John Marshall High School’s seniors walk to their seats during their graduation ceremony Thursday at Monarch Stadium. There are 256 students in the Class of 2023. (Photo by Shelley Hanson)

MOUNDSVILLE — A lifetime of hard work resulted in the conferring of diplomas for 256 seniors during John Marshall High School’s 55th annual commencement on Thursday at Monarch Stadium.

The Class of 2023 was reminded by speakers during the event that more hard work was to come, but that they could all handle it.

“It’s a beautiful day to go after dreams,” said JMHS Principal Cassandra Porter.

Porter noted that the seniors managed to secure a grand total of $1.7 million in scholarship money “to further their dreams.”

She commended the students for getting through the school year together along with help from their parents and teachers. She encouraged them to “make good friends and take care of each other” after graduation.

“You will figure life out, I promise. … Some of you needed tough love, but we all did it. … I believe in all of you,” Porter said.

The special guest speaker for the evening was Alex Shook, a JM Class of 1987 graduate who now lives in Key West, Florida.

Shook encouraged the students to continue working hard after graduation and to recognize and take opportunities when presented to them.

He noted while technology and society may change continuously, what remains truly important does not – lessons learned from one’s parents and teachers. He encouraged the graduates to also “err on the side of forgiveness and kindness” throughout their lives.

“It can be tough out there. … I’ve learned more from my failures than from my successes,” Shook said, adding they should also try to keep a positive attitude.

“I can’t wait to see all the amazing accomplishments you make,” he said.

The ceremony also included some awards. Seniors Victoria Kidney and Cameron Anderson both received the $250 Jostens award. Also, Brennan Sobutka was named Mr. Monarch and Sierra Taylor was named Miss Monarch.

Commencement addresses were also conducted by the class’ Top 1 percent — Sienna Miller, Kidney and Sydney Hess.

Miller thanked her parents for their support and wished her fellow students joy and love in their lives.

Kidney talked about her struggles with a heart condition, which has since been resolved, and what she learned from having to deal with it.

“Never take a single second of life for granted,” she said.

Hess reminded the crowd that graduation is not the end and something to be sad about, but a celebration of their years together. She also thanked her parents for their love and guidance.

“You have pushed me to strive for greatness,” Hess said.

The stadium’s seating was filled with the graduates’ loved ones and friends who cheered them on during the procession.