The Ohio Hi-Point Class of 2019 celebrated Wednesday evening during the Bellefontaine Main Campus' 2019 Convocation Ceremony, which recognizes students who attend the Bellefontaine Main Campus from one of OHP's 14 partner school districts and complete a career-technical program.
Ohio Hi-Point's Students of the Month led the processional followed by the posting of the colors by the American Legion Post 173 of Bellefontaine.
Brianna Workman, an Automotive Technology senior from Bellefontaine High School, led the Pledge of Allegiance and the introductions of guests.
Superintendent Dr. Rick Smith spoke to the graduates about taking on the workforce crisis. "Our country needs this talented group of students," said Smith. He stressed the importance of enrolling, enlisting, or gaining employment to help make the country thrive. "Put what you've learned and continue putting it into practice. Enroll in continuing education, enlist in the military to protect our country's interests, or gain employment and show the world what you can do. Be the generation that makes your dreams come true." finished Smith.
Madison Payne, a Construction senior from Bellefontaine High School, Trevor VanHoose, a Multimedia Marketing senior from Indian Lake High School, and Gabrielle Fisher, a Culinary Arts senior from Graham High School were the student speakers for the evening.
Payne encouraged the class to continue working hard in their next step of life. VanHoose told the class to trust in their dreams, and Fisher challenged the class to be the builder of their destiny.
During the awards portion of the program, Evan Botkin was recognized as Ohio Hi-Point's Best of Class. Botkin graduated with a 4.1 and will continue his education at The Ohio State University majoring in Computer Technology.
Cassandra Duran, an Allied Health and Nursing senior from Marysville High School, and RJ Grider, a Graphic Design and Printing Technology senior from Mechanicsburg High School, were honored as the Top Senior Students of the Year.
Lou Vito, president of WPKO/WBLL in Bellefontaine, announced the names of the 223 seniors as they received certificates of completion from the career technical instructors.
High School Director, Tonya Ramey, shared successes of the OHP Class of 2019. Over 100 students participated in the School-to-Work program, logging over 7,000 work hours and collectively earning an estimated $52,000. In addition, students earned 204 College Credit Plus credits in academic courses.
Ramey closed the ceremony by saying, "Thank you for sharing your final two years of high school at Ohio Hi-Point. I hope you know how proud this faculty, staff, and I am of you!"