BUCKHANNON — Buckhannon-Upshur High School celebrated graduates of the class of 2017 on Friday evening with a special guest who offered students words of encouragement.
U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito told students that in West Virginia, people are all part of “one big, small town.”
“In West Virginia, we’re just one big, small town,” Capito said. “We care for one another, we’re interested in each other’s families, we know each other’s names and you’re always running into somebody that you know no matter where you are.”
The senator added that she believes that these things bring beauty to the state.
Capito encouraged graduates of Buckhannon-Upshur High School to be present, enjoy all of the moments in life and to cherish relationships.
“It’s important to take the time to enjoy your surroundings — to listen and to be present,” Capito said. “I’m sure you can look around within the blue and white gowns and see very good friends that you’ve made through the years, and now you’ll have to work hard to maintain those relationships."
Upshur County Superintendent Roy Wager took a moment to recognize students in the class of 2017 that have plans to further their education, enter into the workforce or who have plans serve their country.
In addition, Wager congratulated the graduates on their class’s high graduation rate as well as the nearly $3 million total scholarships and grants earned by the students.