BALDWIN PARK – Baldwin Park High School valedictorian Camella Audrey Tieu encouraged her graduating classmates to be open to every opportunity and to not fear feeling lost because together they can reach their paths to happiness.

Tieu shared her thoughts of optimism and togetherness during the Class of 2018’s commencement ceremony on May 31, honoring 400 graduating seniors who accepted long-anticipated diplomas in front of families, friends and educators.

“We are all different, each one of us has our own special talents and interests and we come from various backgrounds,” said Tieu, who earned a 4.57 GPA and will attend UC Irvine.

“We are able to complete each other like a puzzle when we work together, instead of seeing those differences as obstructions,” she said. “I am proud to have witnessed that we have created an environment for each other that is not only welcoming but is a platform for each other to thrive.”

Salutatorian Melissa Lepe highlighted the ups and downs of high school and challenged her peers to push their boundaries of success. Lepe earned a 4.52 GPA and will attend UC Irvine to study aerospace engineering.

Of the 400 graduates, 110 were accepted to one or more four-year universities, including USC, UCLA, Pepperdine and the University of La Verne. Students will also attend community colleges, trade and technical schools and enlist in the U.S. armed forces.

Students graduating with academic honors were recognized, with 22 earning valedictory honors for GPAs of 4.0 or higher. Twelve students received high academic honors with GPAs of 3.8 to 3.99; 31 graduates earned academic honors with GPAs of 3.5 to 3.79.

“We are exceptionally proud of Baldwin Park High School’s Class of 2018,” Baldwin Park Unified Superintendent Dr. Froilan N. Mendoza said. “We wish them all the best as they take the lessons and experiences from Baldwin Park Unified and apply them to their academic and personal pursuits to continue this culture of success.”

PHOTOS

BPUSD_BPHS_GRAD_1: Baldwin Park High School held its commencement ceremony on May 31, honoring 400 graduates eager to embark on the path toward college and careers.

BPUSD_BPHS_GRAD_2: Baldwin Park High School seniors celebrate their successful pursuit of a diploma during an inspiring graduation ceremony.