On May 18, Evanston Township High School launched more than 940 graduates at commencement at Northwestern University’s Welsh-Ryan Arena at McGaw Memorial Hall in Evanston.
Keith A. Robinson, associate principal for educational services at ETHS, coordinates graduation.
For the Wildkits seniors of the Class of 2025, he said, “This class is truly special. They’re the first to complete all four years of high school after the COVID-19 pandemic, really the last of what many have called the ‘COVID generation.’
“Their journey has been anything but typical, and they’ve shown nothing but resilience, heart, and growth.
“I’ve had the privilege of knowing so many of them throughout their high school careers, and their stories continue to inspire me,” Robinson said.
When Max William Dahan of Skokie walked into the arena, he spotted enthusiastic waves from family, including great aunt Deborah Bono and Max’s mother Rachel Dahan.
About Max, Rachel Dahan said, “He’s worked really, really hard so we’re so proud of him.”
The program included traditional commencement moments. Some students decorated the tops of their caps or mortarboards.
Commencement included keynote speaker Anders Holm from the ETHS Class of 1999. Holm is a movie actor, producer and writer.
Holm used humor while giving the Class of 2025 practical advice, such as encouraging them to learn how to cook in order to be healthy and self-reliant, instead of ordering costly restaurant food from online quick delivery services.
“Let’s talk about you,” Holm said to the graduating seniors. “You are 100% unique. Do not confuse being unique with being special.
“You gotta earn special,” Holm said. “But you are you and no one else is.
“That’s your value-add in the world, you just need to figure out where you can add the most being who you are.”
Jeanine Bahanuzi, who plans on becoming a lawyer, offered senior class remarks.
“I want to contribute to change,” Bahanuzi said.
“We often let our weaknesses and emotions become an excuse to give up instead of an excuse to take on a challenge and we fail to realize that some of our greatest strengths are developed through the training and resilience of our weaknesses.
“But, Class of 2025,” Bahanuzi said, “I don’t see that for us. I see perseverance, I see determination, I see grit, and most of all, I see greatness,” Bahanuzi added.
“I hope you not only remember ETHS for the community you created, but the community it created for you.”
