Jesse’s Graduation from Manheim Central High School

May 30, 2026

Friday Evening, May 29 at LCBC Church, Manheim, PA

Waiting for Commencement to begin. L to R: Jere, Josh, Ian, Jared, Kristen, Austin, and Jenna. Cerwin and I were next to Jana.

Testing my camera lighting for the stage and screens.

Loved seeing Jesse’s graduation photo on the big screen

We looked for Jesse’s red and blue Marine sash when watching the split screen for him to enter the large auditorium (seats 2,500).

I am still not quite ready for our youngest grandchild to enter the “big world” of the military. but excited for him to go after his dream of working on and flying helicopters.

Somewhere under those mortar boards is Jesse

Musical Selection – “The Theory of Everything.”

Some of the school board and current and past faculty on our side of the stage. There was another group like this on the other side.

A few notes from Keynote Speaker, The Honorable Christopher A. Hackman, 1983 Manheim Central Graduate. (Third from right in this photo.)

He was having a bad day when about 25 years old and ready to quit. When a mentor noticed his mood, and asked, “Have you figured it out yet? It doesn’t get any easier.”

One of the secrets to happiness is to face your challenges head on. Running away from challenges bring more challenges and unhappiness. My biggest regret from the early part of my career is that I often ignored the present. Be present and learn to face challenges. Challenges will come even when you love what you are doing.

Jesse along the wall (in the shadows) waiting behind another graduate and ready to go up the steps to the stage.

Jesse Reid High – Cum Laude

Receiving his diploma and congratulations from a faculty member.

Following the Affirmation of Graduates

Time for pictures with siblings and Austin (Jana’s husband). Jere and Kristen could not get enough tickets for the three girls: Kelli, Yeira, and Nicole to attend. 🙁