Niles Township High School West - Spectrum Yearbook (Skokie, IL)

Page 23 text:

A for achievement T he class of 1986 had their fun in the sun on Sunday June eighth, as they bid the school a last farewell. The students tried to maintain their composure but the hot June sun and the excitement in the air created a bubbly stir throughout the soon-to-be graduates. The ceremony was held outside on the Basrak Field due to excellent conditions in the weather. Beach balls went flying and the wave” was attempted. Despite the occas¬ sional bursts in spirit, the graduation ceremony was an overall success. The band played triumphantly, The Greatest Love of All” was sung by the choral group. Ex¬ pressions, inspiring speeches were made and, of course, diplomas were awarded. Coming in four years earlier as naive, young freshmen, the class of 1986 left as proud and enthusiastic adults. Jill Hedrich Smiling, Donna Erickson receives her diploma from Dr. Stein. Students achieved many goals in their four years at Niles West. The class of 1986 applauds as the graduation ceremonies begin. Due to good weather conditions, the commencement took place on Basrak Field and the graduates had their big day in the sun. Graduate Chris Cordes proudly holds his diplo¬ ma in the air for all to see. The graduates are filled with pride as they receive the award for their accomplishments. Graduation

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Several speeches were given throughout the ceremony before the diplomas were awarded. The graduates sit attentivly as Mark Poulakidas gives his opening speech. Valedictorian Jerry Kang gives an inspiring speech on the accomplishments of the gradu¬ ates. his was one of the several speeches given during the ceremony. 18 Graduation

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Mingling at the mixer F reshmen and Sophomores danced, mingled, and talked throughout the evening at the Frosh-Soph Mixer, which was sponsored by the Sophomore Class Cabinet. The mixer was held in the cafeteria and courtyard, which had been transformed into a dance hall with red and white crepe paper on the walls and beams. As the evening progressed, there were students dancing on the floor and some as Lionel Richie says, Dancing on the ceiling. ' ' Some wore togas to express the spirit of Animal House ; while others came as themselves. Through danc¬ ing and exchanging smiles, students found it easy to meet and mingle with other classmates. Though the freshmen took a little longer to get into the groove ; in the end, like the sophomores, they wanted the night to go on forever. Refreshments and popcorn were served by the class cabinet members, to help cool down the students. The courtyard was open to give the students some fresh air and a quiet place to talk to old and new friends. Mot only was the attendance up to par, but the students who at¬ tended thoroughly enjoyed themselves, commented Sophomore Class President Megan Goldish. Patty Tzortzis Sophomores Jeff Seidman and Melissa Ohlson enjoy a slow dance, riot only did freshmen and sophomores become acquainted, but couples were able to enjoy the first dance of the year. Sophomores reunite at the Mixer after the long summer. By dressing in togas and war paint, they display their school spirit. Freshman-Sophomore Mixer