Ann Richards School celebrates graduation of Class of 2025 with heartfelt speeches

The graduation ceremony for the Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders took place on May 30, 2025, celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2025. The event highlighted the journey of the graduates, reflecting on their experiences and the challenges they faced throughout their education.

During the ceremony, student speaker Gia Latawa expressed gratitude to teachers, family, and classmates, emphasizing the emotional mix of excitement, anxiety, and pride felt by the graduates. She recalled the transformative journey that began with their fifth-grade applications, noting the courage it took to leave behind elementary school friends and embrace new experiences at ARS. Gia highlighted significant moments, including the impact of the pandemic, which disrupted their education for a year and a half, and the resilience the class demonstrated in overcoming these challenges.

The speech also celebrated the unique traditions and milestones the students experienced, such as homecoming, senior prom, and various projects that shaped their high school years. Gia underscored the values of hard work, perseverance, and community that defined the Class of 2025, encouraging her peers to embrace the changes ahead as they transition to college and beyond.

Following Gia's address, the ceremony recognized her achievements with a salutatorian plaque, acknowledging her academic excellence. The valedictorian, Emma Thornton, was introduced next, who will be attending the University of Texas in Austin to study biology. Emma is expected to continue the legacy of leadership and excellence that the Ann Richards School promotes.

The graduation ceremony not only marked the end of an important chapter for the Class of 2025 but also celebrated their readiness to face the future with courage and determination. As they prepare to embark on new journeys, the support of their classmates and the school community remains a vital source of encouragement.