"Navigating high school was not always easy. The challenges we faced were some of the most important moments," he said. "Daring to explore the unknown made high school special, and we all emerged with new experiences. We learned what it takes to succeed." 

Adam Frye, dean for the Class of 2023, remarked on the creativity, resilience and kindness of this group of graduates. Having navigated Covid challenges as freshmen and sophomores, they emerged as strong and caring individuals who became true leaders on campus and mentored younger students in a variety of ways through service, tutoring and coaching. 

As part of the ceremony, seniors Mallory Barnes, Brier Gregory and Zoe Woods sang "Thank You for the Music," by ABBA. The lyrics in part read, "Thank you for the music, the songs I'm singing; Thanks for all the joy they're bringing; Who can live without it? I ask in all honesty; What would life be?" 

After departing the quad at the end of the ceremony, seniors flocked to the Stephens Family Courtyard to revive the tradition of ringing the alumni bell, which may be rung only by graduates on the day they become official HIES Alumni. The ringing of the old Georgia Railway bell echoed throughout campus in celebration. The graduates also enjoyed photo opportunities in the brand-new Golden Bear Plaza with the 10-foot bronze bear statue, newly installed on May 9. 

Our 135 seniors were admitted to 151 colleges and will attend 51 different colleges and universities. They will attend research institutions, liberal arts colleges, single-gender institutions, Ivy League institutions, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and more across 21 different states. 

Congratulations to our Class of 2023!