DAIS & Huamei Graduation: Honoring the Class of 2025

On June 8, the Class of 2025 from Dalian American International School and Dalian Huamei School proudly crossed the stage in their caps and gowns to receive their high school diplomas. It was a big moment for them - a celebration of how far they’ve come and the start of some exciting new adventures.

During the graduation ceremony, students celebrated their achievements, bid farewell to the school community, and were inspired by heartfelt speeches from teachers, classmates, and Head of School Dr. Richard Swann. The event was beautifully interwoven with musical performances by the school orchestra and choir, directed by Ms. Ashley Mims, Ms. Terry Saez, and Class of 2021 alumnus Peter Zhang.

Dr. Richard Swann, The Head of School: “While it is true that we build upon the work of others, it is equally true that you are a generation that has the potential to make your own unique gifts to the world around you.”

Mr. Brandon Iwanyshyn, Science Department Head: “Whether you were writing code, participating in a play, tutoring a classmate, or finding your own path in quieter spaces—you’ve learned to persist through failure, to collaborate, to grow in confidence.”

Mr. Michael Kuropatwinski, AP Microeconomics & AP Macroeconomics Teacher, Student Government Advisor: “Life is one continuous negotiation. We are continually tested. Every moment has something to teach us. Be vigilant. Be awake.” 

During the ceremony, the school announced the winners of the most prestigious senior awards. This year's Sea Dragon Award was given to Monica Ma in DAIS and Amanda Jiang in Huamei. Zuri Qu (DAIS) and Susan Li (DHS) have been named Valedictorians. Zuri and Susan were given the honor to say a few words on the stage.

Zuri Qu, DAIS Class of 2025: “We’ve been perfectly fine up until today, and I am confident that we will be perfectly fine out there in the cruel adult world as well. Because deep down, we all know that we have the best people supporting us behind our backs, the best people running along on our side, and the best people waiting for you in the bright future ahead.”

Susan Li, DHS Class of 2025: “Treat your life as an adventure, not a race. Move at your own pace, focus on your own goals, and take the time to look at the beautiful scenery around you — because in doing so, you’ll find beauty in places you probably never expected.”

Mr. David Hopkinson, Dr. Xiaoming Liu and Mr. Jordan Reed delivered their charge to the graduates at the end of the ceremonies.

Mr. David Hopkinson, Assistant Director of Athletics: “Class of 2025, you might find yourself battling an opponent who leaves it all out on the field to reach the same goal as you, giving 100% to defeat you. But you will give 110%, like Messi vs. Mbappé in the 2022 World Cup final.” 

Mr. Jordan Reed, English Language Arts Department Head: “Whether you’re a quiet builder, a bold campaigner, a deep thinker, or a gentle soul—don’t let all that noise out there drown out that voice that is uniquely your own. Know yourself. Trust yourself. And remember—you choose your path.”

Dr. Xiaoming Liu, AP Calculus BC, AP Statistics, AP Physics C: E&M Teacher: “Chase knowledge. Chase excellence. Not for the GPA, but for the thrill of understanding something new. That spark—that enthusiasm—isn’t just a sign of intelligence. It’s a sign of life. And it’s one of the most meaningful things you can carry with you.”

To each of our Class of 2025 graduates - thank you for being a part of our journey at DAIS/DHS. Your presence has added color, energy, and meaning to our community. You've touched our lives in countless ways, and we are better for having shared this time with you. Now, it's time to rise from the dragon's nest and dive into the vast unknown. Go Sea Dragons! We'll watch with pride and anticipation as you chart new currents and shape the world for the better.