Grads set to bring Niverville to the world

There were more new Niverville High School graduates than ever to bring the town’s sensibilities to the world as 92 teenagers in the class of 2025 chart their course into adulthood.

Niverville class of 1983 alumnus and Canadian diplomat Mark Eichhorst spoke of the importance of roots and exploration on this journey, saying no matter where he was in the world, he was still a small-town kid at heart.

“Don’t forget about this incredible little town. The values and connections… and friendships that you’ve developed in your time here are extremely valuable. They will come in hand down the road.

“For some of you, maybe the idea of staying in this community is what appeals to you the most, and that’s also fine. But my challenge to that group is do not forget about the world beyond Niverville, beyond Manitoba, beyond Canada. The lessons and perspectives that you will gain by expanding your horizons will benefit not only you, but your community,” said Eichhorst, continuing with his advice on expanding horizons.

“Being a tourist is one way to experience the world. But to really appreciate a different culture and a different way of thinking, you need to go a bit deeper than simply staying at a resort in a foreign country. Look for opportunities to spend a bit longer somewhere to really get to know people.”

He suggested study exchanges or trying a job in a faraway place. Eichhorst himself has a long list of jobs he had before becoming a diplomat, from waiter to substitute teacher, vacuum salesman to tree planter.

“And if anyone wants to know about the operations of a water buffalo dairy farm in Laos, just come talk to me afterwards and I’ll hook you up,” he said to laughs from the packed gym.

Before heading to the Southeast Event Centre in Steinbach for their graduation dinner – the facility’s first for a high school – valedictorian Emily Plessis took to the podium.

“What makes today so special is it’s the end – or at least that’s how I’ve always viewed it. The end of high school, the end of an era, the end of a long-lasting battle,” said Plessis.

“And while this all may be true, today is so much more than just an ending. It’s the start to so many beginnings.

“We’ll be beginning new jobs, schools, careers. We’ll make new friends, move to new provinces, and for some even a new country.

“So yes, we can sit here and think of all the things coming to an end today, but we are much better off cherishing the moments we’ve made here and thinking of all the moments we’ll be creating in the years to come.”