Warriors of Growth: Principal Rachelle Bronson Opens Ceremony with Raw Emotion


By Sean Openshaw

The Summit High School parking lot fell silent as Principal Rachelle Bronson took the podium, her voice already thick with emotion.

"It is an honor and a pleasure to be here today and to speak for these amazing students. I'm already choking up," she began, setting the tone for what would become an afternoon of tears, triumph, and transformation.

After student Elliot Gonzalez delivered a stirring electric guitar rendition of the national anthem, Bronson returned to address the crowd, fighting back tears as she recognized distinguished guests from the Flagstaff Unified School District, including Superintendent Mike Penca and board members who had supported Summit's unique mission.

But her words to the graduates revealed the heart of Summit High School's purpose. "To our incredible graduates, you made the courageous choice to walk through the doors of Summit High School and to take ownership of your educational journey," Bronson declared. "Each of you carries a story that deserves to be heard. You've overcome obstacles, pushed through self-doubt, and chosen to rise again and again and again."

The principal's voice cracked as she continued.

"I've watched you show up on hard days and hopeful ones, with grit, heart, and a fire that refuses to be extinguished. I am so grateful you let me see you determined, passionate, and deeply connected to your culture, your families, and your dreams. You are more than graduates. You are warriors of growth."

Bronson didn't forget those who supported the students' journeys. She acknowledged families and friends.

"Your belief in these students, even when you couldn't get belief in themselves, has been vital." To the staff, she expressed gratitude for their "tireless efforts, your patience, and your unwavering commitment to nurturing students, minds and hearts."

In a touching moment, she gave special recognition to the FUSD maintenance team, particularly Andrew Myers, saying, "Your behind the scenes dedication that keeps our school safe, welcoming, and functional. You are part of this family, and we are so grateful for you."

Graduate in purple cap and gown stands at podium during outdoor commencement ceremony with audience in background.

Graduate Elliot Gonzalez delivers a powerful electric guitar rendition of the national anthem to open Summit High School's 2025 graduation ceremony, setting an unconventional tone for an afternoon that would celebrate resilience and authentic self-expression.

A graduate in academic regalia addresses an audience from a podium during a commencement ceremony in black and white.

Graduate Daija Miller overcomes her admitted nervousness to deliver an inspiring message to the Class of 2025, urging classmates to "embrace the opportunities that come your way" and reminding them that "the future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." Photo by Flagstaff photographer, Sean Openshaw.

The Beginning of Everything: Daija Miller's Call to Action


Standing nervously at the podium, graduate Daijanea Miller admitted her anxiety before delivering a message of hope and determination to her fellow classmates.

"I am nervous," she began honestly, before launching into her address.

"Today marks a major milestone in your lives, and I am honored to share this moment with you guys," Miller said. "As you step into the world, remember that you are capable of achieving greatness. You have worked hard to get to this point, and your dedication and perseverance have paid off."

But Miller emphasized that graduation was not an ending.

"But the journey doesn't end here. It's only just the beginning," she urged. "You may face challenges and obstacles along the way, but don't let them discourage you. Every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow."

Her words grew more passionate as she continued. "Believe in yourself and your abilities. You have the power to make a positive impact on the world, to make a difference in the lives of others, and to leave a lasting legacy."

Miller concluded with a powerful call to action.

"So go out there and make your mark on the world. Embrace the opportunities that come your way. Take risks and never give up. Remember, the future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams."

A graduate in a purple cap and gown delivers a speech at a podium during an outdoor commencement ceremony.

Standing proudly as both graduate and mother, Aliyah Harrison thanks everyone from lunch ladies to grandparents who helped her reach this moment. Her daughter Azul, she reveals, has been her "biggest motivation to get through high school, to go to college, and to become a nurse." Photo by Flagstaff photographer, Sean Openshaw.

A Mother's Triumph: Aliyah Harrison's Journey of Gratitude


Aliyah Harrison took the stage not just as a graduate, but as a young mother who had defied the odds.

"My name is Aliyah Harrison and I have the honor to stand on the stage to give my last speech as a high school student," she began, before launching into heartfelt acknowledgments of everyone who had helped her reach this moment.

"I want to start off by thanking everyone who helped me get here today, including the TAP teachers, early Head Start, and one of my mentors, Sandra," Harrison said. Her gratitude extended to every corner of the school.

"I would also like to shout out all the high school teachers who helped us get here to this remarkable day, and to Andrew, who kept our school clean, and to the lunch ladies who kept our bellies full. To the office staff who tried their hardest to keep cell phones away and students on track."

The emotional peak came when Harrison spoke of her personal motivations.

"I want to give a special thanks to my own grandparents who have supported me through my high school experience here at Summit High School. Without them, it wouldn't have been possible," she said. Then, with pride radiating from her voice: "I stand here not only as a graduate, but as a proud mom to my daughter Azul. She has been my biggest motivation to get through high school, to go to college, and to become a nurse."

Addressing her classmates directly, Harrison acknowledged their shared struggle.

"To my fellow graduates, we did it. And for some of us, we accomplished something we might not have imagined we could, but here we are tonight."

She reflected on their journey.

"It took us roughly 800 remarkable days to get here, although some of those days were quite stressful. We made it to this one moment that we will share in our memories forever."

Harrison's closing words offered both celebration and comfort.

"We are living proof that it's not only possible but it's never too late to conquer the dreams we had as children... Summit will always be a supportive place that we can come back to to ask for help and to share big life moments."

Graduate in royal blue cap and gown gives speech at outdoor ceremony podium while audience watches attentively.

In a moment of remarkable courage, graduate Elliot Gonzalez shares his battle with anxiety and depression, crediting specific teachers who "listened when I felt like no one else could hear me." His powerful testimony reframes the diploma as a symbol of "perseverance and resilience." Photo by Flagstaff photographer, Sean Openshaw.

Breaking the Silence: Elliot Gonzalez's Powerful Mental Health Testimony


Perhaps no speech captured the unique challenges and triumphs of Summit High School students more powerfully than Elliot Gonzalez's raw, honest address about his battle with mental health.

"As I'm standing here today, it's kind of unreal. It's like a dream, one that I didn't always think would come true," Gonzalez began. "High school hasn't just been about textbook tests and grades for me. It's been a journey full of challenges, moments of doubt, and struggles that went unseen by many."

With remarkable courage, Gonzalez shared his darkest moments.

"There were days when anxiety and depression were my constant companions, when the thought of getting out of bed or facing another school day felt impossible. I slept through most of my classes, and I fell far behind, and I didn't think I would ever get out of it."

But his story was ultimately one of hope and gratitude.

"I am standing here before you today because while my struggles were real, so was the support I received," he explained. Gonzalez specifically thanked the teachers and staff who had been his lifeline.

"To Mr. Severian, Casey, Ms. Smith, Ms. Stahl, Ms. Bronson, and Mr. Harpst, I cannot thank you enough, truly. Each of you have played a crucial role in my journey. You guys listened when I felt like no one else could hear me, and you pushed me to keep moving forward when I thought I couldn't."

His message to the educators was profound.

You taught me something far more important. You taught me to keep going... You showed me that my mental health was just as important as my grades, and that it was okay to ask for help."

Gonzalez reframed the meaning of their diplomas.

"This diploma that I'm about to receive is far more than just a piece of paper. It symbolizes the strength to keep going, perseverance, and just toughing it out even when things feel impossible. It symbolizes the resilience we've all built, not just in academics, but in life as well."

His closing words to his classmates were both realistic and inspiring.

"We've learned that success isn't measured by how quickly we reach the finish line, but by how we overcome the obstacles that try to hold us back. And as we step into the next chapter, let's remember that the road ahead will not always be easy. There will be more struggles, more setbacks, and more challenges. There always will be. But as long as we hold hope and continue to persevere, we can make it."

Someone speaks from a wooden podium into a microphone while wearing a light blue short-sleeved shirt on an outdoor stage.

Dean of Students Rob Mayer delivers a faculty address mixing humor with hard truth, listing phrases graduates will "never have to hear again" before reminding them: "The world beyond this campus might not be so forgiving, but you can persevere. You just did." Photo by Flagstaff photographer, Sean Openshaw.

The Voice of Experience: Dean Rob Mayer's Reality Check with Hope


Dean of Students Rob Mayer brought years of experience and a touch of humor to his faculty address, beginning with advice to savor the moment.

"Today is a day that many teachers and administrators visit annually. But for the students graduating today and their families, this day could be a rare event. This is something that many of you are experiencing for the first time. So savor this moment, drink it in. Allow its significance to wash over you."

Mayer acknowledged the unique journey of Summit students with honesty.

"I've been working at Summit for many years. I've seen many students come to this school. Often when they first arrive, they are in a bit of a shock. What did I do to get here? There is an adjustment."

With characteristic directness and humor, he listed the phrases graduates would never have to hear again.

"Go to class. Please don't stand on the toilet. Remember, leave your vape at home. Can I have your phone, please? I don't know where your iPad is."

But beneath the humor was a serious message about resilience.

"Through all of this and more, you manage to persevere. Remember that. The world beyond this campus might not be so forgiving, but you can persevere. You just did."

Mayer's closing words were both a celebration and a charge.

"To achieve something that you might have thought was out of your reach more than once. I've seen many students here who felt defeated. You might've thought, I'm not gonna make it, but you did make it. You graduated. Don't sell this accomplishment short. Use this moment when things get hard after today. Know that you can overcome, that you can persevere."

A graduation commencement ceremony with a presenter at a podium on stage, surrounded by purple flowers outdoors.

Allie Tenney, Student Development Coordinator from NAU's College Knowing and Going program, presents Breonna Franklin with a $3,000 scholarship recognizing her groundbreaking work as Summit's first student ambassador, completing eight milestone projects to help fellow students prepare for life after high school.

Graduate in bright purple cap and gown celebrates with diploma and backpack during outdoor ceremony.

Breonna Franklin accepts a $3,000 College Knowing and Going scholarship, recognized as "a true force of nature" and Summit High School's first student ambassador who dedicated her senior year to helping classmates navigate their post-graduation paths.

Graduate in blue cap and gown stands on outdoor stage during commencement ceremony under sunny sky.

Serenity Quezada takes the stage to accept the Wally Quayle Foundation Scholarship, one of two recipients honored for embodying the resilience and determination that defined Wally Quayle's legacy of creating educational opportunities for students. She plans to attend Coconino Community College and earn her degree at ASU.

Students in blue graduation gowns converse with faculty member during outdoor commencement ceremony.

Through tears, Robin Strong presents the Wally Quayle Foundation Scholarship in memory of her grandfather, who "was like a father to me." Recipients Landon Robertson and Serenity Quezada were honored for embodying the resilience that defines Summit High School's mission.

Investing in Futures. Scholarship Presentations Honor Excellence and Legacy


The ceremony included two significant scholarship presentations that highlighted both individual achievement and community legacy.

School counselor Audrey Bradley, introducing herself in Navajo with her clan affiliations, presented Breonna Franklin for recognition. "Today, we recognize a graduate who is more than a student. Breanna Franklin is a true force of nature. She's intelligent, motivated, and deserving of every success that comes her way," Bradley said.

Allie Tenney from NAU's College Knowing and Going program explained Breonna's unique role. "This is the first time that we've had a student ambassador join our team. And because of Breonna's hard work, she was able to complete eight milestone projects throughout the school year." The result was a $3,000 scholarship to support her college journey.

The second scholarship presentation carried deep significance as Robin Strong presented the Wally Quayle Foundation Scholarship, honoring her grandfather's educational legacy.

"Today, as the granddaughter of Wally Quayle, it is my pleasure and privilege to present the Wally Quayle Scholarship to two Summit High School students," Strong began. "It is important for us to honor his memory and the legacy this scholarship represents."

Strong emphasized the foundation's comprehensive mission. "The scholarship can be used in a variety of meaningful ways, including financial assistance for pursuing higher education, funding extracurricular programs, supplying students with essential materials and resources, and connecting students with mentors who can support them in every way."

Addressing the graduates directly, Strong connected them to her grandfather's values. "Wally was passionate about education, career opportunities, job training, and creating opportunities for students. He would be incredibly proud of the candidates for this scholarship this year, but he would also be incredibly proud of each and every one of you that made it here today because you did something that takes a lot of resilience, and that's something that you can't teach."

Strong shared her grandfather's remarkable contributions to education. "He began his teaching career at the Flagstaff Middle School... His interest was student well-being, and this led him to pursue a master's degree in school counseling." She detailed how he pioneered innovative programs. "He was asked to head the new community schools program. This program opened the school doors to the public, allowing him to start a latch key kid program for morning and afternoon care... He also envisioned a credit community college program before Coconino Community College ever existed."

His impact was lasting. "He was even recognized as one of the top hundred educators in FUSD, and he received this recognition after passing, so he was remembered long after he was gone."

The scholarships were awarded to Landon Robertson, who will attend Coconino Community College's NAU program for business, and Serenity Quezada, who will attend Coconino Community College and earn a degree at ASU.

A black and white photo shows a performer speaking at a podium with a microphone while wearing glasses and a dark outfit.

Robin Strong delivers an emotional tribute to her grandfather Wally Quayle while presenting the foundation's scholarship, sharing how he "dedicated his life to the welfare of students" and pioneered educational programs that opened doors for countless youth in Flagstaff. His legacy as one of FUSD's top 100 educators lives on through this scholarship. Photo by Flagstaff photographer, Sean Openshaw.

Four people sit on a row of white folding chairs against a black curtain background at an outdoor event.

Principal Rachelle Bronson beams with pride from her seat on stage, her smile reflecting the deep personal connection she shares with each graduate. After calling them "warriors of growth" and admitting they'll "forever be in my heart," this moment captures the joy of an educator who has witnessed her students' transformation firsthand. Photo by Flagstaff photographer, Sean Openshaw.

The Moment of Truth. Certification and Final Words


As the ceremony drew to a close, Principal Bronson returned to the podium for the formal certification, joined by Superintendent Penca and Board President Erik Sather. The official language of certification carried extra weight given the journeys these students had traveled.

But it was Bronson's final personal message that captured the essence of Summit High School.

"As a proud principal of Summit High School, I want to say how deeply honored I am to stand before you today. To our graduates and our families, I am beyond proud of each and every one of you. You are some of the most extraordinary young people I have ever met, and you will forever be in my heart. You are truly a gift to the world."

She left them with words of inspiration. "Remember, nothing is impossible. The word itself says, I'm possible. It always seems impossible until it's done. As you move forward, go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the lives you have imagined."

As tassels moved from right to left and the Summit High School Class of 2025 was officially presented, the parking lot erupted in celebration—not just of academic achievement, but of perseverance, second chances, and the power of a school that sees students not for where they've been, but for where they're going.

Graduates in purple robes gather outdoors during a commencement ceremony surrounded by tall pine trees and spectators.

The Summit High School Class of 2025 and their supporters gather in the school parking lot for an outdoor graduation ceremony unlike any other, where stories of resilience, second chances, and triumph over adversity unite graduates, families, and educators under the open sky. This panoramic view captures not just a graduation, but a community's testament to the power of believing in students who refuse to let their struggles define their futures. Photo by Flagstaff photographer, Sean Openshaw.

A graduate in bright blue regalia celebrates on stage during an outdoor commencement ceremony.
Two people in graduation attire pose together at a ceremony, one in black robes and one in bright purple regalia.
Graduate in purple academic regalia and black graduation gown stand together at commencement ceremony.
Two people in graduation regalia standing together at a ceremony, one in blue and one in black gowns, with a dark curtain backdrop.
Two graduates in bright blue and black robes celebrate during an outdoor commencement ceremony on stage.
Graduate wearing royal blue regalia celebrates on outdoor stage during graduation ceremony.
A graduate in purple and black academic regalia stands on stage during a commencement ceremony.
Graduation ceremony on outdoor stage with black backdrop and graduates in traditional academic regalia.
Graduate in blue cap and gown receives diploma on stage at outdoor graduation ceremony.

A Photographer's Reflection. Beyond the Frame


By Sean Openshaw

After more than three decades behind the lens, I've learned that some of the most profound moments at graduations happen in the spaces between the formal proceedings—in the quick squeeze of a grandmother's hand, the silent tears of a parent who wasn't sure this day would come and now filled with love and lost now that it has, or the nervous laughter shared between friends facing an uncertain but hopeful future.

Every time I photograph the graduation ceremony at Summit High School, I witness something extraordinary. This isn't just another graduation; it was a celebration of resilience, of second chances, of young people who refused to let their struggles define their destinations.

As I moved through the crowd, adjusting my focus and framing shots, I was struck by the raw honesty of the speeches. When Elliot Gonzalez spoke about sleeping through classes due to depression, when Aliyah Harrison stood proudly as both graduate and mother, when Principal Bronson's voice broke with emotion—these weren't polished performances. They were testimonies of transformation.

My camera captured the visible joy, the tears, the proud embraces. But there's so much it couldn't capture: The weight lifted from shoulders, the private battles won, the moments of doubt conquered. These invisible victories are just as real as the diplomas handed out today.

I encourage everyone who attended—graduates, families, friends—to take a moment tonight to write down your own memories of this day. What did you feel when your student's name was called? What private promise did you make to yourself as you moved your tassel? What whispered encouragement will you carry forward?

Photos preserve moments but only what you will remember about the moment. It's your written words that preserve meanings.

Years from now, when you look at these images, it will be your written memories that fill in what the camera couldn't capture—the internal moments that made this day truly yours.

Because after 30 years of photographing life's milestones, I've learned this truth: The most important parts of any moment are often the ones that no camera can capture. They live in our hearts, in our memories, and in the stories we choose to tell—the ones we wrote down.


Congratulations, Summit High School Class of 2025. Your journey is proof that there's always more to the story than what meets the eye.