Dexter Opps

Good afternoon community members, friends, family and of course, the Powell High School class of 2025.

I’d like to begin by giving a heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make today possible. To our teachers, administrators, coaches, family members, friends and everyone in between, thank you. Thank you for the countless hours you spent guiding us, believing in us and standing beside us, even when your work went unseen or without praise.

Thank you for your patience during the difficult times. Thank you for encouraging us to strive for excellence and to become the best versions of ourselves. Without your support and dedication, none of us would be standing here today.

Throughout high school, we’ve worked hard to find success. As a class, we’ve poured ourselves into academics, athletics, extracurriculars and other passions. Through this commitment, we’ve earned state championships not only in sports but also in clubs and competitions outside the spotlight. Our achievements extend far beyond what any test score, sophomore year WYTOPP included, could measure.

As I reflect on the last 13 years of our education, what stands out isn’t the grades I received or the assignments we completed. What stands out are the connections we formed with teachers, classmates, coaches and even opponents. These relationships shaped us in ways no syllabus ever could.

Looking back, it feels like everything went by so fast. Rarely in the moment did I slow down enough to appreciate just how important the people around me were. I spent so much time working for the next goal grades, competitions and performances that I sometimes forgot to be present. And while I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished, I wish I’d spent a little less time focusing on my classes, and a little more time enjoying the moments and people around me.

Up to this point, we’ve largely walked the same path — school, classes, sports, events. But as we step into this next chapter of life, our journeys will begin to diverge. Each of us will face new challenges, ones we’ve never experienced before. But more importantly, we will also encounter new opportunities: opportunities to grow, to connect with people from all walks of life, and to define our own versions of success.

Senior year is full of “lasts.” Our last homecoming. Our last prom. Our last time watching Mr. Fulton pace in circles while teaching. And now, our last time walking through the halls of Powell High School as students. These moments mark the end of one chapter, but they also signal the start of something new.

The next chapter of your life may be uncertain, but it’s yours to write. So, take chances. Embrace change. Be bold. And when you feel fear creeping in, remember the words of Babe Ruth: “Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.”

Don’t let fear stop you from chasing your passions, taking risks, or being who you truly are.

Class of 2025, we have so much ahead of us. Let’s step into the future with courage, with purpose, and with the same spirit that brought us here today. Congratulations. We made it.