RUTH FRY/The Luminary Hughesville graduates celebrate by tossing their caps in the air following the "turning of the tassel".

HUGHESVILLE – A rite of passage became symbolic for the graduating class at Hughesville High School on Friday night, June 3rd when 119 students received their diplomas during the commencement ceremony held outdoors.

Starting at 7 p.m. the Hughesville High School Band led a procession with “Pomp and Circumstance” followed by the National Anthem and a message from Superintendent, Michael Pawlik who challenged the students to dream big and always work hard. He quoted Steve Jobs, founder of Apple computers and iTunes and how he never gave up on his idea, even though it was at first under ridicule from his colleagues.

Matthew Leonard, the Valedictorian, spoke of “running a race together and jumping hurdles” since kindergarten. “We need to continue to work hard,” he added. “Look back and be proud,” he hailed.

“We have spent over 1600 hours together in the classroom,” said Salutatorian Marilee Getgen as she addressed her fellow classmates on the amazing things that made them worthwhile. “We have learned how to think, how to test and how to question.”

A yearbook dedication was given to Kayla Stackhouse and many of the student body graduating this year received high honors.

RUTH FRY/The Luminary The Hughesville High School Class of 2016 dedicated their yearbook to Mr. Stephen Buggy, art teacher. The yearbook was presented to Buggy by Yearbook Editor Kayla Stackhouse.

Diplomas were awarded by school board president, Richard Michael assisted by Michele Beck, class advisor.

RUTH FRY/The Luminary On Friday, June 3, at approximately 7 p.m., the 123rd Annual Commencement at Hughesville High School began with the senior class of 2016 entering the stadium led by senior class advisor, Michele Beck, and class valedictorian, Matthew Leonard.

The Hughesville High School graduating class of 2016.