MHS Begins Commencement Week with Senior Chapel and Ring Ceremony
One week before Milton Hershey School’s 91st Commencement Ceremony, numerous emotions filled Founders Hall Auditorium during a special 2025 Senior Chapel and Ring Ceremony. The event was the seniors’ final MHS chapel service prior to their graduation on Sunday, June 15.
Senior John Ademuwagun opened the ceremony by reflecting on his life before MHS. Ademuwagun was born in the United States but attended school in Nigeria at the age of 10.
“I went to school in the middle of chaos. High walls, barbed wire, and armed guards were our normal,” Ademuwagun said. “One day, a terrorist group, Boko Haram, kidnapped girls from a school just thirty minutes away. I was terrified. I questioned everything—my safety, my innocence, even my parents’ decision.”
Ademuwagun enrolled at MHS in 2019.
“Milton Hershey School is not just a school—it’s an experience, a family. A home where we live with students from all walks of life,” he said. “We’ve been given more than just opportunity—we’ve been blessed beyond belief, surrounded by love.”
Senior Chase Ingram reflected on how shy she was when she joined the school community in eighth grade.
“Without the support of my amazing teachers and staff, and my friends, I would have never left my comfort zone and met new people,” she said. “Since my arrival, change has radiated through me.”
Several musical selections were included in the service, including a moving rendition of the opera piece “Duo Des Fleurs” performed by seniors Madelin Bibeau and Zaiah Peterman.
Pastor Will Ogle told the audience, which included students from all divisions, to carry the 2024-25 school year’s theme, Raise the Bar, into the future.
“If you want to Raise the Bar on something, might I suggest love. You have one life, don’t waste your time. If you are not intentional, it will waste your time,” Ogle said.
After the conclusion of chapel, President Pete Gurt ’85 began the annual ring ceremony. The MHS class ring tradition dates back to the 1930s, symbolizing unity and a deep connection to the Hershey legacy. This ring design is one of the oldest in the nation, representing the school’s enduring values and its bond with alumni.
“The MHS class ring is earned, not by academic credits but rather a demonstration of our Sacred Values—integrity, positive spirit, mutual respect, and commitment to mission,” Gurt said.
Gurt added that his class ring represents gratitude, friendship, and loyalty. He challenged students to spend the days leading up to commencement reflecting on their time at MHS and expressing gratitude to those who helped them on their journey.
See all of our commencement week events
Rewatch the 2025 Senior Chapel and Ring Ceremony
Hear from MHS seniors, Visual and Performing Arts groups, and staff at this special and unique celebration.
