Waldorf, MD – Lackey High School was the final school to graduate in Charles County for 2015. Charger Pride was clearly evident in the commencement ceremony held at North Point High School in Waldorf Saturday, May 30,

Raven Edge, class president, kept her remarks short and sweet.

“To the class of 2015, first I want to say congratulations,” Edge stated. “There is no obstacle we cannot overcome. I’m proud of us all.”

“Class of 2015, we made it,” said Salutatorian Jessica Nichols. “We have been going to school together for most of our lives. We should reflect on the past, but focus on the future. We should take pride in our accomplishment on the field, on stage and in the classroom.

“Do not stop on your path to success,” she added. “Even if you are on the right track, you will get run over if you just sit there. Work hard, keep moving and be humble. To the class of 2015, good luck, make history, and don’t forget to keep moving forward.”

Valedictorian Melissa Nelson told her fellow graduates, “As we move on in life, we will always carry the memories of these four years with us.”

Perhaps the most stirring words came from a former graduate who is already making his mark in Charles County, Brandon Paulin, a 2014 graduate who earlier this year was elected mayor for the Town of Indian Head.

“Last year, I was sitting right where you are, not even realizing we were done—no more listening to a bell or getting on a bus at 6:45 in the morning,” Paulin said. “Sometimes you miss it, sometimes looking back we can’t forget that some lessons seemed pointless in high school, but a year later you can look back and relate to it. Anything you put your mind to, you can accomplish. The possibilities for all of you are endless.”

“Understand that success is not achieved unless there is hard work involved,” Principal James Short told his seniors. “You can have what you desire in life if you first believe in your heart you can achieve it.

“Always believe in yourself,” he said. “Never doubt your ability to achieve any goal. When you are given the opportunity to do something good, do something great.”

Contact Joseph Norris at joe.norris@thebaynet.com