“You were the one who finished.” - Valedictorian reminds grads to thank themselves too

An accomplished class of 293 graduates celebrated their achievements, reminisced on the past 12 years and looked toward their futures as they celebrated the 2025 Fernley High School Commencement Ceremony last Friday night. 

Valedictorian Carly Abrahamson told the graduates that while they remember how they got to this point, that they will get through the next chapters of life the same way. While she urged the graduates to remember and thank the people who helped them along the way, she also reminded them to thank themselves. 

“When it felt impossible, you were the one who finished,” Abrahamson said. “You were the one who made it to the deadline despite everything else you had going on, and you are the one who earned this diploma.” 

This year’s graduating class includes 86 members who received advanced diplomas, 35 who earned college and career ready diplomas and 90 potential recipients of the Millennium Scholarship. There were also five members of the National Honor Society, four Cum Laude graduates, four Magna Cum Laude graduates and 14 Summa Cum Laude graduates.  

Abrahamson remembered the seniors being in kindergarten 12 years ago, thinking about how cool the seniors were during Spirit Week and how long they had to wait to become seniors themselves. She told the graduates that being without the people who have surrounded them will be terrifying and they will have to develop all new relationships and will be uncertain of most choices. 

“But as the fear and uncertainties start to grow, remember, you were the one who got through all 12 years,” she said. “Remember the mistakes and accomplishments you made and how you made it to the finish line, despite everything.” 

Salutatorian Keagen McKinney told the graduates to see the beauty in their dreams and not mourn what’s ending but celebrate what’s beginning. 

“Your dreams matter, chase them, even if the path they lead you on is challenging or uncertain,” McKinney said. “Let your dreams not stop at dreams, but become your reality. The future is yours to shape, whether you’re heading to college, starting work, joining the military or still figuring things out. Let your dreams guide you forward.” 

Abrahamson urged her fellow grads to remember how fast time goes and take a minute to soak it all in. 

“Have belief and grace for yourself,” she said. “It will all be okay and you will get through it and end in the place you deserve. I’m so excited for everyone here and cannot wait to see all we can do.”