It was a celebration to remember for Fisher Branch Collegiate graduates who marked their milestone moment last weekend.
On Saturday, June 21, a total of 20 graduates celebrated the culmination of their secondary school experience.
As master of ceremonies, vice-principal Donna Gislason welcomed everyone to the momentous occasion, which took place in the school gym.
Principal Amanda Garton shared some special memories with the grads, who made a lasting impression — regardless of whether their learning was online during COVID times or in person at school.
“This group has left a mark on our school. They’ve brought energy, leadership, creativity and a sense of community that’s hard to describe,” she said.
“Whether leading activities, participating in class, putting on a questionable skit for the seniors’ Christmas tea or just hanging out in the hallways, they brought joy and connection to those around them.”
She said they’ve been role models for younger students as well as staff, and they will be missed.
From her vantage point as the school’s principal, Garton shared some sage words with the Class of 2025.
“Keep being exactly who you are. Keep asking questions. Keep speaking your mind. Keep laughing. Keep showing up for each other. The world needs more people like you — people who are thoughtful, kind, humble and quietly remarkable,” she said.
“You’ve already proven that you’re capable of great things, not just in what you do but in who you are. We are proud of you. We believe in you. And wherever you go next, don’t forget that you’ve already made a difference.”
On behalf of the Fisher Branch Collegiate staff, Tim Beyette also shared a celebratory message with the grads. For Beyette, his first year teaching was the same year this group started Grade 9, so they shared the experience of starting at the school together.
“We were stepping into uncharted waters side by side — navigating new schedules, new systems and, in some cases, figuring out where everything was,” he said. “I didn’t just get to watch you grow; I got to grow with you.”
He told the students that it’s been an honour to witness their growth over the years, and he stressed that they’re ready for the next step, wherever that might take them.
“You’ve got the tools. You’ve got the curiosity. You’ve got the playlists. Go out there and build something you’re proud of, even if it takes a few detours and a couple of wrong turns,” he said.
“Live boldly. Embrace the opportunities ahead. Be fearless in pursuing your dreams, and never let fear hold you back. Congratulations, Class of 2025. We’ll miss you. We’ll cheer for you. And we can’t wait to see what you do next.”
Their former French teacher Leanne Kochan also shared some insights with the graduating class through a frog-related theme.
“Graduation is more than just a ceremony — it’s a transformation. It marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of an entirely new adventure. While stepping into the unknown can feel a bit like a frog staring at a vast pond for the first time, remember this: you are not starting from scratch,” she said.
“You are launching forward with everything you have learned. You carry the lessons of the classroom, the friendships that supported you like lily pads on tough days, the slips and splashes that taught you resilience, and the leaps that gave you confidence. You carry creativity, empathy, courage — and, most importantly, your unique voice.”
Patrick Davy, deputy fire chief of the Fisher Fire Department, offered words of congratulations and best wishes for the future. He also presented awards to Horatio Chudy and Rori Lindal for volunteering with the local fire department.
Next up were presentations of diplomas and awards. Brandt Cochrane received the Lakeshore School Division proficiency award and the Indigenous Leader of Tomorrow award from the University of Manitoba, where he plans to study engineering. He also earned the Governor-General’s award with an astounding average of 99.1 per cent.
In addition, Brandt delivered the valedictory address to his classmates and encouraged them to give a round of applause for all the teachers, coaches and parents who supported them along the way.
“It’s strange to think that something we’ve been looking forward to for so long is suddenly here. We’ve spent years building memories, friendships and figuring out who we want to be. And now we’re stepping into whatever comes next,” he said.
“It won’t all be easy, and it won’t all go the way we plan. … But if there’s one thing we’ve learned throughout our first chapter of life, it’s how to keep moving, how to figure things out even when they’re messy and how to lean on each other when we need to.”
The festivities continued with a graduation dinner that evening at the Fisher Branch Community Centre hall, complete with toasts, class histories and a memorable slide show.
