Catoctin High School Celebrates Class of 2026
By Alisha Yocum
Catoctin High School (CHS) welcomed the Class of 2026, along with their families and friends, to Knott Arena at Mount St. Mary’s University for the school’s 57th Commencement Ceremony on June 2.
The ceremony began with all the traditional pomp and circumstance. Seniors Delaney Hench and Jack Fordham performed the National Anthem on the clarinet.
Following the recognition of elected officials and special guests, Frederick County Board of Education member Chad King Wilson Sr. delivered an uplifting message to graduates, reminding them that success is not defined by where a person starts, but by where they finish. Frederick County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Dyson followed with words of encouragement, quoting Henry David Thoreau: “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you’ve imagined.”
The celebration continued with a moving American Sign Language performance of “For Good” from the musical Wicked by seniors Claire Daly, Syprus Fisher, Scarlett Haller, and Gianna Kinnamont.
Class speakers Lillian Grable and Alexis Wagner delivered a joint address reflecting on their high school experiences and encouraging their classmates to remain true to themselves as they move forward into the next chapter of their lives. They also paid tribute to former CHS Special Education Teacher and coach of Unified Sports, Kelle Brumley, who passed away, remembering her authenticity and the positive impact she had on those around her. They encouraged students to honor her by being true to themselves as they go through life.
One of the evening’s most cherished traditions was the presentation of the Cougar Paw Award. Each year, graduating seniors select a staff member who best embodies the spirit of Catoctin High School. This year’s recipient was art teacher Laura Day. Students recognized Day for her meaningful interactions, kindness, creativity, and belief in lifelong learning.
Principal Jennifer Clements then addressed the graduates, reflecting on a phrase that she thought represented the class of 2026. “Preserving Tradition while Fostering Innovation.” She praised the students for carrying forward Catoctin’s deep tradition of serving and supporting others.
At the same time, Clements noted the innovative thinking and problem-solving abilities she witnessed throughout the class’s high school years as well. Clements went on to challenge the students to apply both tradition and innovation to life. “As you look to your future, whatever that may hold, I encourage you to think about it through the lens of both tradition and innovation.”
As the ceremony concluded, graduates moved their tassels from right to left and tossed their caps into the air, marking the end of their high school journey. Smiles filled the arena as members of the Class of 2026 celebrated their accomplishments and prepared to embark on their next adventures.
Graduate Sadie Burke and Mr. Cree. Mr. Cree was Sadie’s teacher in high school and a favorite to many. But for Sadie he was more than a teacher, he cared about her and helped in many ways.
Congratulations to Graduate Reine.
Graduates Gianna, Brynn, and Savannah. “Very proud of these ladies!”
–Kristi Wood
Catoctin High Graduate Brody Mathias came to Emmitsburg Elementary Pre-K Promotion for his little buddy, Eli Myers, so they could celebrate their graduations together.
Graduate Brett Balderson.
Graduates Kyle Welsh and Chase Jackson.
Graduate Joey Thornton.
Graduates Hayden Hahn and Cheyenne Fogle.
Jake Wagerman graduates from Catoctin High School surrounded by family.
“We are all so proud.”
Dakotah Gambrels graduation from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs.
Landon Tyeryar with his supportive family who helped him along the way to complete his late grandma’s one wish: to make sure he walked across that stage. She was there in spirit and smiling from heaven.
Madalynn Viers and Brennen Conrad.
