Acclamation of the Great Bend High School 2026 graduating class took place Sunday, May 10, at Memorial Stadium.
The GBHS Band performed the processional and recessional music, “Pomp and Circumstance,” by Elgar. Class President MacKenzie Lindberg led the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.
Along with speeches by co-valedictorians Katherine Mazouch and Allie Gerhardt, GBHS Principal Brock Funke welcomed the audience and gave the commencement address.
“Welcome and good evening,” he began. “I want to thank everyone for coming to help us celebrate the Great Bend High School Class of 2026. Thank you to our amazing maintenance, grounds, and custodial staff, as well as the counselors and secretaries, for all their time and effort in making this day happen.”
He started with a quote from former Alabama Head football coach Nick Saban, who said, “If you want to be good, you don’t have a lot of choices, because it takes what it takes.”
“It’s simple, but it’s some of the best advice you’ll ever hear,” Funk said. “The reality is this: the only person you have control over is yourself. No one else. So if you aren’t reaching your goals, don’t feel successful, or aren’t where you want to be, that’s on you. If you want something to change, then change it. And if you’re not willing to put in the work to improve your situation, then don’t point the finger at anyone else. Stay determined, lean on your attitude and your effort. No one else decides how you show up each day. Own your attitude. Own your work ethic. Those two things are always within your control. All of you are more than capable of great things; you have proven it to us over and over to all of us. If you don’t succeed, keep trying and learn as you go.”
“Just stay after it and remember, ‘It takes what it takes.’”
He continued, “This next bit of advice is pretty solid. No one wins arguments on Facebook or any other social media platform, for that matter. Don’t waste your time trying to change other people’s opinions. It’s not going to happen. “No one has ever changed their life because of an argument on Facebook. No one has ever said, ‘You know what… that stranger with the Minions profile picture really opened my eyes today.’ We live in a world where people argue over things like the color of a dress, whether cereal is soup, whether a hot dog is a sandwich, or if Trenton Kern is actually 32 years old. Just kidding, TK. Mr. Funke loves ya, bud.
“Again, no one wins an argument on social media. Don’t waste your time there, just do as I do and read the comments. That is some of the best entertainment out there.
“Next and probably the most important thing you can do every single day, regardless of talent, money, or skill, is simple: be kind. It costs nothing. At the end of the day, no matter how educated, talented, or cool you are, it’s how you treat others that ultimately tells people everything they need to know about you. You never have to treat anyone poorly; that is a choice, so choose kindness.
“Last thing to remember, don’t forget to have fun. We only get one ride on this wonderful place called Earth, so be present where your feet are and enjoy it.”
In conclusion
“Seniors, we’ve had some great times. We’ve had some learning moments.
“You’ve had a lot of success. And some of you …Well, you may have shortened Mr. Westerhaus’s life expectancy just a little bit.
“Graduates, our time together at Great Bend High School has come to an end. On behalf of this community, this school district, and this staff, we hope you understand the impact you’ve made and the joy you’ve brought to all of us. You have made us better people and taught us so much. What a ride it has been.
“Please remember that all of us here today are your people. We will always be here for you. No matter what. That doesn’t change. None of us got to where we are today on our own. We’re here because of the people who raised us, taught us, coached us, pushed us, held us accountable, stood by our side, and believed in us. They helped shape your story, and they’re still part of it. Never stop leaning on your people. Let them remind you of your strength when you forget. That’s how we make it in this life, together. Seniors, thank you. We are proud of you. We love you. And remember: Once a Panther, always a Panther!
“Let’s hand out some diplomas!”
