More than 200 Grizzly seniors go through rites at Butler Bandshell in Lithia Park
By Holly Dillemuth, Ashland.news
They cheered, they danced, they celebrated their way through high school, all while showing resilience, kindness and adaptability.
That’s how Ashland High School Principal Benjamin Bell will remember the Class of 2025 as he reflected on the past school year with 208 Ashland High School graduates on the Butler Bandshell stage during the graduation ceremony on Friday, June 6. Facing hundreds of family, friends and wellwishers marking the 134th graduation together, Bell praised graduates, including 12 valedictorians and five salutatorians, for their resilient spirit, throughout the year and their four years at AHS.
“You’ve brought this school to life in unforgettable ways,” Bell told grads. “This year’s pep rallies were some of the most spirited we’ve ever seen at AHS. You didn’t just show up, you led.”
“You created moments that reminded us what community feels like when everyone belongs, when everyone lets their light shine. Because that’s what you’ve done again and again — you’ve brought your light.”
Bell acknowledged that the year hasn’t always been easy for students with ongoing construction at the school.
“Instruction on campus brought its fair share of disruptions,” Bell said.
“Classrooms shifted, walkways changed, and through all of it, you adapted. You didn’t let inconvenience steal your focus or your spirit. You walked into unfamiliar spaces and made them your own, with patience, with flexibility and with a remarkable sense of unity.”
“Graduates, today is a celebration of your resilience, your growth, and your journey,” Bell said. “This class has traveled a path unlike any other collectively and individually and tonight we’re here to honor the strength, courage, and character that you’ve shown every step of the way.
Bell said it’s often said high school prepares students for the real world.
“What I’ve seen in you tells me something even greater – you are going to help shape the world,” Bell said.
“You’re not just prepared for the future, you’re ready to help build it. You’ve learned the value of showing up, not just for tests or projects, but for people,” he added.
“As you go forward from Ashland High School, take these lessons with you. Let your empathy guide you, let your values anchor you, and let your dreams push you beyond every limit. The world needs your vision, it needs your compassion, and more than ever, it needs your light.
“Congratulations – Let your light shine.”
Email Ashland.news reporter Holly Dillemuth at hollyd@ashland.news.
June 13: Added news story to photo gallery.
Related story: Class of ’25: School superintendent reflects on finding acceptance through authenticity (June 13, 2025)
