The Class of 2021 exemplifies perseverance. They were all on their STEM journey as sophomores making plans for their last two years of high school and charting their plans for post-secondary. Their world went from predictable to unimaginable. Yet they persevered. They did not give up. They faced each day and found the courage to continue their focus on a very bright future.
Far too many adults have poor opinions of teens. Those of us fortunate to work at STEM have the highest hopes for the future and for our bright young Spartans. We know this generation, and the Class of 2021 in particular, will change our world in ways we cannot imagine. They are empowered, resilient and future-focused. Nothing will stop them. They have seen it all and have the resolve to knock through any obstacle.
Hardship binds us in ways that are felt but cannot be quantified. The Class of 2021 has experienced far more than its share of hardship. Teens have their own code and language. The Class of 2021 drew closer and leaned on each other to cross the finish line as a unified class that will forever be bonded together.
Graduation on Thursday was picture-perfect. It was a perfect Colorado day and the mood was celebratory. Families were enthusiastic participants in the speeches and events of the afternoon. The theme across all of the speeches was perseverance. After a challenging two years, the speeches remained optimistic and positive- just like our graduates. The final speech was from Sean Mauch, a graduating senior, encouraging his classmates and all in attendance to practice kindness. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.
Congratulations to the Class of 2021. You are the best of the best. STEM is so grateful to be part of your journey.
To the Class of 2021,
P.J. Eucker PhD
Executive Director
