Congratulations to the Class of '24!

Words from High School graduate, Iris McKee

~A note from Anthony

Oh man, what a beautiful way to spend our last sands of this year’s hourglass on a glorious sunny day in the backyard sharing our gratitudes for this whole community and especially our amazing youth who were graduating!

Kindnesses were shared, tears dotted many of our cheeks and all of us stood in full support and love for all of our departing friends and community. These beautiful children on their big day showed up beaming and proud and were surrounded by family, alumni and the entire community who stood happily with them. It was a glorious day to fully understand why we’re all here.

Days like these are vital for so many reasons, and probably at the top of that list is for all of us to indulge in the true thankfulness we all have for the individuals who make up this place and the honoring of each of their journey that got them to today. It’s a big deal to pass through the gates of life with a smile, some pride and a bigger sense of the possible. On days like these, we join in belief of each of our gang and remind them of the heroes they already are, the heroes they are becoming and the fact that all the days ahead will always be fortified by the time they spent at Brightworks surrounded by so many who love them.

Its bittersweet for sure, but if it wasn’t what would it truly be worth? This place will always be the sum of its people and, looking out from that stage, my eyes and heart were full with the sight of so many wonderful beings.

It was a giant privilege for me to conclude my days here chasing hugs, whispering and shouting feelings to everyone who walked by and to note how truly loved we all are. It’s a great honor for all of us to be here and on days like graduation, its so blindingly clear that this place is a beautiful home and for those of us leaving it always and forever will be.

Graduates: I/We love you so much!!!