In their four years at Ralston Valley High School, the graduating class of 2017 made a big impact on the school's teachers, staff, and community at large.

But on May 19, it was time for the students to move onto the next stage of their lives.

"The sun is clearing on our future," said Alexandria Keller, senior class president, during the ceremony at the Coors Event Center. "We've been through storms, but we did it together. As a family. As a community."

During the ceremony, Principal Gavin Goodrich said the class of 2017 has some of the highest ACT and SAT scores, as well as number of Advanced Placement scholars, that the school's ever had. As a reflection of that, this year's students received nearly $13 million in scholarships. In addition to scholars and athletes, Goodrich also honored the school's many artists and creatives.

"You are more than ready to take what comes your way," he said. "The world needs what you have and what you are."

Biology teacher Shane Freehling gave students a couple "mini lessons" on the brain and heart, and using both to make choices in life.

In her address to her classmates, Nicole Verderosa delivered a simple, but powerful statement on finding strength in who they are.

"You are awesome, and you should take identity in that," she said. "Instead of taking identity in what you do, take it in the real you, the authentic you. And as we take that next step, let us never forget how simply and purely awesome we are."