Graduation Speech 2019 - Victoria Ly

Good evening everyone! My name is Victoria Ly, better known as Vicky, or as some like to call me, Victor, and I’ve had the honor these past two years of being Russell’s ASB president.

I would like to start off by thanking everyone for giving me the opportunity to lead this school. I’m surprised I was able to brainwash this many students into voting for me not one, but two years. I’ve truly enjoyed being a part of this incredible community, and I’m never going to forget it.

Russell truly is an amazing place. It’s more than just a school, it’s a second home.

These past two years have flown by so quickly. It feels like just yesterday we were clueless seventh graders just trying to find our classrooms. I never thought that I would make as many memories at Russell as I did in my elementary school, but I proved myself wrong.

This year hasn’t been perfect. We’ve all had our downs, whether it was an argument with a friend or stressing over schoolwork. However, with those downs came some ups, like all the unforgettable memories that we’ve made. Think back to all the wonderful events that have happened this year. We’ve made lasting new friendships, had fun at rallies and dances, and watched history teachers drink almost all of their diet coke.

If Russell has shown me anything, it’s that we’re all surrounded by supportive people who genuinely care about us, who are there through the rough times. From the superb teachers and staff, to the terrific students who form Russell.
    
The teachers and staff at Russell are unparalleled. They are extremely caring, kind, considerate - always making sure to do what’s best for the students. They put in the time and effort each and every day to make sure we understand concepts, all while pushing us to do our best. These past two years, we have all gotten to know so many inspiring teachers.  A special thank you to Ms. Rangel, Ms. Fiore, Ms. Hothi, and Ms. Alcala who’ve had to tolerate me and my weirdness all year, especially my very probable theories. There are not enough words in the world to express how grateful I am to have these extraordinary teachers. Not to mention the other countless teachers who have made such an impact on each and every one of us. Without these teachers, this place wouldn’t be what it is now. They define Russell and make it what it is: a remarkable school.

    A school wouldn’t be a school without students either. The students at Russell are kind-hearted and encouraging. We’re all one big family who always looks out for one another. Not only that, but this extends to the community as well. This year we have had various student led fundraisers from Jack Emery and donating to the food pantry, to spreading awareness for mental health, and raising money for animal welfare.  Hopefully the incoming eighth graders will live up to our magnificence.

    Like I said before, Russell is like a second home, and leaving it isn’t easy. We’re going to be high schoolers next year - it’s unbelievable - and although  leaving Russell may be bittersweet, I want to remind everyone that there’s still a whole world ahead of us, and this is just the next step. It’s like we’re the main characters in our very own story, One chapter is closing, but a new one is awaiting us. We’re moving on, but we’ve made bonds and connections that will last a lifetime. I mean we’ve survived middle school, we can survive high school too. [pause] So, even though we may be leaving Russell, once a wolverine, always a wolverine. Thank you!

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