Portage High presents diplomas to Class of 2025; superintendent urges graduates to ‘prioritize’ relationships

Portage High School held its Class of 2025 commencement at a ceremony where Dr. Amanda Alaniz, superintendent of Portage Township Schools, urged graduates to value relationships and choices over rankings as they leave high school.

The ceremony included musical performances, the presentation of colors by the Marine Corps JROTC, recognition of seniors who have enlisted in the armed forces, student speeches and the formal certification that students had met graduation requirements set by the State of Indiana and Portage High School.

"The most meaningful numbers in life aren't about where you've placed or how you've ranked," Dr. Amanda Alaniz said in her address. "They're about what you prioritize, who you show up for, and the moments you never forget." Alaniz thanked district staff and introduced the board and administrative team before the speeches.

Senior class president Davian Boyd delivered a commencement address in which he urged classmates to seize opportunities and support one another. "You are great. You are smart. You are beautiful, and you will succeed," Boyd told the graduates. Boyd also led the class in a short vow to pursue greatness in daily choices.

Alina Hennings, introduced as a member of summa cum laude and the class number one, gave remarks about perseverance and gratitude to educators from Portage Township Schools and earlier feeder schools. The program also included a solo choir performance led by choir director Jordan Dollins.

Event organizers recognized several seniors who have enlisted in the armed forces; those students were asked to stand so the audience could acknowledge their service. The ceremony noted that some senior athletes from the boys and girls track and field teams were scheduled to compete in state-level finals the following days; the announcement said the boys would be leaving in the morning to compete and the girls would compete on Saturday.

A district presenter stated, "The students before you have successfully completed all requirements needed for graduation by the State of Indiana and Portage High School," and said diplomas would be presented by Dr. Alaniz, Dr. Michael Stevens, associate superintendent, and the Board of School Trustees. Principal Pat Mills read the graduates' names.

The audience was asked to remain seated until the recessional ended and to meet graduates outside at door Q after the ceremony.

Details such as the total number of graduates, the exact ceremony date and the number of seniors who enlisted were not specified in the program remarks.