Graduation is bittersweet. It is the ending of a huge chapter of their senior lives, one that they’ve spent 12 years waiting for. The class of 2022 is one that has been hardworking, passionate and determined. They’ve rolled with the punches and gotten back up stronger than they were before.

This class is the embodiment of their class flower: the purple morning glory. Like the morning glory, they rise and bloom again each day.

Senior Jayce Abens shared that, “Morning Glory Coffee also happens to be frequented by many of us looking for a caffeine fix after a long night of studying.”

Purple and gold was chosen as the class colors, as the class has shown their Lynx pride in everything from athletics, to the arts, to cheering from the stands on Friday nights. They chose the School Song (Illinois Loyalty) as their class song because of their class spirit. The School Song is one that they’ve heard time and time again at parades and sporting events. “We’re loyal and bold Webster High. …”

-Photo courtesy of David Borer
Seniors Riley Jensen, left, and Tucker Murray sing with the Webster City High School Choir for the last time Sunday.

This class has faced many hardships throughout their four years at the high school, including the tragic loss of a classmate. But in light of those hardships, this class has come together and supported each other.

“We have grown a lot as a class and as individuals over the past four years and the obstacles are perhaps the most valuable part of that journey,” Abens said Sunday.

The class motto by Shawn Achor reflects the growth this class has had after facing their difficult journey. “The most successful people see adversity not as a stumbling stone, but as a stepping stone to greatness.”

The Student Senate selected the flower, colors, song, and motto that they felt best represented the class of 2022.

Abens reflected on the reasonings behind these choices during his speech Sunday.

-Photo courtesy of David Borer
Senior Charlie Stansfield spoke during the commencement ceremonies Sunday at Webster City High School.

“This class’s spirit and passion show in the many victories we can claim to be a part of,” he said.

From record number donations, to state athletes and performers, the class of 2022 has accomplished many victories. Abens went on to say that he hoped all of the graduates go on to continue to be passionate about what they pursue because he believes that they all have the ability to succeed.

In addition to Abens, cheering the seniors on are the staff within the school district, their families, and the community who support these amazing young adults.

“Remember, wherever life takes you, you have a home here in Webster City,” Abens said.

After Abens’ speech, the Webster City High School Choir performed the song “Home” by Phillip Phillips.

“The song ‘Home’ by Phillip Phillips is a message to our graduates,” said Greta Nelson. “As they embark on the next chapter of their lives, there will be unknowns, troubles, and changes, but they are not alone. This song reminds them that their Webster City home, and the families and friends that give them a sense of home, are always there for them.”

There were two class speakers chosen by the seniors: Charlie Stansfield and Delaney Kopriva.

Stansfield reminisced about the class’s past experiences and all of the things that they’re going to miss.

“After this year, you will never step foot in the halls of Webster City High School as a student again. You’ve left this school with your mark, your abilities, and your legacy. This may be passing your artistic abilities down to younger students, your enthusiasm for band or plays, or your leadership in a sport you play. Whatever the case may be, your mark has been made so be proud of what you’ve done.”

“Senior year, starting only seven months ago, was when high school became fun again, for some,” he said.

Kopriva looked back.

“We have been together through it all, all the voice cracks, bad acne, our first crushes, learning to drive, gaining independence, triumph, and tragedy,” she said.

This class has had an unusual high school career, she said, but in light of the hardships the class of 2022 has produced some pretty stellar individuals.

“From a four-time state wrestling qualifier to a cancer survivor-turned-collegiate athlete, an all-state speech performer and many high academically achieving individuals, just to name a few. Our class is a class to be remembered.”

She said that it is hard to know where they are all headed, but knowing that they all started on this journey together is something that brings a smile to her face.

“Webster City is having friends for the rest of our lives and that means we really are all in this together and, remember, ‘once a Lynx Always a Lynx.'”

After all of the speeches had commenced, the high school band played “Encanto,” which would be the seniors’ last performance in high school.

After the band played Vice Principal Patrick Farley gave the recognition of the Cessna 3.75 Scholars. The following students finished with a cumulative GPA of 3.75 or higher: Jayce Abens, Benjamin Auderer, Marissa Bloom, Katelynn Casady, Jacie Crutcher, Makaylee Draeger, Alayna Finucan, Beau Klaver, Cody Kolbeck, Sean Mathias, Jenna McKinney, Allison Oswald, Noah Rahe, Marah Range, Dasha Sankey, Drew Schwering, Devon Stokes, Kelly Stoakes, Emma Stroner, Livia Taylor, Aurora Weidemann, and Kayley Wibholm.

“As you walk across the stage today, excited for the future, remember that you are a Lynx and be proud of the legacy you are leaving behind,” Stansfield said.

“Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx,” Kopriva declared.

“Congrats everyone. We did it. Go be great,” said Abens.