Ripon High’s Class of 2021 enjoyed an actual graduation ceremony on Friday.

The special event also marked the debut of the grand entry into Stouffer Field with the recent completion of the RHS Bathroom/Bleachers Reconstruction Project.

The graduating class consisting of 224 seniors made their way to the stadium along the newly paved 14-foot-wide walkway with a dozen newly-planted Bay Laurel trees – both projects were made possible via joint effort between the Ripon Unified School District, the Ripon Community Athletic Foundation, and numerous volunteers.

Superintendent Ziggy Robeson had the honors of the cutting the ribbon to mark the opening of the recently completed structure featuring upgraded restrooms and new visitor bleachers – those in attendance were the first to publicly use these new amenities in the stadium.

Principal Keith Rangel mentioned earlier that he was thrilled about getting back to a traditional graduation only with some medications, given that last year’s class was a drive-thru event amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Members of the Class of 2021 along with dignitaries and RHS staff followed CDC safety protocols by wearing masks while trying to maintain some social distancing on this special occasion.

Jocelyn Baliel performed the National Anthem while the presentation of colors was once again handled by the RHS JROTC.

Senior Class President and valedictorian Brendan Lan and salutatorian Nicole Nguyen were the student speakers.

Rangel presented the class with RUSD board – President Caroline Hutto, Chad Huskey, Kit Oase, Christina Orlando and Vince Hobbs – distributed the diplomas.

Along with the memories of the past four years, classmates also shared their motto: “Through the depth of challenge, our distinctions bring light to our essence. Unique truth builds resilience, striving to reach new heights.”