On Thursday, June 5, the 72nd graduating class of Minnetonka High School celebrated its commencement at US Bank Stadium. 

The program opened with “Pomp and Circumstance” played by the MHS band and orchestra while just under 900 graduates entered the stadium, followed by a greeting from student emcees Claire Chapman and Zeynep Tosun. The band and orchestra then played the National Anthem.

Superintendent David Law welcomed graduates and their families to the ceremony. “Tonight I stand here before you with deep pride, not just as your superintendent, but as someone who has watched this remarkable class grow, strive and shine,” Superintendent Law said in his address. 

“When I think about what we hope for each student who crosses this stage, it’s simple yet powerful—that you’ve had the chance to explore what interests you, that you’ve found sparks of curiosity, purpose and even passion, and that somewhere in your journey, you’ve been invited to build community, to serve others and maybe even to lead,” said Superintendent Law. He encouraged graduates to carry forward the District’s theme of finding and creating excellence in how they live, lead and learn in all that they do in the future. 

The audience enjoyed a live musical performance from students Jackson Deutsch, Erik Lopezmalo, Mason Pardoe and Sam Vallancourt who sang a rendition of “Yesterday” by the Beatles.

The Class of 2025 then heard remarks from student speaker Tobias Thomasson and student-chosen faculty speaker Stephanie Lolich. 

Thomasson reflected on the meaning of “forever” and encouraged his classmates to relish the present while striving to challenge themselves in the years ahead. 

“I’ve seen what we can create when we work together on a common goal, and I’ve seen what comes when we unite ourselves out of clashing desires. I choose working together every time,” said Thomasson. “We’ve collectively made a community of passion, of service, of love and respect. For that, I am so very proud of you, forever.” 

Lolich, a business teacher at Minnetonka High School, reflected on the Class of 2025’s unique characteristics, as shared with her by fellow teachers, by administrators and by students. 

“You’ve been through so much together as a class, but you never stopped showing up,” said Lolich. “You brought heart, you brought humor and man did you bring the hustle! When nothing was certain, you found your footing. When plans got scrapped, you adapted. Tonight, we honor the strength, the spirit and the growth that brought you to this moment.” 

She concluded by encouraging the class to use their specific strengths, from their innovation to their gift for building meaningful relationships, to guide them in the years ahead of them. 

Between Thomasson and Lolich’s addresses, seniors Sarah Erickson, Liam Halloran, Chandler Olson and Prisha Somashekara performed “Slipping Through My Fingers” by ABBA. 

The concert choir sang “I’ll Be on My Way” by Sean Kirschner, directed by Aaron Kohrs. The symphony orchestra and wind ensemble then joined together to perform “Finlandia” by Jean Sibelius, directed by Sarah Finn-Sommerfeld and Kevin Kleindl. 

Minnetonka High School Principal Jeff Erickson shared his gratitude for the Class of 2025, encouraging them as they pursue their next opportunities before formally recommending the class for graduation. 

“Seniors, you have been the highlight of my work. I am very proud of you and I will miss you,” said Erickson. “Class of 2025, we need your leadership, implemented with curiosity and creativity, and coupled with your kindness and empathy toward others. I cannot wait to see what you do.”

Congratulations, Class of 2025! 

A recorded livestream of the full commencement program is available here. Event photos from the graduation ceremony will be made available in the coming days.