Sierra Lutheran Class of 2024’s stories still being written

Sierra Lutheran High School held its 20th graduation ceremony Saturday celebrating 27 seniors who would embark on various college or career paths locally or nationally after finishing as Falcons.

Sam Steyn, co-valedictorian this year, reflected on her classmates’ peaks and valleys going through high school and the inevitability of encountering more as they enter their chosen paths into college, trade school, the military or other options. She encouraged them to rely on their faith to overcome difficulties.

“…Take a step back and look at the trajectory of your life,” Steyn said in her address. “I urge you that when you’re standing on a peak, like the one you’re on today, keep looking up. Keep climbing. Look for the next peak and try to stay on course with the one you’re on. Alternatively, when you’re at a low point, resist the urge to look down and instead focus your eyes upwards toward hope, toward the next peak and when you see it, start climbing.”

Joseph Seddon, co-valedictorian, said he plans to study chemistry at Stanford University, then pursue his MBPhd in clinical and patient services. He said his time at Sierra Lutheran with his class through the pandemic was special, recalling favorite moments such as the group’s senior trip and senior chapel.

“I think our class bonded this year,” he said. “…I think it’s cool to see it come full-circle. We came in with masks and social distancing, and to see how close we are, I’m just so proud of this class. It’s been a pleasure to be here for four years and to have the opportunities we’ve had academically. I’m so thankful.”

Speaking to his classmates, he imparted positive words to maintain a positive attitude in all things and said fond goodbyes as they parted ways.

“I found myself saying ‘just figure it out, just figure it out,’” he said. “But no matter what we faced, we did with a spirit of faith that could not be broken.”

Seddon and Steyn both were named as National Merit Scholarship Program semifinalists this year, and Seddon was a Nevada Youth legislator in District 17 for Churchill, Douglas, Lyon and Storey counties.

Remi Cummings, who will be attending the University of Texas to study biochemistry, said she hopes to become a veterinarian. She previously attended Minden’s Grace Christian Academy before Sierra Lutheran.

“It’s been really fun, actually,” she said. “A lot of people don’t really like the smaller environment, but I think it’s kind of a blessing when you get to know each and every one of your classmates personally.”

Interim principal Kitty Murphy, who also addressed the graduates, implored students to trust in God’s plan and leave into the world and the future with confidence and to think of one special book, their own life story, still being produced.

“…Jesus is writing Himself about your life,” Murphy said. “…There’s no greater author, no better writer to pen the manuscript of your life. …So, Class of 2024, you’ve been given the tools and advice your whole life. Take all the tools you’ve been given and run with it. No more handholding.”