Story and photos by HaLeigh Abbott

Unionville High School’s Class of 2023 was one that won’t soon be forgotten as the 100th graduating class for the school district. 

The commencement, held on June 8 at the Bob Carpenter Center at the University of Delaware, heard many of the commencement speakers talk about the differences between the first graduating class of 1923 and the present. Edwin Hubble had not yet proved the universe was bigger than our own solar system, and the graduates would not have even seen a Hollywood movie, yet the class of 2023 can enjoy “Guardians of the Galaxy 3,” noted Natalie Carter, the guest speaker and Unionville High School teacher of the year. 

The commencement began with a processional to “Pomp and Circumstance” by the school band, followed by a beautiful presentation of the “Star Spangled Banner”, a performance of the school’s alma mater, and a benediction by the school choir. 

High School principal Dr. Amy Jenkins and Superintendent Dr. John Sanville welcomed the graduates and their families, and applauded the hard work and dedication required to reach this day.

Student Honor Speakers included Madeleine Day, Ria Saxena, and Eric Steuber. Day described the many accomplishments of the graduation class, including 11,250 hours of completed community service and $277,000 raised to fight pediatric cancer. Saxena elegantly related high school to a series of doors that open and close, and encouraged all graduates to look back through the windows to remember it. Steuber offered advice as a hero’s tale, motivating his classmates to face their fears and choose their paths wisely.

Sanville said, “The class of 2023 has unlimited options, and I know you will seize every opportunity you get.”

During her welcome message, Dr. Amy Jenkins, said, “100 years from now, this class will be remembered for their perseverance. This class helped us return to normal (after the COVID-19 pandemic) with school and extracurricular activities.” 

Jenkins closed her remarks by requesting that graduates continue to “laugh, love, and make memories along the journey.”