Greer High School’s Class of 2026 officially graduated early Friday morning at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena.

Graduates, families and Greenville County Schools officials filled the arena at 8 a.m. on May 22. Greer High Principal Andrew Baker spoke to the graduates, reminding them that their character will take them farther than talent alone.

“Wherever life takes you, do not lose sight of your purpose,” Baker said. “The world does not just need talented people. It needs people with purpose, people who lead with integrity, who care about others, and make the place around them better.”

In his remarks, Baker highlighted the class of 2026’s achievements, including having the largest graduating class in school history. This year’s cohort also has the highest graduation rate and college-and-career readiness rate in school history. 45% of students earned college credits during their high school careers, giving Greer High the highest percentage of students enrolled in dual credit coursework in Greenville County, Baker said.

Ellie Kole Mason, student body president, spoke to her peers about the legacy of their class. She highlighted several fond memories over the years and encouraged her class to continue to learn and grow post-graduation.

“I thought legacy was something carved in stone or a championship trophy in the glass case at the gym,” Mason said. “But the truth is, legacy isn't about surviving crazy factors; it isn't just what you leave behind, and it definitely isn’t a definable destination. Legacy is the small actions that you take every day to continuously better the world around you. And our legacy isn't waiting for us somewhere in the future. We already started building it in the quiet moments of the last four years.”

Class salutatorian, Zelda Avaline Kinnunen, also spoke to the group about leaving a legacy — specifically, a legacy of kindness. She reminded graduates to always be kind and to value their connections with others.

“Live in the moment, take advantage of the time and the opportunities that you have, because you don't know how much time you have left and you don't know how much time somebody else has left,” Kinnunen said. “
And if you don't do anything else, make an impact on one person's life over these next years. One impact, one word, can change the world.”

The class valedictorian, Kara Lynette Brown, gave the final speech to students, focusing on finding your passion and trusting your life plan. She thanked her teachers and family for helping her find her passion in children’s healthcare. 

“It may take time for you to find your gift, but when you do, hold on to it,” Brown said. “… No matter where life takes us, I hope we move forward grateful for where we came from, confident in where we are going and faithful as we face whatever comes next.”

To watch a recording of the Greer High School class of 2026 graduation ceremony, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MfFtBd-chbg.