Page 36 - 1986

F a r e 1" ©

Class of '86

turns their tassels

At 2 p.m. Sunday, May 18, 1986, 236 Darren Swett, presented a speech entit­
young adults made their first major steps led “A Senior’s Thoughts at Commen­
toward their futures by accepting a cement” and salutatorian, Cathy
diploma. This was the class of 1986, the Kleveter, gave a “Welcome” speech.
smallest class in the last 10 years. Being valedictorian means being
Hundreds of spectators including ranked first in the class. This year there
parents, students and former Ralston was quite a competitive run for the title.
graduates, were moved by the Ralston High Counselor Gene Seran
ceremony. One of the most moving parts said, “There was really a close competi­
of the ceremony was when the Ralston tion for valedictorian this year. The top
High Varsity Choir sang Whitney three students, Swett, Kleveter and
Houston’s famed song “Greatest Love of Steve Vahl, only had a few hundredths
All” and a song called “Friends” which of a point between them.”
was sung when the traditional tassel This year a total of $541,538 in
turning took place. scholarships was awarded to the
Another highlight was the customary graduates. ROTC scholarships valued at
presentation by the valedictorian and $48,000 were given to Chuck Rogers,
salutatorian. This year’s valedictorian, Mike Jaeger and Paul Gibbins.

During graduation, the Varsity Choir opens up and
sings meaningful songs like the theme “The Greatest
Love of All”.

A very warm welcome is given by Salutatorian
Cathy Kleveter to begin the graduation ceremony.

28 Graduation