CHS’s 1st valedictorian exhorts class to excel

WASILLA — Alexis Krell is at the head of her class at Colony High School, and on Monday forged a new path for future students. Yesterday’s graduation ceremony at the Multi-Use Sports Complex was the first time CHS has had the position of class valedictorian.

Krell, 18, said she had an idea she would be picked to represent the Class of 2008 as valedictorian, attributing her school success to finding the right balance between school work and life.

“I worked really hard at high school,” Krell said. “I was generally interested in the things I studied, plus I found a balance between studying and extracurricular activities. It was a juggling act — little sleep and lots of coffee. I love being busy.”

In her valedictory speech to more than 200 classmates and hundreds more doting family and friends in attendance, Krell encouraged her class to, no matter where they go, think on a global scale about how they can make a difference. She then challenged them to come back in 10 years with stories about how they’ve made their marks.

Passionate school staff members and jubilant graduating student officers encouraged their peers to pursue their goals, whatever they may be. For many, that path is clear and paved, while others Monday were just glad high school has ended.

“Only one-quarter of you that go off to college will finish,” said CHS staff speaker Jeff Bowker from the podium, speaking with the vigor of a televangelist. “It’s time for you to recognize your opportunities, show your thanks and choose your passion from here.”

Garrett Gilmore, senior class co-president, said his future became more clear with his involvement in student government at Colony.

“It was important for me to get involved as a leader to my class,” Gilmore said. “I like to think I was a leader of some sort, at least to these guys.”

Gilmore plans to attend Oklahoma State University in the fall to study business, hoping one day to make it back to the place that nourished his ambition to be great.

“The Valley’s a great place to live and work,” he said. “I hope I can get back one day to see where it takes me.”

For some Colony graduates, their next stop will be a short one, as many prepare to attend local universities or jump into Alaska’s workforce.

Seniors Joe Merrill, Megan Waychoff and Colten Lockhart said being close to home is as important to them as finding a good education. All will attend the University of Alaska Anchorage.

“I found basketball at this school,” Merrill said as he found his spot in the procession line leading into the graduation ceremony. “I’ll stick around and see what happens. Why not?”

Colony Principal Cyd Duffin said the Class of 2008 has promise.

“This class has made its mark at Colony High School,” Duffin said. “These are some unique individuals, one-of-a-kind characters who delivered like they said they would.”

Lindsey Haralson, 18, isn’t sure where her place in the world is, but she is determined to find it. Haralson, who’s grown up in Palmer, plans to attend Mat-Su College in the fall.

“I’m not mature [enough] yet to leave home,” Haralson said. “Colony’s a good school and I’m happy about my experiences here, but I’m ready to figure it all out on my own, to see what happens.”

Krell, who will pursue a pre-med and communications degree at the University of Washington in Seattle, Wash., said she will spend her summer in Washington, D.C., as an intern for U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski.

Contact J.J. Harrier at valleylife@frontiersman.com or 352-2269.