The Class of 2019 graduated from Walpole High School at the annual commencement ceremony on June 2. The ceremony began with the procession of faculty and students, followed by an address from Principal Stephen Imbusch. Following the procession, Senior Class President Emery Murphy presented the 2019 class gift— a donation to after school activities—which was accepted by Junior Class President Hallie McLaughlin.

Sanjana Bhagavatula delivered a salutatorian speech and spoke about the diversity of the class of 2019. Reshma Abraham delivered the valedictorian speech and spoke about the bond that members of the Class of 2019 have with each other and how they will always have with each other. Both students also spoke about Anthony Conti, who was a part of the class of 2019 before his death in 2017, and his continuous impact on the graduating class.

“Speaking at graduation was truly an honor. The Walpole High School community has helped me in so many ways and I wanted to make sure to acknowledge that in my speech,” Bhagavatula said. “I also wanted to celebrate the accomplishments of my class and how they translate to actions that could truly change the world in the future.”

Following these speeches, former Physical Education teacher Terri Thornton was inducted into the Hall of Fame for her influence on the WHS Physical Education Department and the Walpole Community throughout her 43 year career.

“It was nice to be recognized for everything I have done over the years for the high school in addition to the town,” Thornton said.

Principal Imbusch then announced scholarships awarded to over 100 students. Retiring Superintendent Lincoln Lynch and School Committee Chairman William Buckley handed out diplomas as Vice Principals Sean Powers and Lee Tobey read aloud each name of the graduating class.

“Graduation was a very memorable day,” Murphy said. “I got to see all my friends get their diplomas and it was cool to watch it all go down.”

Murphy then led the new graduates in turning their tassels from right to left as a symbol of turning from students to graduates. After this tradition, the graduated students threw their caps into the air to conclude the ceremony.

“Congratulations to the Walpole Class of 2019 on your well-earned success. My hope is that you become a lifelong learner and never stop challenging yourself. Your future is limitless,” Lynch said.