PVHS Class of 2026 celebrates graduation under the lights

Graduates of Pahranagat Valley High School crossed the stage Friday evening, May 22, as family, friends, faculty and community members gathered on the football field in Alamo to celebrate the Class of 2026.

Held beneath the stadium lights, the ceremony honored 25 graduates as they closed one chapter of life and prepared to begin another.

Senior class president Melissa Marshall welcomed guests, describing the evening as “a night that represents lessons learned and memories made.”

Members of the senior class performed the National Anthem before class advisor and coach Michael Strong recognized the accomplishments of the graduating class. Strong also shared the story behind valedictorian Todd Hansen’s nickname, “the wasp,” joking that Hansen earned “superpowers” after being stung by a wasp before an away football game, after which he delivered one of his best performances on the field.

Hansen blended humor with encouragement during his valedictory address, challenging classmates to remain committed to their goals and continue pushing through adversity.

“Today is where success actually begins,” Hansen said. “No one will hand you success for just showing up.”

Salutatorian Trevor Thiriot reflected on lessons learned beyond academics, reminding classmates that meaningful accomplishments take perseverance.

“The most worthwhile things take time,” Thiriot said. “It’s okay not to have everything figured out.”

He encouraged graduates to continue learning, to listen more than they speak and to remember that character and kindness matter long after grades are forgotten.

Marshall later returned to the podium to thank teachers, families and supporters who helped guide the class through both successes and struggles.

“Congratulations to the Class of 2026 — we did it,” she said.

Graduates and guests were also treated to a musical performance of “I’ll Fly Away” by Jesse Stewart and Trevor Thiriot, accompanied by banjo and guitar.

Guest speaker Lance “Hawk” Higbee was introduced by his niece and graduate Alivia Walch. Higbee, a PVHS alumnus, encouraged students to focus on “peace and strength” through three guiding principles: developing positive daily habits and routines, becoming peacemakers and seeking strength through faith in God.

“Character is not defined by your thoughts,” Higbee said. “It’s defined by your actions.”

Higbee reminded the graduates to always remember people are people and life goes on. “God is good, and you can find strength in knowing that.”

Multiple scholarships were read by Emilee Frehner, honoring each senior graduate. She closed with, “It has been an honor to work with you, and I love you.”

After scholarships were announced, Paisley McVey introduced Lincoln County School District representatives Brittney Laforett and Wade Poulsen.

Graduates eagerly crossed the stage to receive their diplomas and paused for handshakes and  photographs with Pahranagat Valley High School Principal Brooke Formaster and Lincoln County School District board members Poulsen and Laforett.

As the ceremony came to a close, members of the Class of 2026 officially turned their tassels from right to left before tossing their caps high into the air in celebration, drawing cheers and applause from the crowd. Family and friends rushed the field to congratulate the graduates.

Following the ceremony, graduates continued celebrating during Senior Night activities organized by senior parents, bringing the PVHS Class of 2026’s final evening together to a close.