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[Music] [Music] [Music] Please. Oh. [Music] Oh, [Music] oh, oh. [Music] Are [Music] [Music] [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Oh, we do. Heat. [Music] [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] [Music] [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] You know, [Music] you're Heat. Heat. [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] Hey, hey, hey. [Music] [Music] feeling. [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] Run [Music] out. Hey. Hey. Hey, hey, hey. [Music] [Music] Hey, hey, hey. [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] Mountain. Heat. Heat. [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] Wonder. Heat. Heat. [Music] [Music] [Music] I see your power major. Terrorist. [Music] [Music] [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Thank you. [Music] Here's the strings. Congratulations. [Music] [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] [Music] [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Are [Music] you ready? [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Hallelujah. [Music] Hallelujah. Hallelujah. [Music] Hallelujah. Hallelujah. [Music] Anyone else have no comfortable? Okay. Good. [Music] [Music] Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Hallelujah. Heat. Heat. [Music] I found you. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Beautiful guys. No problem. [Music] Heat. Hey, Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] [Applause] Heat. Heat. [Music] Happy birthday. [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music] This may be our last I'm going to ask [Music] [Music] [Music] Hallelujah. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Happy. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Hallelujah. [Music] [Music] I'm just going to do the first half and I just end the first So we are going to repeating Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Hallelujah. [Music] Heat. Heat. Hallelujah. [Music] [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Hallelujah. Hallelujah. [Music] Are you happy? Heat. Heat. [Music] Thank you. [Music] say goodbye. [Music] Glory. Hallelujah. [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] Heat. Heat. [Music] [Music] Heat. Heat. Hallelujah. Hallelujah. [Music] Follow me. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Ladies and gentlemen, we welcome you to this wonderful occasion of Valor Christian High School's 16th commencement ceremony. This year we will confer diplomas to 286 graduating seniors. Today is a celebration. Please rise in gratitude and respect for the class of 2025. Please continue standing for our national anthem. [Music] Say you see by the dawn early light. What so proudly we held at the twilight last gleaming whose stripes and bright stars through the [Music] per were so gallently streaming and the rockets declare the mercy in gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. Oh, say does that star spangle banner [Applause] yet for the land of the free and the home of God. [Music] [Applause] As graduating seniors, you have accomplished remarkable feats over the past four years. You have navigated rigorous academic challenges, engaged in meaningful extracurricular activities, and contributed to our community with dedication and passion. From excelling in sports and arts to participating in service projects and leadership roles, you have demonstrated resilience, creativity, and determination. Your journey has been marked by personal growth, lasting friendships, and countless memories. As you step forward into the next chapter, you carry with you the knowledge, skills, and experiences that will undoubtedly lead to future success and fulfillment. We are beyond grateful and begin our ceremony with prayers that will be led by Valor Christian seniors and VPs of spiritual life Ellie Kate Ramsay and Christian Chuck Lis. Firstly, um I would like to thank my beautiful family for making it all the way out here. Um your sacrifices, especially you, Mom. Uh, I wouldn't be standing here on this stage without you. So, I love you all. And to the other parents in this room, I hope I speak for every single one of my fellow graduating seniors when I say that none of this would be possible without you all. So, thank you. And now to my fellow classmates. Being on this stage is an honor. And even more than that, these past four years, both inside and outside of the classroom, have been an incredible journey because of you. We are all fortunate to be here in this room and regardless of your experiences these past four years, I hope and pray that we can all say that we've experienced the Lord's grace and love. Class of 2025, from the moment we were born and even before that, God knew that we would be in this room together. Think about that. Every decision, big and small, made by our families, our friends, and ourselves, have led us to this very moment. No two paths were the same, and no two futures will be either. But my prayer for our class is that we can look back on the lives that we have lived so far, the good and the bad, and that we can continue to learn from it. And as we do that, I pray that we may also celebrate the beautiful and precious moments of our future, holding strong to the comfort that Paul points out in 1 Corinthians chapter 10. Paul says, "God is faithful. He will not let you be tempted beyond what you are capable of handing handling. And when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. So, class of 2025, let us go forward in life not being afraid of any uncertainties or sins that we may be struggling with. But instead, let us all go forth in love for one another and love for our incredible God. Because no matter what the world throws at us, we can handle it. Life won't always be easy, but it's a wonderful gift from God. one that each and every one of us have the opportunity to spend following him. Every moment in our lives have led us to this very room. So, so may each and every moment in our futures lead us closer to the Lord so that every person in this room may once again be reunited in the kingdom of heaven. Now, Ellie Kate will lead us all in our opening prayer. Please bow your heads and pray with me. Dear Lord, thank you for the opportunity to come to this school and grow alongside everyone here. Thank you for walking with us through every step of this journey. May we carry the light of wisdom and kindness into the world. And may we always remember where we come came from and who we are becoming. Bless our class, teachers, and families who have supported us alongside the way. guide our hearts as we step into the future with courage, purpose, and hope. We love you and in your name we pray. Amen. Congratulations to the class of 2025. At this time, we would like to convey special honor through a series of awards. There will be four awards in pursuit of excellence followed later in the ceremony by the least of these award and the highest honor of the valor Christian eagle award. In your program you will find a description of each award and the sign significance it carries. Students as your name is announced please come up to the stage to receive your award from one of the directors of the valor Christian board of education. Our first award is the Excellence in Leadership Award, which will be conferred to one female and one male student. These awards will be presented by Valor Christian Board of Education Director, Mrs. Kelly Kennedy. This year's female recipient of the Excellence and Leadership Award demonstrates strong faith, character, integrity, and a unique gift to prepare future leaders to transform the world for Christ. Throughout her time at Valor Christian, she has shown exceptional dedication to leadership and service through student leadership, admissions initiatives, DECA, leading wish week discovery trips, a rigorous set of academic courses, celebrating athletes at pep assemblies, and expressing God's love to students in chapel. Her journey has been marked by resilience as she has moved from navigating challenges to embracing mentorship roles throughout high school, inspiring everyone around her through her leadership and integrity. Whether competing at DECA nationals, organizing events, filling in gaps, sharing the gospel abroad, or celebrating and welcoming younger students, she has shown that leadership is not about titles but about lifting others up and leading with purpose. Her drive, humility, and passion for making a difference have left a lasting legacy for Valor Christian. Please join me in congratulating your student body president and this year's female recipient of the Excellence and Leadership Award, Miss Morgan Minan. [Applause] The Bible's picture of leadership is often at odds with our worldly picture. Rather than lording authority over others, a biblical leader serves others first. Jesus himself told his followers that he did not come to be served but to serve. Therefore, when Christians look for leadership, we don't look for someone exerting power or control, but someone serving others and sacrificing on their behalf. This year's male winner of the excellence and leadership award embodies a serviceoriented others focused leadership style. He is not inclined to put himself first but looks to others. In the hallways, he made everyone feel seen and loved. He would sit with lonely people at lunch. He joined clubs, started clubs, and was always available to serve. He traveled to India and Europe with discovery and was a noted leader on both trips. Even in mistakes and failures, he stays true to who God created him to be. He is a positive example to everyone around him. On the soccer field, the captain badge he wore scarcely signified the depth of his leadership. He did whatever it took to help the team win, but made every player on the pitch better by how he modeled work ethic, positive attitude, and walking out his faith. The same applied in the classroom and the hallways. And we trust it will apply as he leaves this place and heads into what God has next for him. Please join me in congratulating Mr. Fritz Mezer, this year's male winner of excellence in leadership award. [Applause] Our second award is the excellence in spiritual character award which will be conferred to one female and one male student. These awards will be presented by valor Christian board of education director Mrs. Valley Jerome. In his letter to the Philippians, Paul exerts the early Christians as follows. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable. If anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things. This year's female winner of the Excellence in Spiritual Character Award is a student who embodies this verse. She lives a life focused on what is excellent and praiseworthy, and wrapping herself in the true and the pure and the lovely. She is a brilliant theologian and student, but beyond her intellectual gifts, she loves the Lord and obeys him. At Valor, we want our students to believe correctly, live correctly, and love correctly. And over the course of her time at this school, this student has displayed this unity of head, hand, and heart in every aspect of her engagement. Whether she was wa whether she was engaging in deep spiritual conversations in class, walking the northern coast of Spain, exploring the artistic and historical treasures of the church in Rome and Florence, or raising her hands in the art center in our worship band. This young woman has been a blessing to this place. Even in the midst of a difficult year, her faith in God remained resolute and vocal. She is truly the type of student Valor Christian hopes to cultivate and she will continue to bless people for years to come beyond these walls. It is with great honor that we recognize this year's female recipient of the Excellence in Spiritual Character Award, Miss Kyla Streker. This year's male recipient to the Excellence in Spiritual Character Award stands as a remarkable example of authentic Christian faith in action. His life is a consistent reflection of Christ's love both in word and deed. He is known among his peers and faculty for his vibrant and contagious faith and he con consistently exemplifies the fruit of the spirit in his joy, kindness, patience and humility which are evident in his daily interactions. His commitment to serving others was powerfully displayed by serving on three different discovery trips. The most recent of which he served as a chaplain for the team. He also started a weekly Bible study for his peers where he selflessly gave his time and energy to deepen community among his classmates. Through this initiative, he has encouraged others to grow in their walk with Christ and fostered meaningful spiritual conversations across the Valor Christian campus. In every way, this student reflects Jesus Christ. His actions, demeanor, and love for others make his faith unmistakable. He lives not for personal recognition but to glorify God. Please join me in congratulating this year's male recipient of the Excellence in Spiritual Character Award, Mr. Christian Chocolus. [Applause] Our third award is the excellence in athletic distinction award which will be conferred to one female and one male student. These awards will be presented by Valor Christian Board of Education Director, Mr. Daniel Ramirez. This year's female recipient of excellence in athletic distinction is a young woman whose time at Valor Christian reflects both athletic excellence and a a deep growing faith in God. Her accomplishments rival the best in school history. multiple individual, league, regional, and state championships. In 34 high school tournaments, she claimed 17 victories, placed in the top five in 33 tournaments, and never finished outside the top 10. She's a repeat winner as the state player of the year, recently selected for team Colorado in the USGA National Development Program, and earned a scholarship to play at the University of Colorado. She has been a leader from the start, guiding her team to league titles and state championships. Her leadership is marked by humility, commitment, and a selfless approach to both teammates and competitors. Coaches, administrators, and players across the state regularly praise her sportsmanship and kindness. Yet, beyond her athletic success, she has endured great personal loss. through unimaginable grief. Her strength, faith, and grace have been unwavering. Valor Christian is proud to honor her not only as an elite athlete, but as a remarkable young woman of character. Valor Christian, please congratulate Miss Brena Higgins for receiving the 2025 Excellence in Athletic Distinction Award. [Applause] a dedicated student athlete and leader. Our male recipient of excellence in athletic distinction exemplifies what it means to pursue excellence in every aspect of life. As a senior, he has consistently demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, maintaining a rigorous course load, and his commitment to learning is matched by his tireless work ethic both in and out of the classroom. A fierce competitor, he has earned respect not only for his impressive performances and leadership on the team, but also for the discipline and determination he brings to every practice and race. His drive to push beyond limits has resulted in notable finishes this season, including a sub5minute 5K, fifth place finish at the 5A Colorado State race, and helping the team to a fifth place finish at the Nike XC Southwest. He is known for the sincere and steady faith that guides his actions and decisions. Whether encouraging teammates, serving in his school, or mentoring young students, he leads with humility and integrity reflecting Christ in both word and deed. His character, grit, and devotion make him a remarkable young man worthy of the award. He is a testament to how faith, focus, and perseverance can shape a life of purpose and impact. Valor Christian, please congratulate Mr. Kaden Dendorfer for receiving the 2025 Excellence in Athletic Distinction Award. [Applause] Our fourth award this afternoon is the excellence in artistic expression award which will be conferred to one performing arts student and one visual arts student. These awards will be presented by Valor Christian Board of Education Director Mr. Perry Camill. Each year, the Excellence in Artistic Expression Award is given to students who embody the highest ideals of Valor Christian Arts and Media, a deep commitment to creative growth, an uncommon level of artistic excellence, and most importantly, a vibrant faith in Jesus Christ that shapes their art, their relationships, and their presence in our community. This year's recipient of the Performing Arts Artistic Expression Award has been a beacon of light in every corner of the Valor Christian Arts world. As a gifted singer, musician, and songwriter, she has helped shape the very soul of our songwriting program. Faithfully investing four years of hard work, creativity, and spiritual maturity into her craft. Her original songs have earned VMA nominations and awards and have been recorded and released through the Loftide Studio. She has served Valor Christian through leading on the worship team, participating in Valor Voice, and as a leader in the performing arts conservatory and has been involved in nearly every mainstage production during her time at Valor. Each time she steps on the stage while alone or with others, whether singing or strumming her guitar, she reflects a heart anchored in Christ and remains a steady, authentic, and grounded positive influence on the community around her. She has shaped the culture of our arts program and has made it a better place for all students. The depth of her talent is evident and her ability to display the fruits of the spirit in what can be a competiti a competitive environment is inspiring. It is my great honor to announce this year's recipient of the excellence in artistic expression award for her achievements in the performing arts to Miss Anukica Ringnalda. For our recipient in the visual arts, teachers describe her as a strong and steady force, someone with quiet confidence and always an insightful thought to share. She is constantly creating and the arts have been her true home. Over the past four years, she has earned an impressive 11 and a half arts credits and is graduating with distinction from both the visual and performing arts conservatories. She's participated in arts trips to Oregon, Moab, and Santa Fe, and is known for being allin with everything she does. Her unique gift is the ability to draw connections between her creativity and all areas of her life, especially her relationship with Jesus. Over the past two years, she has poured hundreds of hours into creating a 78page Japanese manga, a monumental project for her AP art and design class. The work required storytelling, character design, and countless illustrations. Despite its complexity, her mission was clear in her own words. I wanted to create something to share my faith as a Christian, hopefully drawing other people in so that they become inspired to learn more about God. Her artwork inspires awe and wonder rooted deeply in truth and beauty. Please join me in recognizing the 2025 recipient of the Excellence in Artistic Expression for Visual Arts, Miss Dawson Fox. [Applause] At this time, we will recognize our honored scholars. I want to draw your attention to the graduates wearing a white cord. This cord identifies those who have achieved a weighted cumulative grade point exceeding a 4.25. These exceptional students are now members of the Suma Cumlad Society. They will join a successive list of honored Valor Christian graduates. Graduates, please stand as I call your name and remain standing until all names are announced. And audience, do your best to hold your applause until all have been recognized. Benjamin Bartles, Trevor Chaplain, Edward Chin, Kyra Christensen, Haley Cornella, Sophia Krower, Samantha Denine, Audrey Nner, Kayn Erler, Sydney Erler, Elsa Fong, Drake Gertis, Ryan Greenfield, Isabella Heidman, Luke Johnson, Henry Johnston, Isabella Jones, Jones, James Kettler, Reagan Kim, Martin Kovichev, Luke Larson, Rush Lel, Mia Lrand, Sophie Louu, Harrison Lewong, Ryan Mandez, Jake Maris, Breck Massie, Kaden May, Fritz Megar, Jack Mohler, Anna Mononttoya, Julia Pellar, Chase Pistnik, Ryan Peters, Isabella Soich, Amanda Stevens, Kyla Streker, Evelyn Talbert, Christian Thirststone, Aiden Tochini, Emma Van Braimemer, Aaliyah Van Gelder, McKenzie Walker, Mason Walters, Porter Warren, Isabella Webster, Bradley Williams, Madison Wong, Darren Wright, and Isaac Yang. All right, congratulations to the class of 2025 Sumakum Laad students. Ladies and gentlemen, it is now my pleasure to introduce to you an exceptional student who has truly distinguished himself as the highest ranking member of the class of 2025. With an array of academic accomplishments and an unwavering dedication to excellence, Mr. Asa Thirststone has earned the esteemed title of validictorian. In a moment, Asa will come to the stage and deliver his address, but I want to spend just a minute reflecting on his accomplishments. Asa's academic achievements are nothing short of exceptional. Boasting a cumulative GPA of 4.65, 65. He has consistently demonstrated his intellectual prowess. Notably, he has successfully completed 12 advanced placement courses and an impressive total of 11 honors or dual credit college level courses. Asa is clearly dedicated to academic rigor. But more than that, Asa is a young man marked by faithfulness, humility, and kindness. His love for Jesus is evident in the quiet consistency of his character through his deep knowledge of scripture and church history, the well-worn pages of his Bible, and the weekly Bible studies he leads for his peers. A steady and humble leader, he lets his actions speak, earning the trust of classmates and teachers alike. Early on, Asab was named Valor Christian's 9th grade student leader of the year. And that thoughtful leadership has only deepened over time. In the classroom, his knowledge is never held for himself alone. Out of the abundance of his understanding, Asa pours into others, offering help, useful context, and encouragement when the material felt too challenging for his classmates. He gave of his time freely and joyfully, always seeking the good of others. Asa also demonstrates remarkable initiative beyond the classroom. Passionate about pursuing a career in medicine, he has shadowed physicians at Denver Health. He actually just told me this in the atrium. Uh but he has co-authored a published article in a medical journal in high school. Uh he Asa is also bilingual in English and Spanish and became the first student in Valor Christian's history to earn the global seal of biiteracy working fluency during his junior year. Along with his family, he has also hosted two French students visiting Colorado from Denver's sitter sister city, Breast, France. Asa worked with Valor Christian faculty and other student volunteers to help those young visitors enjoy their Colorado stay, deepening and formalizing a relationship between Valor Christian and a high school in Breast. He has served three times on the Mexico Medical Mission trip and has competed on Valor's tennis team. Asa's life is a testimony to quiet strength, faithful pursuit, and servant-hearted leadership. And is with great joy we honor him as the 2025 validictorian. Now, join me in welcoming Asa to the stage for a validictorian address. faculty, staff, parents, friends, and fellow graduates of Balor Christian High School. It is my great honor to speak with you this afternoon. I'm Asa, and this fall I'm heading off to Wheaten College to major in biblical and theological studies with an Equitas Fellowship in global public health, all with hopes of later attending medical school. I'm also a speaker of English and Spanish and a lover of liberal arts education because it gives me so much freedom to explore the world to bring breadth and depth to my understanding of humanity. And when those liberal arts are taught by worldrenowned and devout Christian scholars, even better. I hope my practice of medicine will also be my ministry to help others flourish in mind, body, heart, and spirit, no matter their circumstances. I want to be a doctor with even half of my physician father's wisdom, knowledge, and compassion. My journalist mother's courage, sense of justice, and generosity. My valor graduate sister Tatum's abilities to make friends instantly through her command of second language and tennis, and her impeccable fashion sense. To my parents and sister, thank you. I love you. Now, it really is pretty strange standing up here. After four years of studying, test taking, and careful adherence to the highly sacred ritual of procrastination, I'm tasked with summarizing the journey we call high school and imparting a memorable sendoff into the big bold world ahead of us. While writing this speech, I asked myself, self, what qualifies us to speak to our class or even on behalf of it? And do you know what I came up with? Nothing. Nothing qualifies me except that our school's leadership handed me a microphone. Nevertheless, I hope you'll hear me out because this momentous occasion is our big chance to celebrate together one last time. And yes, let's absolutely celebrate student achievement. But please also join me today, right here and right now in a celebration of our collective commitment to set priorities that give God our first fruits. In gosh, in the Old Testament, the first fruits were the best and earliest portions of the harvest which were offered to God as a gesture of devotion and trust. And when you take a look at the law of Moses, you'll be struck by the importance of it all, the specificity and the precision, the order of how to give God our first 10%. So, it's very clear that this is very important to God. He's not interested in our leftovers. And he's not interested in anything less than. For me, that means not giving God the scraps of my energy, time, and attention, but the very best. Well, let's be honest. High school didn't always bring out our finest fruits. Sometimes we gave our teachers our 80% best, and sometimes our homework are 20% best. And we don't even have to get into what it was like when senioritis came around. But I focus on this theme of first fruit because again it is so important to God and it is all at the same time our great privilege and the least we can do as thanks to him. My pastor once said in a sermon the biggest disparity the biggest injustice in the whole universe is what God has due and what we actually bring him. So, Balor Christian High School class of 2025, let our response to the call of giving God our finest portion always be filled with joy, thoughtfulness, and discipline. And I would like to thank you now in advance for what I believe all of you guys are going to do to bring your very best first fruits to God. To those of you stepping into ministry, thank you for choosing a path that demands faith, resilience, and the strength to stand against persecution of Christians that is rising around the world. May your first fruits be marked not just by words, but by the steady and unyielding presence of someone who trusts God enough to serve without needing to be seen. To those of you committed to military service, thank you for offering to God your first fruits in the form of yourselves and your willingness to defend our Constitution and the freedoms we enjoy. John 15:13 reads, "Greater love has no one than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends. Your commitment exhibits the greatest kind of love." Thank you to those of you in the 7% of US high school athletes who go on to play college varsity sports. Thank you for taking your first fruits to God on the field or on the court or track as competitors who play with integrity and fairness. Thank you for using your platform to share your faith with boldness and for reflecting God's glory in how you train, lead, and lift others up on and off the scoreboard. To those of you who are artists and creatives, thank you for taking time. Thank you for taking to God your first fruits in art, music, writing or design as sacred offerings. In every stroke and sound, you reflect the greatest artist who made beauty not as luxury but as language. Your work makes space for truth, awe, and wonder and the divine. Leland Reichen, professor emeritus of English at Wheaten College, writes, "Christians are not merely consumers of culture, but co-creators with God. We are called to redeem culture by producing art, literature, and the ideas that reflect his truth and beauty, transforming the world for his glory." For those of you entering the workforce immediately, thank you for building with your labor a foundation of purpose and integrity. Thank you for showing through your work ethic first fruits of reliability, compassion, and kindness for others on the job and the kind of faith that is lived more than spoken. Professor Reichen also wrote, "For the Christian, work is an act of worship when it is done as unto the Lord. This transforms the workplace into a sphere where faith shapes our attitudes and actions. And to those of you who are academic eggheheads like me, thank you for worshiping God with all your mind, may we never forget that discovering truth is itself an act of worship. Distinguished philosopher Arthur F. Holmes, another longtime Weaten College professor, says, "The scholars love for truth becomes an expression of love for God. May your first fruits be gleaned from intellectual pursuits shaped by discipline, critical inquiry, comprehensive understanding, and sound reasoning. All of which bring God to light. And to all of us, the entire Valor class of 2025, may we not retreat from culture, but engage it with discernment. Let us commit to keeping our minds, bodies, and souls sober from the influence of substances, people, and other forces that often very quietly tempt us to bring something less than to God. As Weaten College president and professor of theology, Philip Reichen, writes, "Live with clarity and courage, letting the truth of Christ guide your choices in a world of distraction." And maybe by now you're picking up what I'm putting down about the brilliant minds who choose to cheer for the Wheaten Thunder. And as much as I want to end this speech with another quote from someone from Wheaten, I'll let God have the last word of encouragement to us moving forward. This comes from Jeremiah 9:es 23 and 24. This is what the Lord says. Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, nor the strong man in his strength, nor the wealthy man in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who exercises loving devotion, justice, and righteousness on the earth. For I delight in these things. And now, Valor Christian High School class of 2025, congratulations. May we go into the world with a firm commitment to bring God the first, best, and finest portion of everything we have. May God's light shine brightly through us to heal, shape, and transform this world for Christ and his kingdom. Thank you. [Applause] Continuing now with our awards, we bestow an award entitled the least of these, recognizing one female and one male student with an exceptional pursuit of service. These awards will be presented by Valor Christian Board of Education Director, Mrs. Leanne Nicas. The female recipient of the least of these awards is the kind of student who quietly makes a big impact. She is thoughtful, has a heart for service, and she gives of herself with quiet strength and deep love. She loves the Lord and wrestles with ways she should live out scripture, not just through service, but in everyday life. On one of her two discovery experiences in India, her team spent a day in service to local children. While most of the team gravitated towards the energetic young kids, this student found her way to a group of teenage girls on the outside looking in. These girls were a broken and marginalized part of India's female population. The student sat with the girls. Her intentional presence made them feel seen and valued. She listened intently and then without drama or spotlight, she shared with them her own story. The moment was vulnerable, brave, and powerful. And it's one that happened because this student just keeps following the Lord as she leads her to others. We are honored to recognize this year's female recipient of the least of these awards, Miss Bella Soich. The male recipient of the least of these awards is someone who has eyes for the needs of those around him as well as the ways God is working in the moment. In his time in discovery, he intentionally selected experiences that would stretch him. By the time he traveled to India as a senior, he'd grown in depth and capacity for love. In India, he connected deeply with God, his peers, and the people he was there to serve. He leaned in with a willingness to be refined, to be honest, and to let others walk alongside him in the process. A gifted student in Valor's Christians STEM program, he leads with his brains and hands, but he also leads with his heart. He is often the first to say, "I got it." and rarely needs to be asked. Whether he is loading bags, solving a tech issue, or stepping up for others, he sees the need and meets it. He always has the first to arrive and the last to leave. And in between, he's doing the quiet, faithful work of serving others without needing credit. We are honored to recognize this year's male recipient of the least of these awards, Mr. Ryan Peters. [Applause] Finally, our Valor Christian Eagle Award is conferred to one female and one male student who post fully embodies our vision of a Valor Christian graduate. These awards will be presented by the chairman of the Valor Christian Board of Directors, Mr. Kevin Mcaney. Our female Eagle Award recipient exemplifies what it means to be a Valor Christian graduate, making her a deeply deserving recipient, a leader both in and out of the classroom. She brings a spirit of excellence, humility, and faith to everything she does. As a varsity soccer player, she leads with determination, teamwork, and resilience. In her role as president of the DECA business club, she inspires her peers with vision, professionalism, and a passion for learning. Beyond the walls of Valor Christian, she has actively participated in Valor's discovery program and is deeply invested in her church committee or community where she serves faithfully and lives out her vibrant faith with authenticity and grace. even leading the effort to attend church with her peers while at way at events. Her character is marked by consistency, integrity, and a heart for others. She leads as Christ leads gently, boldly, and with compassion. Her commitment to academic excellence, servant leadership, and wholehearted involvement in Valor Christian's community makes her a standout student and a true embodiment of the Eagle Award. We are honored to recognize this year's female recipient of the Eagle Award, Miss Emma Van Brahma. Brana [Applause] This year's male recipient of the Eagle Award leads with the heart and humility of Christ, setting an example for others through both action and attitude for what it means to embody Valor Christian's vision for our graduates. With a deep commitment to ac academic excellence, he approaches learning with diligence and integrity, consistently giving his best in every area of study. Beyond the classroom, this student was fully engaged in co-curricular activities, playing on the varsity soccer team, and investing time and energy with a spirit of teamwork, joy, and servant leadership. What sets this student apart is the consistency of character that emanates in his actions and attitudes. Whether he is exemplifying diligent work ethic at school, serving in Guatemala, Guatemala in discovery, or simply encouraging a friend, he reflects the love and grace of Christ in a way that is genuine and uplifting. His vibrant faith is evident in the way he has consistently treated others with respect, compassion, and humility. Above all else, this student has led and served out of a desire to love God with his heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love his neighbor as himself. Please join me in congratulating this year's male recipient of the Eagle Award, Mr. Brennan Bower. And now it brings me great pleasure to introduce our commencement speaker. As you know, Valor has four pillars the school was founded on, including academics, arts, athletics, and our missions focused discovery program. For those of you who do not know, the discovery program was launched by Terry Adams. His vision was to provide transformational experiences to students that were designed to develop and strengthen their faith through service. His passion was community outreach and service to the poor. Since our very first experience in India in 2008, more than 4,700 students have served on 317 experiences in 46 countries and six continents. This past year, Discovery sent out more than 400 students on almost 30 teams across the state, the nation, and the world. These trips have profoundly deepened our students faith, sparked genuine transformation, and led families to Christ. They've fostered lasting relationships and expanded the reach of the church. I have no doubt that when Terry eventually returns home, and I pray that day is far in the future, God will greet him with the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant." Please join me in welcoming Mr. Terry Adams. [Applause] Thank you, Brian. Distinguished members of the board of education, Mr. Ritz, my esteemed colleagues at Valor, parents, family members, and friends of graduating seniors, and to the 2025 graduating class. It's an honor and privilege to speak before you today. Seniors, you are about to graduate. You want to be happy, successful, wealthful, wealthy, have a great family, live long, and have meaning and purpose. Well, how do you do that? Jesus spoke to the crowd on the sermon on the mount 2,000 years ago who wondered the same thing. What about my future? What about my needs? And what he said to them applies to you and to all of us today. Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things will be added unto you. This is truth. Biblically, love is a word of action. Jesus says again and again and again, this is love for me that you obey my commands. And he goes on to say, "His greatest command is to love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength, and to love one another as Christ loved us." You have seen Discovery's tagline all around Valor campus daily. It's on t-shirts, water bottles, journals, sling sacks, and so many more things. Well, this morning my message or this afternoon my message to you that I hope you'll remember because it's just a sw slight twist of that and that is to know go serve and transform to know what to know who to know God and that he is the source of all wisdom and discernment to know the truth and that Jesus is truth and the provider and source of all truth. Think about this for a moment. If you don't know truth, you really don't know anything at all. And with AI and so many supposed truth peddlers these day in so-called news sources and social media, it's more important than ever that we have wisdom and discernment and truth. And these alone come from God. The Bible says, "Be on your guard as to not be carried away by falsehood, but grow in grace and the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." We know God through his word, in prayer, his spirit, by following his commands, by loving him with all of our being. 2025 graduating seniors, if you want the good life, you must spend time in God's word. His word is truth. It will lead us to know and love God and to love and serve one another. Go where? Go to where God leads you. Go into all the world and share the good news. Love God and serve others, especially the poor and the marginalized. You know, this is a commandment that God makes hundreds of times throughout scripture to us. You know, there's this terrible misconception about what a Christian is and that their life is this mambby pami thing of nos and knots. No, you can't do this. No, you can't be successful. No, you can't have fun. No, you can't be happy. when nothing could be further from the truth. And I speak from experience. I grew up as a poor farm boy and by the grace of God, I became a successful businessman for 22 years. 25 years ago, God called me into ministry. And I have been blessed to be able to travel to over 100 countries where I've met some of the most compelling, incredible men and women of God you can possibly imagine that are leading the most exciting lives that you can imagine. By God's grace, my children love God and they follow God and they are successful in business and medicine. People who love and follow God can leave lead successful and exciting lives in every sport, profession, trade, service, and ministry. And these things happened because we chose to love and follow God and serve others instead of our personal pleasures and the pursuit of wealth and success. God says that we must go wherever he calls us and places us, sharing God and his love near and far. Serve. Love and service go hand in hand. If you want to flourish and have meaning, live a life of service. If you want a successful career, serve. If you want a successful marriage, serve your spouse. If you want to be happy, learn to serve. But it matters who we serve. If it is serving yourself, you will ultimately be lonely and depressed. Even if by chance you are wealthy and successful, we live in a world of instant gratification which is portrayed as a good life because quite frankly some of it feels pretty good. But if we're not anchored in Christ, it ultimately becomes vacuous and empty. We will not find our identity in consumerism and self-image only in Jesus Christ. Transform. You must be transformed to transform. God has a plan for your life. Seek him and seek his plan for your life. 220 of you have served on nearly 400 transformational discovery experiences. And I know in the four years that you've been here, you have been transformed. Whether it's in the classroom, in arts, in athletics, our faculty, staff, and coaches have poured into you, loved and served you, and given you transformational experiences. You have heard, seen, and experienced a clear presentation of the gospel, and have been given multiple chances to respond to Jesus questions. Do you love me? Will you follow me? When you arrive at college, please listen to this. Surround yourself with others who follow Jesus. And I promise you, I promise you, you will have more peace in your life, better friendships, fewer regrets, and you'll flourish more in college and beyond. You know, we all make mistakes and stumble in many ways. The Bible says that we must forget what lies behind and reach forward for what lies ahead to press on toward the goal, the upward call of God in Jesus Christ. God is able to do far more abundantly than we can possibly ask or imagine. So move forward passionately. Step out in faith. Take risk. Perhaps you'll fail. That's okay. Get up and try again. Difficulties develop grit and perseverance. Oswald Chamber in today's reading of his famous devotional, My Utmost for His Highest, says difficulties either make us sweeter, better, nobler, or make us more critical, fault-f finding, and insistent on having our own way. They make us more evil or more saintly depending upon our relationship with God and our level of intimacy. God calls some of us into vocational ministry, but he calls all of us and all of you into a lifetime of love and service to him and others. So tomorrow's leaders know go serve and transform the world for Christ. Thank you. So thank you for those inspirational words, Terry. Um, I don't know how many of you know this, but um, uh, Terry has been with us since the start of Valor and, uh, obviously from his own words, having a a career in finance for 30 years and then in ministry for 25 years. I don't know if you violated any teen work laws or anything, Terry, but um, he is retiring at the end of this year. We're losing a great man of of the faith. In addition, uh Jim Kersner also uh has been with us uh since the start of Valor and is retiring as well. Um I would just love everybody just give a round of applause. They have been foundational Well, graduates, we have arrived at that time. In just a moment, we will call each of you by name, invite you to the stage, and confer to you the diploma of Valor Christian High School. I have a few advanced instructions. The student deans will cue your lineup alphabetically as you proceed to the stage on my left. As you come onto the stage, Mr. Kaufman will hand you your diploma and then you will make your way to me where a photographer will take a picture. We will provide photographs to each family at a later time. So, we ask you the only take individual pictures after the ceremony. As you exit the stage, Mr. Taiwatson will turn your tassel and then you can return to your seat. The faculty and staff join me in congratulating the class of 2025 on your academic achievement and we desire this commencement ceremony will be a fitting conclusion to this phase of your education. Our Valor Christian commencement ceremony is by its very nature a festive occasion. The festivity manifests itself in many ways, including the dress of the students, the faculty adorned in academic regalia, and the warmth, joy, and satisfaction of accomplishment. The ceremony is also marked by seriousness where the actual conferring of diplomas signifies long hard work on the part of everyone involved. In signifying the thoughtful nature of the ceremony, students, participants, parents, and guests are requested to rem maintain a measured of decorum consistent with this occasion. The valor community requests that audience participation be that of respectful celebration, honoring the commitment to learning and the fulfillment of dreams shared by all diploma candidates that today walk across the stage. We also recognize this place we are in as a hall of worship for Cherry Hills Community Church and we seek to bring honor to this place in respectful appreciation of our friends and partners in ministry. We thank you in advance for respecting the dignity and importance of this occasion. Please hold your applause until the last student is named in each group. Members of the board of education, at this time it is with great privilege and honor that I convey to you as head of school that these students have met the requirements of graduation from Valor Christian High School. And I hereby instruct one of our director of academics, Mr. Toby Kaufman, to confer to each of them their diploma in fulfillment of all graduation requirements. Students, we are all very proud of you. Please come forth at this time and be recognized for your achievement. Ezekiel Aguero, University of Oklahoma. Z Amaro, Lindenwood University. Ava Anderson, University of Oklahoma. Bianca Anderson, Abalene Christian University. Justin Anderson, Dort University. Sophia Andreeski, Belmont University. Ben Anikstein, Colorado State University, PBLO. Jackson Ana, Colorado School of Minds. Carlina Ardell, Texas Christian [Applause] University. Emma Arthur, Savannah College of Art and Design. Race Baird, University of Nebraska, Omaha. William Balor, Auburn University. Parker Barheight, Colgate University. Benjamin Bartell's Colorado School of Minds. Justin Barind, Illinois Institute of Technology. Brendan Bower, University of Colorado, Boulder. Chase Baxter, Auburn University. Jace Beal, Arizona State University. Savannah Beamguard, University of Colorado, Boulder. Riley Beers, Belmont University. Ryan Bennett, Florida GF Coast University. Serena Bisaria, Kraton University. Reese Blanchard, Auburn University. Ben Blasco, Farm College. Sophia Bassard, University of Tampa. [Applause] Luke Brado, Wheaton College. Abigail Braimemer, Otterbine University. Nathan Bramer, University of Wisconsin, Oaklair. Broen Breeze, San Diego State University. Harrison Bronson, University of San Diego. Bethany Brooks, Grand Canyon University. Allison Brown, Purdue University. [Applause] Brighgam Brown, Vernon College. Connor Brown, University of Colorado, Boulder. Jack Brown, Colorado State University, PBLO. Andrew Buckold, Concordia University, Nebraska. Zachary Buckold, Otterbine [Applause] University. Emerson Budro, Auburn University. Addison Beer, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. Austin Burke, Univer or excuse me, Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Braden Burke, Arizona State University. Callen Campbell, Colorado School of Minds. Megan Carlson, Auburn University. Ally Kavanaaugh, University of Kansas. Trevor Chaplain, University of Colorado, Boulder. Jacob Chase Cho, University of Nebraska, Lincoln. Edward Chen, University of Michigan. Kira Christensen, University of Richmond. Conrad Clay, Grand Canyon [Music] University. Paige Coleman, Kraton University. Morgan Connor, Belmont [Applause] University. Logan Cooper, undecided. Sophie Corbett, Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Haley Cornella, Villanova University. Maddox Castales, University of Nebraska, Lincoln. Judah Krooks, Ferman University. Sophia Krower, Texas Tech University. Char Dawson, Belmont University. Taylor Dean, Texas A&M University. Benjamin Dour, Grand Canyon University. Sienna Deetto, Auburn University. Thomas Degra, University of Dayton. Paloma Delianis, Forom [Applause] University. Madison Demink, Gardener Webb University. Kaden Dendorfer, Butler [Applause] University. Caroline Dennis, University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Damian Desidario, University of Notre Dame. Samantha Denine, University of Texas, Austin. Charlie Disbro, University of Oregon. Austin Donaldson, Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Christopher Dudzik, Dartmouth College. Hannah Dupant, Oklahoma City [Applause] University. Jack Edgar, Bates College, Connor Egan, the Ohio State University. Bella ID, Palm Beach Atlantic University. Addie Isis, University of Kansas. Khloe Ellerton, University of Georgia. Wyatt Emory, Texas Christian University. Audrey Entner, Cedarville University. Kayn Erler, University of Chicago. Sydney Erler, Lehi University. Ava Edeto, Kraton University. Rocky Federico Jr., Colorado Christian University. Gavin Fel, University of San [Music] Diego. Kate Fen, University of California, Baptist. Elijah Fischer, University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Lauren Fitz Simmons, Baylor University. Ryan Fleet Meer, Southern Methodist University. Hero Folultz, Lagona College of Art and Design. Elsa Fong, Vanderbilt University. Dawson Fox, University of Denver. [Applause] Mois Freeman, Iowa Western. Jake Fritzell, Arizona State University. Gracie Fulton, Grand Canyon University. Kiara Gabbar, Santa Clara University. Brooke Gallup, Kansas State University. Drake Gertis, University of Colorado, Boulder. Noel Gibson, Grand Canyon University. Corwin Gilbert, Colorado School of Minds. Zoe Glass, Belmont University. Ryan Greenfield, Vanderbilt University. Jordis Gidri, Caro State University, Fort Collins. Grace Guml, Auburn University. Evan Hackard, University of Oklahoma. [Applause] Cooper Haniman, University of Oklahoma. [Music] [Applause] Marggo Harry, Kraton University. Georgia Hos, Auburn University. Simon Hawk, Auburn University. Owen Hawinson, United States Army Enlisted. Keane Hazeligs, Auburn University. Isabella Haidaman, Mercer University. [Applause] Peter Heightman, Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Benjamin Herbeck, Hun School of Princeton. Brena Higgins, University of Colorado, Boulder. Libby Hyle, Dennis University. Ronan Hersshfield, University of Mississippi. Hannah Hoffman, Baylor University. Alexis Holm, High Point University. Alexa Hubing, Santa Clara University. [Applause] Peter Hurley, University of Oklahoma. Maggie Hibbeck, University of Colorado, Boulder. Drew Jenkins, University of Arizona. Ra Jerome, Laguna College of Art and Design. Lincoln Jessen, University of Colorado, Boulder. Abigail Jimenez, Charleston Southern University. Luke Johnson, the University of Texas, Austin. Henry Johnston, University of Colorado, Boulder. Isabella Jones, John's Hopkins University. Ashton Joseph, Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Nathan Catchmar, University of Pittsburgh. Anderson Cavo, University of Missouri. Daniel Kelly, University of Oklahoma. James Kettler, Colorado Christian University. Savannah Khan, Samford University. Emma Kim, University of Colorado, [Music] Boulder. Reagan Kim, University of Colorado, Boulder. Everett Kimell, Bringham Young University. Noah King, Montana State University. Martin Kovichev, Andrews University, Kellen Cring, University of Colorado, Boulder. Josie Kckler, Heritage Col Heritage School of Interior Design. Ian Krombine, Montana State University. Lauren Cubik, University of Arkansas. Callie Colby, High Point University. Keller Kuna, Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Campbell Kirkindall, University of Utah. Claire Lambert, Hendricks College. Alexandria Lancaster, Belmont University. Noah Landon, Colorado School of Minds. Lucas Larson, University of California, Santa Barbara. At this time, please welcome our senior musicians and vocalists who will be performing Good Plans. [Applause] The Lord is my shepher. shepherd and he is everything I need. So why would I worry I will not fear the enemy. He said that he loves me. He said that he's with me even though I walk through the valley of shadow and death. And still I know he has good plans. He has good plans for me. So I will take heart in deserts and he has good plans. He has good plans for me. If I know my father, I know my father has the place. The Lord is my savior. So why would I doubt my victory? Why would I question the rod and the staff that comforts me? He quiets the waters. He quiets the storm inside of me. So what could be better than walking with him when I need? He has goodness. He has goodness for me. So I will take heart in deserts and garden. He has good plans. He has good plans for me. If I know my father, I know my father has [Music] good Surely your goodness and mercy will follow after me. So fear will I find me cuz I'll be dwelling in the house of God. Surely your goodness and mercy will follow after me. So you will not find me cuz I'll be dwelling in the house of God surely. Your goodness and mercy will follow after me. So be willing cuz I'll be dwelling in the house of God. Surely your goodness and mercy will follow after me. So fear well and find me cuz I'll be dwelling in the house of God. He has good plans. He has good plans for me. So I will take God [Music] in. He has good plans. He has good plans for me. If I know my father, I know my father has goodness. If I know my father, I know my father has confessed. [Music] [Applause] Rush Lel, United States Military Academy at West Point. Satie Lee, Graceland [Applause] University. Mia Lrand, University of Notre Dame. Sophia Limebach, University of Alabama. Mo Lewis, Gapier, Competitive Skiing. Sophie Lou, Boston University. Addie Lloyd, University of Arkansas, Little Rock. Tabby Lockwood, University of Arizona. Cameron Lawer, Grand Canyon University. Mia Lozano, California Polytenic State University. San Louis Oispo Natalia Ledbin Kraton University Harrison Luang Harvard University Brady Lions University of Arkansas Luis Mensia Colorado State University Fort Collins Jake Mandis, University of St. Andrews. Ryan Mandis, Princeton University. Luke Mangan, University of Colorado, Boulder. [Applause] Jack Maris, University of Colorado, Boulder. Breck Massie, Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Max Matuchi, Gateway Community College. Julianne Man, Brigham Young University. Evan Maurice, Concordia University, Wisconsin. Kayen May, University of Colorado, Boulder. Delaney McCullum, Scripps College. Paige McCllum, University of Mississippi. Allison McDonald, University of Nebraska, Lincoln. Kinsey McGatlin, Louisiana State University. Alexandra Mlin, University of Alabama. Morgan McNagal, University of Oregon. Fritz Mezer, Wake University. Bronson Miller, University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Juny Miller, University of Colorado, Boulder. Morgan Minahan, San Diego State University. Abby Mitiga, California Polytenic State University, San Louis Abyispo. Ryan Mida, University of Colorado, Boulder. Jack Mohler, Auburn University. Reys Mhler, University of Mississippi. Kale Monahan, Colorado School of Minds. Alexander Mononttoya, University of Colorado, Boulder. Anna Mononttoya, University of Colorado, Boulder. Samantha Mononttoya, University of Colorado, Boulder. Graham Morris, Montana State University. Brady Most, High Point University. Addison Ness, Clemson University. Piper Non Lawrence, Texas A&M University. Colby Norwood, Auburn University. Sarah Integ, University of Colorado, Boulder. Ian Ollen, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. Ryan Oanchinski, University of Alabama. Alex Pacheco, University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Kale Pankoski, University of Colorado, Denver. Blake Pancrretz, University of Northern Iowa. Megan Poli, Baylor University. Sophia Pollson, University of Colorado, Boulder. Julia Pellar, University of California, San Diego. Chase Pestonik, University of Colorado, Boulder. Ava Peters, University of Oklahoma. Ryan Peters, Texas A&M University. [Applause] Brock Peterson, University of Utah. Isabella Fan, University of Colorado, Boulder. Charlie Plord, University of [Applause] Arizona. Connor Piti, Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Anderson Porch, Clemson University. Emma Jane Porch, Auburn University. [Music] Nicholas Pit, College of Charleston. [Applause] Juliet Reagan, Elon University. Ellie Kate Ramsey, Grand Canyon University. Kila Ray, University of Arizona. George Ryder IVth, Monmouth University. Brooklyn Rice, Grand Canyon University. Anukica Riggnalda, Lipkcom University. Skyler Rushton Roach, Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Jack Rooric, Auburn University. Sam Routson, Chapman University. Medina Shler, Pen West University, Clarion. Cole Sher, Eastern Washington University. Owen Skiimhorn, Bentley University. Olivia Schmidt, Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Lauren Schultz, William and Mary. Lucas Scott, California, Polytenic State University, St. Louis Abyspo. Hayden Seymour, University of Illinois, Urbana Champagne. Zack Shadwick, University of Oklahoma. Amelia Sears, University of Colorado, Boulder. Madison Smith, San Diego State University. [Music] Elliot Smith, University of Kentucky. Isabella Soich, Texas&M University. [Applause] Bella Spence, PointLoma Nazarene University. Delaney Stafford, University of Louisville. Elise Steel, Gapier [Music] [Applause] Employment. Amanda Stevens, Stanford University. Lauren Stevens, University of Mississippi. [Applause] Ava Stewart, Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Carter Stingley, University of Nebraska, Lincoln. Sadie Stone, Texas A&M University. Kyla Streker, Colorado Christian University. Enzo Swan, Auburn University. Ellie Thai, Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Evelyn Talbert, University of Michigan. Cole Tankersley, the University of Texas, Austin. Asa Thirststone, Wheaton College. Aiden Tochini, University of Notre Dame. Christian Chakalakus, High Point University. Bailey Tyerski, the University of Alabama. Greta Yolman, Emory [Applause] University. Abby Erso, Liberty University. Emma Van Bramer, University of Notre Dame. Mattaline Vanhovven, Gapyear Internship. James Van Winkl, Missouri State University. Aaliyah Van Gelder, Biola University. Quinn Van Sickle, Pepperdine University. Mia Wall, Baylor University. Israel Waitman, Gapier, Canadian Junior Football. McKenzie Walker, University of Tampa. [Applause] Mason Walters, University of Pennsylvania. Ariana Ward, University of Wyoming. Univers Porter Warren, University of Pennsylvania. Alexander Waters, University of Hartford. Dylan Watson, Wheaten College. Thomas Webb, High Point University. Isabella Webster, University of Southern California. Jackson White, Auburn University. Bradley Williams, United States Military Academy at West Point. Riley Wilm, University of Arizona. Dawson Windsor, United States Air Force Enlisted. Lauren Wong, Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Madison Wong, Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Alexis Wood, Dallas Baptist University. Lily Wood, Indiana University, Bloomington. Morgan Wood, Baylor University. Nathan Ren, University of Colorado, Boulder. Darren Wright, Colorado School of Minds. Andrew Wyatt, Colorado School of Minds. Brady Wina, Wheaton College. Natalie Zikes, High Point University. [Applause] Isaac Yang, Wake Forest University. Avery Young, San Diego State University. Go ahead. It's appropriate to give them a big hand. That's good thing. So, as has already been mentioned, it takes uh many uh to make this possible. Thank you parents and families and friends. But it also takes an exceptional and outstanding faculty and staff. And I'm going to ask that they would stand and remain standing. Please, our faculty and staff, please. would like to invite any former uh faculty and staff to uh please stand and remain standing. Any former faculty and staff please stand. So, thank you to our boards and I would like the board members that are here uh to stand and remain standing and any former board members to stand and remain standing, please. We have a growing group of alumni and I'm going to ask that they would stand and remain standing please. So really fun to see all of you back home. Please stay standing. And then I'm going to ask the class of 2025 to please stand. And guess what we get to do together to show our prowess? We get to sing the alma mater. And we're going to get a lot of help today. uh Anukica Ronaldo and Audrey Entner and Ava Peters are going to come and help lead us in it. If you uh want to know the words and they're not printed up here, they're in your uh program. So, let's uh sing this with all our heart. Sometimes feels like an awkward moment, but that's all right. We'll do our very best. There's a spark, Rising high, piercing through mountain skies, standing firm for what's true, for what's right. [Music] Where our school spirit flies bearing bold blue and white and the heart of the evil dair. This is a place of hope, a refuge for seeking souls to soul, a place to grow. This is our This is our [Music] You of God. [Music] is our song. This is our This is our home. This is our This is our home. [Music] So much better this time. We're getting better. That's good. Why don't we all stand? You've been sitting a long time. And let me give a couple instructions before we have our benediction. Uh please stay in your area until the full recessional has moved out of the auditorium. Uh there'll be plenty of space in the atrium for uh times for meet and greet and pictures and light refreshments. And uh now we get to do a tradition that our students are very well familiar with and that is our benediction. We put our arms around each other. If you feel so comfortable, we invite you to do the same. It's a symbol of our unity and togetherness. And uh let me lead us in a benediction which is really a blessing. Our heavenly father, we are grateful for this class. We pray that you would be a a light and a lamp to their way and path. We pray that they may exude love and joy and peace and add to that patience, kindness and goodness, and to that faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The fruit of the spirit that they may own that and they may live it out. As has already been mentioned, Lord, that we need wisdom for the challenges that we live in these days. And your word is very clear that if we lack wisdom, we should ask. And so on behalf of all of us, we pray, Lord, that you would give all of us wisdom that comes from you and your word. And now, the Lord bless you, class of 25, Valor Christian High School family and friends. The Lord make his face to shine upon you and give you peace and rest spiritually, emotionally, physically, relationally, and in all ways. And we pray this all in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen. You may throw your hats. Yes. Before the recessional, let's have one instruction, please. one added instruction. So, thank you everybody. Um, it just became aware of of something. Uh, so we uh don't have we haven't had enough programs. So, those of you who have extra programs, if you would just um seek me or one of the board members out uh and if you don't have a program, if you could come to us, we have some extra programs that we have and if people give some to us that everybody can have a program to remember this moment. So, thank [Music] you. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Good [Music] morning. Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. 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