News Summary
Greenwood High School held its graduation ceremony at Finis Horne Arena, celebrating the achievements of the 370 graduates who marked the culmination of their 13-year educational journey. Valedictorian Elizabeth Polatty delivered an inspiring speech emphasizing the importance of community and relationships, while Principal Kathryn Benjamin encouraged graduates to embrace future challenges. The event highlighted not only academic accomplishments but also the friendships and personal growth experienced during high school. Graduates left feeling prepared to face the world and excited for new opportunities ahead.
Greenwood, South Carolina – On May 30, 2025, Greenwood High School held its graduation ceremony at Finis Horne Arena, marking a significant milestone for the 370 graduates who received their diplomas. The occasion celebrated a culmination of 13 years of education and personal growth for the Class of 2025.
Elizabeth Polatty, the valedictorian, took center stage to deliver an inspiring speech that encapsulated the emotions of the day, reflecting on joy, nostalgia, and a hint of sadness. In her address, she encouraged her classmates to “be the light in a world that often feels dim.” Through her speech, Polatty cited Hurricane Helene as a poignant example of community strength and support during challenging times, illustrating the power of genuine care in effecting positive change in others’ lives. She urged her peers to cherish their time spent together, emphasizing that people will remember how they were made to feel rather than mere achievements.
Senior class president Gabriele Talley acknowledged the shared experiences and growth of the class throughout their high school years. She highlighted the importance of the memories created together, reinforcing the bonds formed during their academic journey. Additionally, graduate Keyasia Tolbert expressed gratitude towards the band teachers and coaches, recognizing their significant role in shaping her identity and contribution to her personal development.
Principal Kathryn Benjamin addressed the graduates as they prepared to embark on their next adventures. She encouraged them to embrace future challenges with enthusiasm and determination while emphasizing the importance of relying on the solid foundation they built during their time at Greenwood High School.
The weather on graduation day featured partly cloudy skies, with a daytime high nearing 90°F and a low of 71°F, accompanied by light winds from the west-southwest at 5 to 10 mph. The pleasant weather added to the celebratory atmosphere, allowing graduates and their families to commemorate this momentous occasion.
Following the ceremony, graduates expressed a sense of readiness to face the world, walking “a little taller” as they transitioned into the next chapters of their lives. The event not only underscored academic accomplishments but also served as a reminder of the friendships formed and challenges overcome throughout their high school careers.
Graduation day marked more than just the end of mandatory schooling; it heralded the beginning of new opportunities for the Class of 2025. As they prepared to navigate their future paths, the lessons learned and relationships forged during their time at Greenwood High School will undoubtedly serve as a guiding light in their endeavors.
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Additional Resources
- Index Journal: Greenwood Eagles Take Flight
- APN News: Greenwood High Class of 2025 Graduation
- WNKY: Upcoming Graduation Dates
- Arkansas Online: Graduation Week Schedule
- WBKO: High School Graduation Dates
- Wikipedia: Graduation
Author: HERE Greenwood
The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
