An inspiring gathering at the Ross Ragland Theater brought local high school seniors together on September 29 for Graduation Motivation, an exciting start to the school year focused on inspiring students to stay in school and graduate in June. Hosted by Klamath Promise under the leadership of Jessie McClung, this annual event invited seniors from Klamath Basin high schools, along with Butte Valley and Tulelake high schools, to hear messages of encouragement and begin planning for their futures.
Bringing together local educators, higher education representatives, military recruiters, community organizations, and business leaders, the event encouraged students to finish their senior year strong while considering post-graduation opportunities. Josephine Ness, executive director of admissions and advising at Oregon Tech, opened the event by describing senior year as a critical turning point and urging students to make decisions about their futures with intentionality. Technical Sergeant Marc Hawthorne from the Oregon Air National Guard at the 173rd Fighter Wing, Kingsley Field, alongside Oscar Herrera, Klamath Community College’s Director of Retention and Student Success, shared financial aid, education, and career opportunities available locally. Community leadership was also highlighted by Holly Stork, founder of the Do Good Gang, and David Stork, Chief Legal Officer for Lithia & Driveway, who challenged students to finish strong and remember to thank the guides who helped them along their journey.
Featured keynote speaker Jake French brought a deeply personal perspective to the event, sharing his story of resilience following a 2008 accident that left him quadriplegic. Challenging students to focus on what they can control, French encouraged seniors to build a strong “life resumé,” avoid self-limiting words like “can’t,” “won’t,” and “don’t,” and cultivate a problem-solving mindset focused on possibilities. Following the presentations, seniors received swag bags generously provided by event sponsors Oregon Tech, Oregon Air National Guard, Klamath Community College, Lithia & Driveway, and the Do Good Gang.
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