WILLOW WOOD — A large crowd packed the Symmes Valley High School gym on Sunday afternoon to see the school’s 57 graduates receive their diplomas.

Greg Bowman presided over his first graduation as Symmes Valley High School principal, a class that brought in more than $90,000 in scholarships and had 23 members graduate with honors.

“I think we have a great group of kids,” Bowman said. “I am proud to celebrate this day with them,. This is my first graduation as principal and they are my first class. If I leave them with any message it would be to continue to pursue an education in some shape or form.”

Summa Cum Lade graduate Kyle Vallance gave a short but passionate speech with a message not aimed at his fellow graduates, but to those preparing to begin the journey of high school.

“I’m speaking to the incoming freshman,” Vallance said. “High school can be a special time. Become involved, play a sport, join a club, but most importantly, be yourself.”

During the ceremony each graduate was recognized for achievements he or she had made during their high school careers, as well as having their plans for the future announced to the audience.