Commencement Speech to a Special Class.

I'll never forget the feeling of walking up to the podium to address the seniors at their commencement ceremony last week... for one, I've never been so terrified to speak, but also, I felt incredibly fortunate to be chosen by the students as the honoured teacher speaker at their graduation. When I think of all the teachers that give these addresses, I can't help but think that I don't fit in... from Rossi to Heim to Dowd, they are all teachers that have been around a while and the students just adore and respect their wisdom and experiences. I didn't expect to ever be among that crowd, but I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share my perspective and message with the students; it's probably a bit different than what most of the teachers speak about, but it comes from the heart and from what I know. I spoke about exploration and the importance of taking risks to discover success. I spoke about finding inspiration and letting it lead you to new places, physically, mentally, emotionally. I spoke about how to become an explorer and how to make personal meaning along your adventures. I quoted Frank Zappa; he's a hell of an explorer!

The Class of 2010 has had the greatest impact on me as a teacher and has also inspired me in many ways. My first year at Wheat Ridge High School was their first year, and it's been pretty freaking cool watching them grow into mature artists and young adults... and some of them have passed me now, as artists and maturity! This senior class paved the way for a successful year... earning all sorts of accolades, and having a grip of fun along the way...

In 2010, Studio 23 became pioneers of a national art competition with Vans, inspiring 365 schools across the country to participate in a custom shoe contest... and we earned a spot in the twenty finalists within the competition. 2010 marks the inaugural year for the WR Art Honour Society, boasting 23 seniors graduating with honours and varsity letters in fine arts. In 2010, we won back-to-back league championships and had a great baseball season... from Arizona dominance to hosting district playoffs. In 2010, the seniors of Studio 23 earned a mess of awards at the Jeffco Senior High Arts Exhibition, the Congressional Art Exhibition, and the Scholastics Art & Writing Awards. And, in 2010, we will be sending double-digit (over nine) graduates to art schools and universities across the country to focus on art as a career... from Pratt Institute to Savannah College of Art + Design to Western Washington University to Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design and beyond!

I'm obviously proud of these kids and look forward to how they colour their futures!