The Piedmont High School class of 2022 had their moment in the sun on Thursday, June 2 at Witter Field. The mood was joyous as the bleachers filled with friends and family who had gathered to celebrate the more than 200 graduating seniors.
Dr. Andria Mullan directed the PHS band in the prelude (“True Blue” by Karl King, arranged by Swearingen), “Pomp and Circumstance” processional, and recessional (“March de Triomphe” by Elliot del Borgo). The PHS Acappella choir under the direction of Ming Luke sang the National Anthem. The Senior members of Acappella also sang “Stand by Me,” by Ben E. King.
Speaking for the Class of 2022 were Wesley Jeng and Jacob Hsia (Salutatorians) and Aaron Drumm (Valedictorian), and Alyssa Wong, the Senior Class Speaker. Charlotte Levy presented the class gift.
The commencement speaker was former U.S. Ambassador to Australia Jeff Bleich who spoke about being courageous in trying times. (See full text below.). His speech received a standing ovation from students, staff, administrators, and audience members.
(Editor’s note: An earlier version of this article only included photos of one salutatorian when there were two this year. We regret the error.)
A bagpiper plays during the ceremony 
The Acappella group performs the National Anthem 
The stadium was full for the graduation ceremony 
Students in the band play the recessional under the direction of Dr. Andria Mullan 
Principal Littlefield, at his last graduation ceremony prior to retirement, kicks off the commencement ceremony 
Valedictorian Aaron Drumm 
Salutatorian Jacob Hsia 
Salutatorian Wesley Jeng 
Senior Class President Charlotte Levy presents the class gift 
Student speaker Alyssa Wong 
PHS English Teacher Dr. Marks presents a diploma to her son, Noah Marks-Peterson 
Quincy Munyan is photographed with Principal Littlefield 
PHS grad Molly McWeeny with her mom and aunt, both PHS grads too 
Counselor Chris Hartford and his wife with their son Justice Hartford and Jojo Murphy 
Micah Mueller-Harley greets Zoe Saldanha 
Students toss their graduation caps at the end of the ceremony 
Students move their tassles to signify graduation