Evergreen High School’s graduation was all about thankfulness and possibilities.

Attendees at the 90^th commencement ceremony at Red Rocks Amphitheatre on May 19 listened to graduate and faculty speakers address thankfulness for students’ time at EHS with the support of family and friends, and plans for the future, noting that being true to themselves and making a difference were as important as getting a job.

The school lauded valedictorian Olivia Campsie and salutatorian Anne Elliston Barwell among the 245 members of the class of 2023. Graduates were offered $11 million in grants and scholarships for further education and accepted $3 million.

“It doesn’t get any better than this,” said Jameson Mott, student body co-president. “Our differences … have united us with a bond that is so special it must be cherished.”

She urged her classmates to think for themselves.

“Your opinion has power, your voice has power … to help create a more just and equitable world,” she said.

She ended her speech quoting the movie “Friday Night Lights:” “Clear eyes. Full hearts. Can’t lose.”

Grayson Richmond, student body co-president, told graduates that after four years of high school, they have become young adults with identities unique to themselves, and valedictorian Campsie added that the graduates have endured, learned, adapted and grown to be the people they are today.

Salutatorian Barwell said that being open to new perspectives was important as the graduates go out into the world, while Campsie said it was time for the graduates to create an impact and leave a legacy.

Chemistry teacher Thomas Fuller said he has watched the class of 2023 closely to learn what it meant to be an Evergreen Cougar.

He noted that freshman year ended abruptly with the pandemic, sophomore year was filled with virtual classes and disinfectant, junior year began to get back to normal, and senior year was the full high school experience.

“You showed appreciation to those who helped you,” Fuller said. “I saw your confidence grow throughout the year. You were always willing to learn and willing to grow. You have proven to me and everyone else who knows you that we are in good hands with you as the future. My point is that … whatever your pursuit, don’t lose your humanity, your empathy and compassion.”

After getting everyone in the audience and the graduates to do “the wave,” he added: “When you leave here to start something new, don’t forget to be the start of that wave.”

Principal Skyler Artes reminded the graduates that she became an assistant principal at EHS the year they were freshmen at the school.

“For this reason and a million more, you are special to me,” she said. “Thank you for each and every step in this wonderful journey.”

She said the world was waiting for the graduates, while the Evergreen Cougar community would remain their champions and supporters.

“Always remember,” she said, “you have a full Cougar community behind you.”