“Despite not having the same interests, talents or struggles, our class will strive to work hard together to get what we want,” said senior class president Johnny Fales.

A total of 43 Minneota seniors graduated during commencement ceremonies Saturday. Commencement speakers reflected on what graduates had accomplished together.

“In athletics and arts, we have added to the lasting legacy of this school,” said class salutatorian Kellen Bradley. “However, as great as success feels, high school has been about more than just a trophy case, transcript or personal best. It has been a training ground for life.”

“Today is a pretty important day, a day when we are celebrating a family member or a friend who is making it on to the next chapter in life,” Fales said.

Photo by Deb Gau As they filed out of the gymnasium after graduation, members of the class of 2026 were ready to move on to the next chapters in their lives.

Graduates would be heading out to achieve new goals, whether it be continuing their education, joining the military or entering the workforce, Bradley said. “The path won’t be easy. But we’re ready,” he said.

In her remarks to the class, co-valedictorian Madison Hennen talked about the class mural that 2026 graduates painted in the hallway at Minneota High School.

“If you take a look at the design for the mural in the hallway, the words ‘We fit as one’ are right on the puzzle,” Hennen said. It represented how class members were unique individuals, who also fit together as part of a bigger picture. “Each one of us has a unique set of qualities that we bring to the class,” she said.

“We all come from different backgrounds. Each one of us has had our own set of challenges or obstacles throughout high school, and now our future plans will take each of us in different directions. Yet somehow we all fit together into one Minneota graduating class,” Hennen said.

Faculty speaker Bryce Jeppesen called on graduates to keep working toward their goals.

Photo by Deb Gau Minneota seniors were surrounded by family and friends as they processed into commencement ceremonies Saturday.

“What you accomplish in the future is up to you,” Jeppesen said. He said education was not just about what took place in the classroom. “It’s about developing lifelong skills, that you can use to keep learning throughout your lives.”

Jeppesen hoped that the class of 2026 would continue to think and perform to the best of their abilities in life.

“Never settle, and never ‘just do’ something. Hold yourself to a high standard,” he said. “You will surprise yourself with what you can accomplish.”

Co-valedictorian Garrett Peterson offered encouragement for classmates as they headed out into the world.

“Fully believe in yourself, and trust that you can do it,” Peterson said. He also urged graduates never to forget their connections to each other. “Remember where you came from. Remember this school, these people, and most importantly, remember it is a great day to be a Viking,” he said.