A total of 30 students, their teachers, and families made their way into the high school’s gymnasium on Sunday to celebrate their achievements and receive their diploma.

In his Superintendent’s address Carl Seiter welcomed the graduates and their parents to the ceremony and praised staff for the work they did to abide by the state’s COVID-19 restrictions.

The students also heard from the Rev. Jason Mandley who delivered the baccalaureate and guest speaker and teacher William Dever, who told them they were his favorite graduating class. Dever also encouraged the graduates to dream –whether it’s day dreams or big dreams.

“This world needs dreamers more than ever,” he said. “You know the world we live in, I don’t want to talk about it, we need dreamers out there.”

News Photo by Crystal Nelson Hillman Community Schools Salutatorian Emma Hardies addresses the Class of 2021 on Sunday in the high school gymnasium, telling them to be proud of their hometown because it helped make them who they are.

Salutatorian Emma Hardies referenced a quote, telling her fellow graduates to be proud of their hometown, as it’s part of what makes them who they are.

“I know most of us couldn’t wait to graduate but for years we have spent more time in school, with our second family than in our own homes,” she said. “We have created friendships that will last a lifetime. This town and this community has made us who we are and no matter where we go, or what we do, we will always have this place to call home.”

Hardies also gave a shout out to one graduate who was in the hospital, but watching the graduation virtually.

Valedictorian Jaden Dove talked about the class’ ability to stick together and that he will not forget the memories they made together. He also left his classmates with a little advice — to make sure they’re willing to help someone because you never know who they might turn out to be someday.

The graduating class was also treated to a memories slideshow and graduate Emma Libby leading the parent tribute. Kayla Nichols, junior and senior high school principal, presented the class to the school’s board of education and English teacher Dever led the class roll call.

News Photo by Crystal Nelson Thirty students graduated from Hillman Community Schools on Sunday in the high school gymnasium.

News Photo by Crystal Nelson Hillman Community Schools Valedictorian Jaden Dove addresses the Class of 2021 on Sunday in the high school gymnasium.

News Photo by Crystal Nelson William Dever, an English teacher with Hillman Community Schools, addressed his “favorite class” on Sunday in the high school gymnasium. He told graduates to dream, whether it’s day dreams or big dreams, the world needs more dreamers.