Many of the East Union High seniors at Thursday’s graduation ceremony at Dino Cunial Field experienced a range of emotions.

Happiness to sadness – the special event that made up of some 350 students seated at midfield were made aware that this day marked an end of an era.

Senior Class President Landon Wolfe echoed just that to his fellow graduates. “Today, we celebrate a significant chapter of our lives – graduation,” he said in his senior speech.

Wolfe kicked off the program honoring the Class of 2024 by welcoming those in attendance.

He was followed by the Presentation of Colors by the EU JROTC – Kaitlyn Soriano, who served as the Senior Class Vice President, led in the Pledge of Allegiance, with classmate Grace Silva performing the Star-Spangled Banner.

Recognized posthumously was the memory of Ervin Mendiola Mora, who passed away unexpectedly in October 2022. He was honored at graduation with a vacant seat displaying his portrait and other belongings.

Valedictorian Trinity Pacheco recalled that she and her classmates had to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic along with days of being quarantine in reaching this landmark day. She also thanked those who helped in their support and, in turn, “be the best version of ourselves,” Pacheco added.

Salutatorian Mackenzie Weber provided a few words of wisdom. Included were “make that first impression a good one” and “always be grateful to those who supported you,” she said.

The graduation program at East Union also consisted of Senior Class Secretary Kayla Smith providing a special recognition, Senior Class Treasurer Alysa Jimenez sharing the History of Camelot Court and its longstanding tradition, and ASB Secretary Breeani Rattanasck introducing the student speakers.

Principal Eric Simoni had the honor of presenting the class for certification of their efforts of the past four years.

Manteca Unified Trustee Stephen Schluer gave the acceptance speech for the graduates.

He and fellow board members Marie Freitas, Kathy Howe, and Marisell Guerrero coupled Deputy Superintendent Roger Goatcher, Chief Business & Information Officer Victoria Brunn, Senior Director of Secondary Education Clara Schmiedt, Director of Professional Learning Julie Hollander, and Director of Special Education Jody Burris were on hand to award the diplomas.

The special ceremony concluded with Simoni announcing the Presentation of the Class followed by the new graduates along with members of the audience joining in on the EU alma mater as part of the celebration to remember.