Murphy High Graduation 2007
"Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."
By Lizz Harold

Amid a demolished stadium, friends and family poured on to Murphy High's football field this past Saturday morning to witness the graduation of the Class of 2007.

The ceremony began with faculty descending the stadium steps, followed by the graduates.

After a brief welcome from Student Government President Colton Mathews, he and others joined the Murphy High Chorus for a rendition of "This Little Light of Mine", led by Choral instructor Betty Sue Cowan.

Mathews and Senior Class President Abigail Forrister addressed the crowd with charming personal reflections of not just their graduating class but of their town and it's residents.

"We may often joke or complain about this town, but can anyone have a more beautiful setting in which to live?" Forrister asked the audience.

"Let us embrace this town as a platform to move on," she said in closing, "Or keep it as our address."

Mathews advised his classmates on how to carry the traditions of Murphy High into the future.

"As we go on, may we never compromise our values or forget this blessed area from which we've come," he said, resonating with an insight that inspired applause from within the crowd.

All in attendance were asked to sing along with the school Alma Mater. After the moving performance, diplomas were awarded and tassels turned.

The graduates celebrated the moment with a shower of silly spray and a surprise firework display at the back of the field.

Murphy High's senior class proved to be well organized and exceeded all expectation for a memorable and moving graduation experience.

The unforgettable ceremony was one of many the school has played host to since it's construction in 1957. Over 50 years later it's doors have remained open as those who have graduated pass through to the future, leaving the doors open to those who will continue to experience the tradition of Murphy High School.