Unlike every other senior class that has walked the halls of Gorham High School (GHS), the Class of 2020 graduates celebrated very differently. In order to follow social distancing recommendations, there were six different ceremonies held between June 6 and June 7 at GHS’ McCormick Performing Arts Center. Each ceremony had 34-38 students, along with valedictorian, Madisen Sweatt, salutatorian, Peyton Morton, class president, Westley Brinegar, and administration.

Students were able to walk across the stage, receive their diploma, and take a picture with their parents. The ceremonies were also live streamed on the GHS website so family and friends could watch their loved ones graduate.

Despite not being able to graduate traditionally at Merrill Auditorium, students and parents overall felt it was a huge success. Everyone involved did a great job coming together to do something special for the Class of 2020.

“I think the ceremonies went really well. I loved how small and intimate they were. It was really special to see all the graduates with their parents,” said Morton. If nothing else, she would like her class to remember from her speech: “Your words become your reality, so think and speak positively. If you want something in life, speak it into existence. You can’t talk negatively and expect to live a positive life.”

“Senior year is filled with lasts because it is the end of our 18-year journey. We are in this auditorium for the last time, saying our goodbyes to our teachers and staff, being together as a class for the last time. But we are graduating, and although an unexpected ending, here we are at the end of this amazing journey,” said Sweatt during her valedictorian speech.

Sweatt was also pleased with the day. “Even though it was an unconventional graduation and end of our senior year, the school and community really pulled together for us. It made me very proud to be a Ram,” she said.

Brinegar said he was very thankful to all the faculty and administration who made graduation possible.

“The world will always be a crazy place,” said Brinegar during his speech. “Now, being adults, there are many issues our generation needs to help solve. From a global pandemic, to racism, to climate change. We are the ones who will be at the forefront. But, if changing the world seems daunting, there is always something else you can do. Be kind. Be kind to every single person that you interact with. Now, more than ever, we need to be kind, patient, and understanding with each other.”