Members of the Minneota High School graduating class of 2023 assembled for commencement ceremonies Saturday afternoon. A total of 42 Minneota seniors graduated this weekend.

MINNEOTA — The class of 2023 had been through a lot, Minneota High School seniors said Saturday. But together they made it to the end of their time in high school.

“Congratulations to my fellow graduates. We did it!” said McKenna Moorse, salutatorian of the class of 2023. Moorse said graduation marked the end of one chapter in seniors’ lives, and the start of a new one. “Whichever path you choose, I believe that you’re destined for greatness.”

On Saturday, Minneota held commencement ceremonies for a total of 42 graduates. Seniors shared memories of their time together, and speakers at the program also gave advice for the future.

Senior class president Kate Hennen said graduation would be a time that they would always remember. Co-valedictorians Michael Pitzl, Autumn Dovre and Reagan Bierschenk also talked about the feelings and memories graduates shared.

“We feel a mix of emotions, from sadness to excitement. We have reached the culmination of our academic journey,” Pitzl said.

“Good or bad, the memories we’ve made and the time we’ve spend here have shaped who we are, and brought us to where we stand today,” Bierschenk said. “While it may be sad to know part of our lives are coming to a close, we hope that everyone gathered here today will join us in celebrating everything the class of 2023 has accomplished.”

Graduation speakers also made a point of recognizing the adults who supported and encouraged them, from parents to teachers.

“We couldn’t have done it without the support of teachers, counselors and administrators,” Moorse said. “They’ve not only taught us in the academic subjects, but they’ve also served as mentors, advisors and friends.”

“I want to especially thank the parents in the crowd today,” Dovre said. “You helped us sign up for activities and classes, came to our concerts and games, took time out of your days to help us whenever we needed it.”

In her keynote address, Minneota Principal Heather Anderson urged new graduates to “stay hungry,” and always have a goal to work toward. Anderson also said students should learn to be resilient and persistent.

“Embrace failure. Embrace the struggle, don’t be afraid of it,” she said. “Because whatever happens, if you fail, it doesn’t define you guys. It doesn’t limit you.”

“My last piece of advice is to make friends,” Anderson said. No matter who students meet out in the world, “You will grow and you will learn from each other, and that’s important.”

“I need you to remember that you are extraordinary people. You were raised in a school and in a community where hard work, high expectations, honor and respect for others is ingrained in you. You have the foundation to be successful. You have the skills to change the world,” Anderson told graduates. “We are honored to call you alumni, and remember: it’s a great day to be a Viking.”