Huntington, IN - The Huntington Optimist Club hosted its annual Top 25 Scholars Luncheon on Thursday, May 1, honoring Huntington North High School's highest academic achievers from the Class of 2025. The celebration took place at the Historic Forks of the Wabash in Huntington, bringing together students, families, educators, and community leaders to recognize these exceptional seniors' accomplishments.
Optimist Club President Michele Crone welcomed attendees and congratulated the scholars on their remarkable achievements. The event included an invocation by Optimist Club member Joy Koch, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and recitation of the Optimist Creed led by Charles Chapman.
John Nelson, financial advisor for Edward Jones and Rotary Club president, delivered an inspiring keynote address that combined humor with heartfelt advice for the graduates. Nelson encouraged the students to maintain an optimistic outlook as they transition to the next chapter of their lives, sharing practical wisdom about navigating college, careers, and adulthood.
"You've shown what it means to be the best of the best, academically, evidently, and perhaps most importantly, by mastering how to stay awake during early morning classes," Nelson joked. His address emphasized the power of positivity, challenging negative thoughts, finding humor, taking action, and celebrating small victories.
Nelson acknowledged the unique challenges this generation has faced, including navigating junior high during a pandemic, adapting to technological changes, and managing mental health challenges amid constant information streams. "Through it all, you not only endured, but you've also achieved great things," he noted.
The keynote speaker closed with encouragement for the seniors to continue making a positive impact: "Each of you has a story, a story still being written, and we can't wait to see what happens in your sequel."
Tiffanney Drummond, principal of the Huntington North Learning Center, presented certificates to the honorees. Each student introduced themselves and shared their future plans, which included attending prestigious universities, joining the military, and entering the workforce.
Huntington County Community School Corporation Superintendent John Trout concluded the event with congratulatory remarks, reflecting on the students' journey from kindergarten to graduation. "Let this moment remind you that hard work matters, that excellence is possible, and that you're capable of extraordinary things," Trout said. He expressed hope that the graduates would one day return to call Huntington home.
The luncheon was sponsored by Bippus State Bank, First Federal Savings Bank, JJ's, and Lake City Bank. Nadean's Catering provided the meal, with venue support from Jim Schieber and volunteers at the Forks of the Wabash.