year when I decided to vape in the Commons at my lunch table. I was subsequently suspended two days from school and got an earful from my father. This was a big turning point in my life. I could either continue on the path of not caring about myself, others, or really anything in life, or redeem my actions and climb out of the hole I had dug myself. I truly believe if I was in any other environment, other than Davidson Day, I would’ve continued down that path. But thanks to my parents, the teachers, and culture of academic excellence that had been built in the school, I began climbing. The following year, I finally realized my true potential and my GPA jumped from a 3.02 my sophomore year to a 4.1 my junior year. I am not sharing this to brag upon myself, as I know the majority of our very talented class kept this GPA throughout high school. I am sharing this because in life, everyone makes mistakes, it is what makes us human. What defines you as a person is not the mistakes you make, but how you bounce back and redeem yourself.

I would not have been able to redeem myself and save my future without my teachers, friends, and family. So I’d like to thank those people as they played a big role in my life to this point. Mr. Saunders, Mr. Simpson, Mrs. Pelino, Mrs. Brown, and Ms. Milligan, you guys are what makes this school special. Your dedication and genuine care for your students' well being is second to none. I know at times I was not the easiest student to deal with, especially this last year, but I thank you for your patience and will miss all of you a lot next year whether you believe it or not.

Henry, Connor, Adam, Steven, Dan, and Luke, my boys. I am confident to say our relationship as a unit is unlike any other, and I will never experience anything like it again.

Whether I met you two or 10 years ago, it feels like I’ve known all of you my whole life, and I will never forget the bond and memories we have created. I can’t wait to see what each of you do in the future and our reunions down the road on Playstation.

Chase Cook and Chase Saine, you two have been my best friends, and I missed you guys a lot this past year. Chase Cook, unfortunately I don’t even know if we can be friends anymore considering the fact you're a Clemson Tiger. However, I credit you for my sense of humor, because after years of being berated by your insults, I eventually learned not to get offended by every little joke, and there’s no other way to go through life other than to laugh.

Chase Saine, I hope you don’t forget me when you pursue your career as a Tik Tok and social media influencer. I still don’t know how you got into Florida, but you’re thriving, and I couldn’t be more happy for you. I also know you’re trying to be just like me with your new hairdo.

Murphy and Brady, my brothas from another motha. We’ve spent weeks straight together and still somehow don’t get tired of each other. Brady, I have never got along with someone so naturally, and I can always count on you for a good laugh. I know this next two years seems like a long time, but it will be done before you know it, and I’m only an hour and a half away, so you can come visit whenever you want. Murphy, you are by far the most stubborn individual I’ve met in my life. We’ve got into huge fights over the most miniscule issues that would have ended a lot of other friendships. But as cheesy as it sounds you’re not my friend, you’re my brother, and life wouldn’t be the same without you.

Alex, I may have not been the best big brother at times, but it took me a while to realize you are way cooler than me. Your charisma lights up a room, and I’m always here for you if you need anything. Make sure to take good care of Bear and Ella when I’m gone, but just know you will never be their favorite. I can’t wait to see where life takes you in the future. Love you.

Mom, you have put Alex and me before yourself for the last 18 years and words could never express my gratitude. You have always supported me, and been by my side every step of the way. I’m not sure what I am going to do without you next year, but I know you’ll be calling me daily to talk. You’re the best mom I could ask for, and I love you.

Dad, you are the epitome of hard work, dedication, and resilience. You have taught me more life lessons than you will ever know and helped me realize my true potential. You have always been my advocate and my number one fan. You have done everything in your power to provide for our family and give Alex and me the brightest future possible and for that I thank you. Love you.

I’d like to close off my speech with a quote from author and motivational speaker Jordan Belfort. “No matter what happened to you in your past, you are not your past, you are the resources and the capabilities you glean from it. And that is the basis for all change.”

Thank you and Go Cocks.

C O N G R A T S , C L A S S O F 2 0 2 0 !