By Terra Avilla
When Leyla first approached me about giving a speech at the Lassen High School Baccalaureate, I honestly had no idea if I should say yes.
Public speaking isn’t exactly my comfort zone, but Leyla was just so darn encouraging—her enthusiasm is contagious. And once I heard that Johnelle Wright would be speaking as well, I knew I had to be part of it.
There’s something about being surrounded by people who believe in you that makes you want to step up.
For anyone unfamiliar, the baccalaureate is a special ceremony held before graduation, in which Prayer in very much a part of the ceremony. It’s a chance for the graduating seniors to gather, take a breath, and celebrate everything they’ve accomplished before the whirlwind of graduation day. It was held at Susanville Assembly of God, and I can honestly say there was magic in the air.
Before the event even started, I was lucky enough to give several of the seniors hugs as they gathered backstage. There’s something so special about those moments—seeing their nervous excitement, sharing a few words of encouragement, and just letting them know how proud we all are.
I have to admit, I’ve officially reached that age where I look at these graduating seniors and think, “Wait a second, how can you possibly be graduating already? I swear you were just five years old, running around with sticky hands and missing teeth!”
It’s a real sign that I’ve been part of this community long enough to have those “I remember when…” moments. Honestly, it’s both hilarious and slightly alarming to realize I’ve become the person who tells stories about how fast they grow up—next thing you know, I’ll be handing out butterscotch candies and calling everyone “kiddo.”
Looking into their faces, I could see so much potential—so many dreams ready to take flight. It’s impossible not to feel hopeful about the future when you’re surrounded by that kind of energy.
Watching the seniors in their robes, lined up on stage, was a moment I won’t forget. There’s a kind of electricity when you see so many young people on the brink of something new, surrounded by friends, family, and the teachers who’ve watched them grow.
What really blew me away, though, was the sheer talent on display. So many high schoolers stepped up to perform—singing, dancing, playing instruments, sharing their gifts with all of us. Each performance was a reminder of just how much heart and creativity lives in this community.
And then there was Zayn Wright, who absolutely nailed it as the MC. That guy has real talent—he kept the whole event moving with a mix of humor, warmth, and genuine care for his classmates. Between Zayn’s hosting, the choir’s beautiful harmonies, and the rose ceremonies (which, let’s be honest, had more than a few of us in tears), my heart was SO full.
It’s nights like this that remind me why we love this place. It’s not just the events or the traditions—it’s the people. The way we show up for each other, the way we celebrate together, and the way we send our seniors off into the world with so much love and support.
I left the baccalaureate feeling grateful, inspired, and more than a little emotional. And I wouldn’t have it any other way, because after all… it’s one of the reasons I love where we live.
