The much-anticipated moment has finally arrived for Collège Stonewall Collegiate’s Class of 2025.
On Tuesday, June 24, a crowd gathered at Veterans Memorial Sports Complex to celebrate the school’s 114th graduating class, made up of 124 students ready to tackle the world.
After the school band performed the procession and O Canada, principal Jason Cassils acknowledged the grads for their accomplishments.
“We gather not just to recognize academic achievement but to honour the journey that brought you here — the challenges you’ve overcome, the friendships you’ve built and the growth you’ve experienced along the way,” he said.
“To our graduates: this is a milestone. You’ve shown resilience, creativity and courage. You’ve adapted, persevered and grown in ways that will serve you for a lifetime. We are so proud of the people you’ve become.”
At the same time, he acknowledged the school staff who remained committed to shaping these young minds throughout their education journey.
“As you step into the next chapter — whether it’s university, college, the workforce or a path uniquely your own — remember this: the future isn’t something that just happens. It’s something you create. With every decision, every challenge and every act of kindness, you are shaping the world around you,” Cassils said.
“So dream boldly. Lead with integrity. And never forget — you have everything it takes to make a difference.”
On behalf of the Interlake School Division, trustee Alan Campbell brought greetings and a congratulatory message.
“As graduates of Collège Stonewall Collegiate, you leave here to work, to continue your learning, to travel, to have a family, to do all of these things or perhaps something else entirely, assured in the knowledge that you too have done your part because you’ve worked hard to get here,” he said. “And you deserve every bit of the gratification and pride that you feel.”
Attendees at the event enjoyed a performance by the school’s talented choir before the grads took the spotlight, crossing the stage to collect their diploma and, in some cases, various scholarships, bursaries and other awards. In total, 17 graduates received an excellence medal for achieving an academic average of 90 per cent or higher in their Grade 12 year.
Then charismatic valedictorians Keenan Abraham, Ashlyn Delaine and Quinn Dewar reflected on their time together while also sharing hopes and apprehensions for the future. After that, everyone enjoyed a poignant sign-off video of the graduating class, created by Elia Grosselle, Mikayla Breton and Daisy Uhres-Todd.
In another highlight, Elia Grosselle received this year’s Governor-General’s medal, which goes to the student with the highest academic average of all Grade 11 and 12 courses. Elia achieved a remarkable overall combined average of 97.75 per cent, and she plans to continue her studies in the faculty of science at the Université de Saint-Boniface.
The $1,000 Interlake School Division’s general proficiency award aims to acknowledge a student who stands out in a variety of areas, including academics, character, leadership and community spirit. This year’s award went to Shannon Bodnarus, who was described as “a joy to teach, always ready to lend a helping hand, a friend to everyone and a true role model.” Shannon plans to enter the faculty of science at Providence University College.
In parting, Cassils shared observations and encouragement with the grads.
“As you move forward — whether to university, college, apprenticeships, work, travel or new adventures — know this: you are ready. You have the tools, the strength and the courage to take on whatever comes next. Keep learning, keep growing and keep being true to who you are,” Cassils said.
“Thank you for everything you’ve brought to our school. We’ll miss you, but we’re excited to see what you do next. Go out there and shine — and remember you’ll always be part of our school family.”
The graduation celebrations continued on Thursday, June 26 with a banquet at the Victoria Inn in Winnipeg.
