The annual Palisade High School graduation ceremony is a celebration of many years of dedication to education, not only at a high school level. This year’s graduating Bulldogs and their packs filled the stands at Stoker Stadium on May 11th at 6p.m. The night to remember was filled with performances, student speeches and distinguished guests. Palisade Principal Mr. Bollinger opened the ceremony, recognizing the Class of 2026 for their hard work leading up to their special day, while eager students took their seats, ready to receive their diplomas.
Some Bulldogs have the opportunity to deliver speeches at graduation, which is an intimidating, yet great honor. SBA Vice President Hank DeFord, SBA President Ian Shiao and selected student speakers Mallory Brownell and Gaby Suazo addressed their graduating class with pride and warmth. The ceremony’s guest speaker, CHSAA Chief Executive Officer Michael Krueger, encouraged the graduating seniors to be themselves and be kind to others. Students who chose to enlist in the armed forces were recognized by athletic director Mr. Hawkings along with other staff members at Palisade who have previously served our country.
This year’s graduation ceremony honored student-athletes, STUCO members, International Baccalaureate
diploma recipients, pathways graduates, as well as performing arts students, a true celebration of the diversity and talent at Palisade High School. Students were recognized individually as they walked across the stage to receive their diplomas. The ceremony closed with the senior class song, “Where’d All the Time Go” by Dr. Dog, which sparked many emotions from graduates and their families. Parents, friends, teachers, family members, and graduates gathered on Suplizio Field after the ceremony to take photos and exchange “congrats”.
Jennifer Cervantes, a member of the STUCO and graduated senior, shares her feelings after seeing all of STUCO’s work that was put into the graduation ceremony, expressing, “It feels more so like an accomplishment, just because you see all your ideas and all your work being put into an event that’s not only for you, but is for your class as well.”
The Palisade Paw Post would like to recognize our graduated seniors, Co Editors-In-Chief Mallory Brownell and Gaby Suazo as well as our Sports Editor Emily Hardin. Thank you for all of your dedication throughout the years, and our organization would not be the same without your efforts!
On behalf of the Paw Post, we congratulate all graduating seniors from the Class of 2026 and wish you well on your future endeavors!
