Last Friday’s annual commencement ceremony for the East Union High Class of 2023 was held away from home.

There were 329 seniors that day celebrated their accomplishments at the University of the Pacific’s Spanos Center as Dino Cunial Field is currently undergoing renovations.

Many of the traditions continued.

Included was the pageantry of the Camelot Court – a select group of junior girls that have been part of the EU graduation since 1985. Senior class Vice President Megan Smolensky shared that history.

Principal Eric Simoni, who spent the past several years as principal at Escalon High, oversaw his first graduation in his return to his alma mater.

The special event consisted of senior class President Mia Labrador giving the welcoming speech, the EU JROTC doing the presentation of colors, Jea’Marie McCarter (senior class Activities Director) and Marisa Rogers (senior class Secretary) leading in the Pledge of Allegiance, and Alyssa Cutter performing the National Anthem.

Senior class Treasurer Zavier Sadorra handled the special recognition while senior class President Courtney Amaral introduced the speakers.

Giving graduation speeches for the Class of 2023 were valedictorian Sophia Sulamo, salutatorian Daniel Hudson, and senior Kylee Gann.

Graduation wrapped up with the classmates and audience proudly reciting the East Union Alma Mater.