One of the, if not the, largest class in Liberty High School history crossed the stage Friday, June 27, during the 128th annual commencement exercises.

The musical talents of the senior class were on display during the ceremony with several seniors singing the national anthem, and Luis Molina Gonzalez playing the alma mater.

With a theme of resilience, perseverance and shaping the future, 141 graduates officially became members of the Liberty alumni following graduation ceremonies held in the Liberty High School gymnasium.

“My good friend once told me that ‘It doesn’t have to be good, it just has to get done,’ and my gosh we have done it, and we deserve to celebrate that,” Class President and Salutatorian Sophia Ferguson said in her welcome.

Now that it is done, it is time to look forward, several speakers said. But the path will lead the class in several different directions.

“As we walk up this stage, we welcome a new chapter in our lives. Each of us stands on a threshold of endless possibilities,” Valedictorian Kaitlyn Bodolosky said. “Each of us has unique talents and dreams that will shape our paths ahead.”

And each individual’s path will probably not be a straight one.

“Most of us don’t know what we want to be when we graduate high school,” Liberty Board of Education Vice President Pamela Teed Fisk said. “Don’t be afraid to change direction.”

But when you choose your path, “choose it boldly,” High School Principal Dr. Derek Adams said.

“Own your direction. Take initiative in your life,” he said. “And when things get hard—and they will—remember that responsibility isn’t a burden; it’s your launchpad.”

It’s a launchpad that started at Liberty.

“Take what you’ve learned here, not just the facts and formulas, but the friendships, the lessons, the challenges, and let it guide you as you step forward,” Superintendent Dr. Patrick Sullivan said. “You are capable. You are needed. And you are just getting started.”