Article written by Lindzay Mason, Reporter for the Circleville Herald, and was published on June 1, 2026.
MUHLENBERG TOWNSHIP — On Friday, May 29, Westfall High School held their 67th commencement ceremony for their graduating class of 2026 of 107 students.
Student body executive president Sierra Chalk shared, “In the fall, over half of our class will be heading to college or transfer. Thirty-eight percent will head straight into the workforce, and four of us will be serving our country. Thank you for your service.
“As a class, we have excelled in sports, whether it’s making it all team SVC including five first team awards, two second team awards, and five honorable mentions throughout the school year, or beating old school records, including our girls soccer player, who in the past year broke the record for most season wins.
“...We can definitely say that we made our mark on Westfall and our community. As we’ve done, remember all we’ve done and accomplished, and let’s keep going and enjoy.”
Westfall High School principal Dana Ortman added, “The advice I give is that in your life, do not be afraid to fail. We live in a world that’s overflowing with social pressure.
“Let’s face it, a lot of this comes from social media. We’re bombarded each day by our peers and influencers who always seem to be succeeding. We see all their successes, traveling, and they look for all of us online. This completely restores the reality and teaches us to clear the mistakes, the missteps in life.
“But the truth is, if you aren’t failing occasionally, you aren’t growing. Think about it…The real question isn’t whether or when we fail, it’s what we’ve learned from it. Failure is not the opposite of success. It’s a vital ingredient of it. ...Failure proves that you actually dared to try something, where the outcome was clear to you. You took the chance and you did your best.”
He followed that up with, “Adulthood will bring setbacks and challenges, but it’s resilience that defines success. Class of 2026, my wish for you is a life of profound impact and continuous growth.
“Impact is committed to involve risk. It requires a willingness to be a beginner at some times. And as you move to the next chapter, whatever it may be, whether you’re going to the university, whether you’re starting to be a job, whether you’re going to the military, or directly into the workforce, carry the Westfall legacy of pride.
“Take risks, take chances, and work hard and you will be surprised at the results. Be kind, stay curious, and when you fail make sure you fall forward. Remember, talent is great, but integrity, kindness, and the choices you make to this day are truly on your character. You are in the driver’s seat of your own lives starting tonight.
“Don’t wait. This is your time. Own it. And every single second of it, believe in yourself. Believe in your capacity to do great things. Believe that there is no mountain too high for you to climb and no storm too fierce for you to love.”
Kathryn Lockhart, valedictorian, said, “I think it’s valuable to have your own perspective, whether it be on movies, or stories, or life, but it’s important to understand and take the consideration of the perspective of others.
“Last November, I saw an author named Salman Rushdie, and he talked about the importance of listening to other people’s perspectives on stories. I think this approach is useful in practically all situations.
“To understand people is to connect with them, to connect with people is to foster social growth, emotional growth, societal growth, and so on. Importantly, for connection with others, you realize you are more alone.
“Graduation adds an end of your life, while you’re in the middle, you may feel isolated. Whether you’re going to college or trade school or a straight-end career or even in your career, your life is going to change.
“Talking to people about how they adapt to life, asking a question, you realize that it’s not a lone experience, You might feel alone, but never be scared to reach out to other people. It’s a great task for other people’s opinion, or their own fault.”
Westfall Board of Education President Mark Ruff followed with, “If you’re going to do anything in your life, compare yourself today to the one you were yesterday, and then dream about what you will be doing.
“My prayer for you is that every day after you walk out of here, you take a little time to figure out who you are, and take the time to figure out what makes you amazing. and make a decision to build relationships that bring peace and inspiration for yourself and the others. Be true to yourself and God bless you.”
Westfall superintendent Jason Fife also said, “This is such a great evening to honor these young men and women in the accomplishments of graduating high school this evening.
“I’d also like to thank our staff for the turnout this evening and the dedication that you show each and every day. So thanks for being here.
“I’m very proud to serve as the superintendent of this school district. It’s truly my privilege as a superintendent to serve such an exceptional group of students and dedicated staff and again, this is a supportive community here. You represent the very best of Pickaway County, carrying with you a proud legacy of the Westfall School District. This legacy embodies the hardworking agricultural community and families that proudly represent Deer Creek, Jackson, Monroe, Muhlenberg, and Perry Townships.
“Most importantly this evening, I have the distinct honor of presenting the class of 2026 this evening. Having met the academic standards set forth by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, as well as the Westfall Local School District Board of Education, I’m excited to confirm that all students receiving their diplomas tonight have met the required obligations.
“Each of you have earned this moment and your accomplishments are a testament to the person you are and to the futures that are before you. Again, you’ll hear many times this evening but it is truly a part of life. No matter where life takes you, remember, Westfall will always be your home and a place that you can always call your home.
“I wish you much happiness, success, and good health in all that you do. Congratulations, we’re incredibly proud of you.”
