hroughout our years together, we learned lessons far beyond the classroom. We discovered that consistency often matters more than talent, that mistakes can be powerful teachers, and that real growth begins the moment we step out of our comfort zone. The laughter in the hallways, the nervous silence before tests, the shared sighs of exhaustion these moments formed the rhythm of our journey. Like sparks glowing in the darkness, these small memories lit the path that brought us here. But none of this would have been possible without the people who held us up. Our teachers challenged us to think, to question, and to grow. Our friends made the hard days bearable and the good days unforgettable. And then there are our families, the quiet, constant force behind our success. As a Latino student, I carry with deep gratitude the sacrifices of my parents, who came to this country with courage, hope, and determination. Their long hours, their strength, and the simple but powerful words “échale ganas” shaped the person I am today. Their dreams became the soil where my own dreams could grow. As we move into the next chapter, I offer this challenge to all of us: keep moving forward. Not fast, not perfectly just forward. Bring with you the resilience you’ve built, the identity you carry, and the dreams that brought you here. The future ahead of us is wide and uncertain, but we are ready. We have learned to rise after falling, to stand strong in storms, and to believe in possibilities even when they seem far away. As Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” So believe in yours. Honor where you come from. And step boldly into the world you are meant to shape. Congratulations, Class of 2026 this is only the beginning.