University High School Academy honors class of 2025 with inspiring speeches

Under the bright lights of University High School Academy's auditorium, a sense of anticipation filled the air as students prepared to celebrate a significant milestone—their graduation. The ceremony, held on July 2, 2025, marked not just the end of high school but the beginning of a new chapter for the Class of 2025.

Cedric, one of the student speakers, delivered a heartfelt address that resonated with his peers. He reflected on the journey they had taken together, from early mornings and late-night study sessions to navigating the complexities of adolescence. "Our graduation today marks the beginning of our freedom," he proclaimed, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy in a world that often overlooks young voices. Cedric shared personal experiences of facing microaggressions, highlighting the resilience he and his classmates had developed throughout their high school years.

He recounted a poignant story about a young girl named Lily, who nurtured her curiosity for environmental science by planting a garden. This tale served as a metaphor for the growth and patience required in life. "Learning curiosity and patience should be a lesson to us as we begin to experience real-world challenges," Cedric advised, encouraging his classmates to carry forward the lessons learned during their time at University High.

Following Cedric's inspiring words, Kristen Banks, the salutatorian, took the stage. With a bright future ahead, she shared her journey from Baltimore to Michigan and her plans to attend Case Western University, where she will major in cognitive science. Kristen expressed her gratitude to the staff and administration of Southfield Public Schools, acknowledging the support that had shaped her educational experience.

As the ceremony unfolded, it became clear that this graduation was not just a celebration of academic achievements but a tribute to the resilience, growth, and potential of each student. The Class of 2025 left the auditorium with a sense of purpose, ready to embrace the future and the opportunities that lay ahead. With the wisdom shared by their peers, they were reminded to grow boldly and to never underestimate the impact of the seeds they plant today.