Bellevue grads urged to 'define success'

BELLEVUE — Bellevue High School's Class of 2023, like other graduating students, has endured unprecedented challenges within recent years due to COVID-19. But during his address, class president Matthew Higgins instead focused on what his peers have accomplished during the pandemic. "From our wind ensemble getting straight ones at state, to our various sports teams claiming 16 conference titles over four years, to our FFA chapter taking their time and energy and educating the next generation about agricultural living, our time here has been on that's perfectly embodied the goals proudly displayed around the halls of our school: Practice, perseverance and excellence," Higgins said during Saturday evening's graduation ceremony at Bellevue Athletic Facility. He reiterated the importance of kindness and implored that, after stepping into the real world, they embody it every day. "Ours is a generation of change, just like every generation before us," Higgins said. "The change we experience will be used to define us, whether it be social media or COVID or something else entirely. I encourage us instead to be the generation that finds lasting change in kindness and finds lasting kindness in change." Bellevue Schools superintendent Troy Roth noted the Class of 2023 is already prepared to take on hardships and setbacks. "This class, above any others, knows what it means to face challenges and come out stronger on the other side," Roth said. "Because when it comes down to it, your four years of high school were not what we consider to be normal. We watched you shift and adapt and find new ways of achieving and celebrating your goals, and thankfully you were able to experience a full traditional year your senior year." Senior music students performed the chosen class song, "Always Remember Us This Way" by Lady Gaga from the movie "A Star is Born." Later on, First National Bank president Dean Miller presented Higgins and Hope Alda with Top Scholar awards for the top grade point averages. Before graduates sang the alma mater and flipped their tassels, principal Nate Artino told the class to chase after what they seek to accomplish. "True success lies in pursuing one's passions, embracing challenges and making a positive impact on the world," he said. "It's about finding fulfillment, happiness and leaving a legacy that inspires others. "I have no doubt that you'll go on to achieve greatness," Artino continued. "Above all, define success on your own terms, guided by your values and the impact you wish to make." Bellevue High School Class of 2023 • 130 graduates &emsp;&emsp;— 70% continuing their education in college/trade school &emsp;&emsp;— 27% entering into the workforce &emsp;&emsp;— 3% enlisting in the military &emsp;&emsp;— $142,650 in local scholarships accepted • The top 10 academic students: Matthew Higgins, Hope Alda, Rose Mira, Lucas Norman, Leia Kudro, Courtney Fox, Allison Michaels, Noah Englund, Kameron Ooten, Slater Kanuch _ Reach reporter Caitlin Nearhood at nearhood@sanduskyregister.com and follow her on Twitter @CaitlinNearhood