Photos: 387 graduate from Westside High School, 'potential to do extraordinary things'

Ken Ruinard, Anderson Independent Mail

Westside High School, Anderson's Class of 2024, graduated 387 students on Tuesday, May 21, with the theme "Be Your Own Hero" before thousands of family and friends in Littlejohn Coliseum in Clemson.

The ceremony, which included speeches by Valedictorian Grayson Whitten and Salutatorian Cadence Cribb, challenged the audience and graduates to be the best versions of themselves.

Dickie Smith, Community Engagement Liaison for Anderson School District Five, presented 1992 Westside High graduate Andy Patrick with the Distinguished Alumni Award, honored for his Anderson community efforts since he was a Ram.

"Treat others with respect and always strive to do what is right. As you leave Westside High School and take on new adventures, remember that the hero we see is our reputation. You have the potential to do extraordinary things. Make a difference and stay true to your values," said Principal Kory Roberts. "Congratulations, and go on and be your own hero."

Whitten said, "What truly defines heroism? True heroism lies not in seeking glory or recognition. Heroism is not just the characters we see in books or see in movies. They are ordinary individuals who find the strength to persist and succeed despite the obstacles."

Graduates toss caps during the Westside High School commencement with 387 graduates at Littlejohn Coliseum in Clemson, S.C. Tuesday, May 21, 2024.
Graduates toss caps during the Westside High School commencement with 387 graduates at Littlejohn Coliseum in Clemson, S.C. Tuesday, May 21, 2024.
Valedictorian Grayson Whitten during the Westside High School commencement with 387 graduates at Littlejohn Coliseum in Clemson, S.C. Tuesday, May 21, 2024.
Valedictorian Grayson Whitten during the Westside High School commencement with 387 graduates at Littlejohn Coliseum in Clemson, S.C. Tuesday, May 21, 2024.
Dickie Smith, Anderson School District Five Community Engagement Liaison, introduces Distinguished Alumni Award winner Andy Patrick Class of '92 during the Westside High School commencement with 387 graduates at Littlejohn Coliseum in Clemson, S.C. Tuesday, May 21, 2024.
Dickie Smith, Anderson School District Five Community Engagement Liaison, introduces Distinguished Alumni Award winner Andy Patrick Class of '92 during the Westside High School commencement with 387 graduates at Littlejohn Coliseum in Clemson, S.C. Tuesday, May 21, 2024.
Dorian Mattress walks with Julia Barnes over the stage during the Westside High School commencement with 387 graduates at Littlejohn Coliseum in Clemson, S.C. Tuesday, May 21, 2024.
Dorian Mattress walks with Julia Barnes over the stage during the Westside High School commencement with 387 graduates at Littlejohn Coliseum in Clemson, S.C. Tuesday, May 21, 2024.
Salutatorian Cadence Cribb gets ready to speak during the Westside High School commencement with 387 graduates at Littlejohn Coliseum in Clemson, S.C. Tuesday, May 21, 2024.
Salutatorian Cadence Cribb gets ready to speak during the Westside High School commencement with 387 graduates at Littlejohn Coliseum in Clemson, S.C. Tuesday, May 21, 2024.

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Westside High School holds graduation ceremonies, see the photos

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