The class insisted that DHS return its commencement ceremonies to SUNY Fredonia’s King Concert Hall after several years at the high school’s football field. Saturday’s weather would have disrupted an outdoor ceremony. However, 120 seniors graduated under the concert hall’s enormous roof, without any raindrops splashing them.

Graduates still got to ring Dunkirk High’s famous bell near the football field, before getting bused over to King Concert Hall. “Pomp and Circumstance” was played on the hall’s giant organ as graduates and district staff marched in, an immediate reminder of the change of venue.

Superintendent Michael Mansfield gave a welcome that was translated into Spanish, as was most of the ceremony.

Salutatorian Marencia Bohn began her speech thanking her family. She said high school taught her classmates how to overcome both outside perceptions and inner thoughts. Bohn also referenced challenges in learning caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Dunkirk High School Class of 2024 throws caps in the air after graduating Saturday, in this photo from the Dunkirk school district Facebook page.

“However, we all have one thing in common: We made it here today,” she said.

Bohn closed by emphasizing “the importance of choosing kindness and standing against injustice in the world.”

Meghan Lancaster, the valedictorian, spoke of numerous memories throughout her high school career. “We have all come out together and even stronger than we were before,” she said

Lancaster went on to thank the school district, her dance studio and her family, especially her parents.

“Dunkirk has taught us to be accepting and kind to everyone, embrace challenges, embrace change, and of course, live the Dunkirk way – to be respectful, responsible and undeniable,” she said.

Days before graduation, Dunkirk High School took part in the annual “Senior Sweep.” This tradition involves the seniors going around the city collecting any trash or litter left. This year the seniors collected over 15 bags of trash from different areas including Washington Park and Wright Park. Afterwards, the class enjoyed pizza with some of the city officials and a photo with Mayor Kate Wdowiasz.

Special thanks to the city of Dunkirk Department of Public Works employees for the help, as well as G&E Tents.