The 42 Warren Collegiate Institute graduation ceremony graduates celebrated achievement, resilience, and success on June 24 in Warren. WCI’s Class of 2024 overcame challenges, excelled academically and left an unforgettable mark on their school community.
Principal Tyler Oliver welcomed families, friends and the community to the momentous occasion and acknowledged them for playing a pivotal role in shaping the path that led to high school graduation.
The Class of 2024 stands out for setting academic benchmarks, achieving athletic milestones, and zealously entering apprenticeship programs.
“You want to be successful, resilient, creative and adaptive and never forget happiness,” he said. “We believe in you and believe you are ready for your next journey.”
The journey continues after Grade 12 graduation. Interlake School Division (ISD) trustee John Hueging emphasized that learning is lifelong, extending far beyond the classroom walls. The unique high school experience of starting during COVID brought challenges, including no sports but remote learning, yet also cultivated resilience and adaptability among students.
“You will have memories that last a lifetime, memories that will be different from all others,” Hueging said.
“I encourage you and congratulate you on the time and effort you put into it”.
WCI’s Fallon Campbell proudly introduced each graduate as they crossed the stage to receive their diploma from Oliver and vice principal Jason Darragh. She highlighted the graduates’ accomplishments, scholarships, and awards received throughout their high school years.
Five students stood out for maintaining an average of 90 per cent or higher in six credits throughout the school year. ISD Assistant Superintendent Tyler Moran and WCI’s Lorna Broadfoot presented Livanna Daun (91.66%), Bryn-Lee Procter (95.4%), Sarah Gilmore (96.8%), Lily Campbell (97.8% )and Rianna Cassils (99.94%) with Medals of Excellence. These students consistently exemplified what it means to strive for academic excellence with unwavering dedication and perseverance.
Superintendent Margaret Ward awarded Procter the ISD General Proficiency Award. Procter is known for her well-rounded nature, academic prowess, and active participation in various school activities that reflect her outstanding character. With an exceptional 95.4% average in Grade 12, Procter is known for her reliability in getting tasks done while enthusiastically embracing challenges.
Procter’s commitment is unwavering, from intramurals to school government and sports to community service. She embodies respect towards herself, peers, and the school community through acts of kindness and citizenship. Procter personifies leadership qualities that inspire those around her.
Campbell announced Procter and Cassils as the joint recipients of the Female Athlete of the Year award.
“Their sports journey has been nothing short of inspiring,” she stated. They showcased unwavering determination, exceptional leadership, and impeccable skills. In every sport they competed in, their commitment to excellence shone through.
Procter’s intensity and Cassils’ calm demeanour proved a winning combination in doubles badminton, earning them a spot at provincials. Both excelled in volleyball, basketball and provincial track and field competitions. Cassils even broke a WCI standing record in the 100-meter dash.
WCI’s Matt Scrutton was pleased to name Carter Olson as the Varsity Male Athlete of the Year for the second year in a row. With the honour of being voted captain for both the hockey and volleyball teams, Olson’s leadership skills shine through, earning him the Winnipeg High School Hockey League’s prestigious Travis Price Spirit Award. His dedication to sports is evident as he excels in all disciplines and competed at numerous provincial championships.
In track and field, Olson pushed himself in the pentathlon, showcasing his versatility and skill across five events. His exceptional performance earned him an impressive 2,270 points, securing him second place on WCI’s track and field honour roll for over 40 years. Throughout his time at WCI, Olson embodied hard work, dedication, coachability, leadership, and teamwork.
Rianna Cassils, was brilliant at WCI and was honoured with the prestigious Governor General’s academic medal for her exceptional academic achievements. ISD’s Shannon Comte emphasised Cassils’ impressive average of 99.07% throughout grades 11 and 12 in the subjects of ELA, chemistry, biology, physics, and pre-calculus math truly showcased her dedication and intellect.
Her commitment to excellence is evident in every subject she undertakes, setting a high standard for academic success.
As valedictorians, Cassils and Procter stepped up to address their peers, filled with gratitude and reflection. Their high school journey began amidst the challenges of COVID, but as Grade 10 rolled around, they found joy in connecting with classmates and diving into the fun of high school life.
The Class of 2024 will be known for more than just their academic achievements; they embody a strong work ethic that will pave the way for success in their future endeavours. Through apprenticeships, part-time jobs, or post-school work commitments, these graduates have shown resilience and dedication.
Cassils and Procter shared valuable advice with their fellow graduates – embrace laughter during stressful times, view setbacks as opportunities for growth, and acknowledge the support received from teachers, families, and friends throughout their educational journey. As they bid farewell to high school life, the memories created together will forever hold a special place in their hearts.
In parting ways after years of hard work towards that coveted diploma on stage at graduation ceremonies – Cassisls and Procter felt Winnie the Pooh’s words resonated: “How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”
“Graduation is not the end. It’s the beginning,” Cassils said.
Vice Principal Darragh’s closing remarks reflected on the challenges faced by the Class of 2024, from adapting to remote learning to disrupted sports seasons, he acknowledged their ability to overcome adversity.
His message was clear: perseverance is key in facing future obstacles. Donning his Oilers jersey, he emphasized believing in oneself regardless of external opinions or past limitations. The notion that amazing things can happen when one works hard reverberated among the audience. Darragh’s encouragement to always believe in oneself was a powerful reminder that self-belief is essential for success.
Tribune Photos by Jo-Anne Procter
