(Lander, WY) – The June 1 Lander Valley High School 2025 graduation ceremony was the final high school graduation in Fremont County, wrapping up yet another year of celebrating the graduates in our community.
And celebrating the graduating Tigers is exactly what the Lander community did, with every seat full and a large number of attendees either making seats in the stairwells or finding the best place to stand.
The ceremony began with the LVHS band performing the processional, the Valley Singers singing the “Star Spangled Banner,” 307 Alliance performing the “Honor Song,” and an address from the first student speaker, Finn Richards (apologies we missed your speech, Finn!).
Richard Atnip was this year’s guest speaker, who reminded the students that it’s okay to fail, and that life is unavoidably hard.
“You have to learn to handle hard better,” Atnip told the graduates. “When you hear anybody who has a successful life say ‘It gets easier,’ I personally would say that life never gets easier. What happens is you learn to handle hard better. What I’m trying to say is that to be successful in the next journey of your life… learn how to handle the hard things.”
Lara Robertson then took the stage as the second student speaker. After sharing memories of almost-fistfights-turned-friendships, funny comments from her peers, and lamenting the loss of beloved band and choir teachers, Robertson had this to say to her fellow graduates.
“Through all of the movement, we never lost each other. We became all-state athletes, award-winning artists, amazing actors, and studious academics side by side. We have helped win many state championships for the number one high school in the state of Wyoming.”
“…And now we have to learn to do life apart,” Robertson continued. “After today, we will go our separate ways. We might see each other in town or go to school with each other in the fall, but it won’t be the same. The days of coloring in Mr. Franklin’s class and Wordle with Mr. Roberts before school are over. This day marks the first in a series of divergent decisions that will lead each of us to our unique lives. …You are unique, smart, talented individuals, and doing life with you for the last 13 years has been a joyful experience.”
After Robertson’s speech, the Valley Singers performed “The Road Home” by Stephen Paulus, and Principal Brad Neuendorf then shared some of the many Class of 2025 accomplishments.
Neuendorf acknowledged the parents for their tireless efforts and student support, and noted the accomplishments of LVHS educators, such as WDE Teacher of the Year Morgan Hahn.
h/t Vince Tropea, County 10
Neuendorf then took a moment to acknowledge the students who plan on going into the military after graduation.
“These graduates are joining the 155 known LVHS and Fremont County Vocational High School alumni who have served our nation and who will be honored on our brand new LVHS wall of honor,” Neuendorf added.
Three of the four students recognized for their soon-to-be military service. h/t Vince Tropea, County 10
After listing off even more Class of 2025 accomplishments, it was time for students to receive their diplomas.
h/t Vince Tropea, County 10
Once the graduates received their diplomas, it was officially time to turn their tassels and celebrate. Congratulations, Tigers!
h/t Vince Tropea, County 10
Class Flower
Hibiscus
Class Song
“Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield
Class Motto
“When all else fails, there is always delusion.” – Conan O’ Brien