As the rustling plane trees and early cicada songs herald the arrival of summer, the Class of 2025 at Dehong Shanghai celebrates a defining milestone—their high school graduation. Graduation marks not just an end, but a new beginning. It’s a time for our students to treasure the memories of their youth and step forward into the future with the blessings of their mentors and friends. Since joining Dehong, they have nurtured critical thinking, developed holistically, and cultivated a global perspective. With determination, the guidance of our university and career counseling team, and the support of the Dehong and DCI network, they have written a successful final chapter to their high school journey and are ready to take on the world.
The Graduation Ceremony of Dehong Shanghai Class of 2025 recently came to a brilliant close. Let us look back at the warm, proud, and emotional highlights of the day—a heartfelt celebration of growth, gratitude, and new beginnings.
Before the ceremony began, IB graduates from Grade 12 gathered with family, teachers, and friends at the signature wall, capturing beaming smiles in photos. Each student wrote their dreams and hopes on a paper airplane and launched them together, symbolizing gratitude for the past and aspirations for the future.
The ceremony opened with piano and flute performances by Dehong teachers and students. Ms. Caroline Xu (Executive Principal), Mr. Ryan Miles (Head of Secondary School), and Ms. Cynthia Chen (High School Academic Coordinator)each took the stage to deliver heartfelt messages to the graduates.
Executive Principal Caroline Xu: "Studying abroad may bring pressure and challenges, but remember: hardship is never the end, it is the starting point of renewed understanding. What awaits you is not just a journey across borders, but a voyage of the mind. As Dehong students, I hope you will think critically like TOK thinkers—decode bias, connect cultures, and shine in the dialogue between civilizations. As you set sail today, may you truly become part of China’s new generation that contributes to global progress."
Head of Secondary School Ryan Miles: "If we look at your university offers and how well you have done as a year group, I couldn’t be more proud of all of you. If I reflect on where you started and where you have ended it is an absolute testament to the notion of community, hard work and never giving up. As you prepare to leave Dehong, carry with you conviction, humility, respect, and empathy."
High School Academic Coordinator Cynthia Chen: "Take with you more than just grades and diplomas. Take the values IB instilled: the TOK mindset that questions surface-level truths; the EE journey that teaches patience and deep thinking; and the CAS experience that reminds you empathy, responsibility, and initiative are the warmest connections to the world. Today’s celebration is not just about academic success, but a tribute to your growth as thinkers, doers, and global citizens."
Graduates Charlie and Derick took the stage as student representatives to share their gratitude and hopes.
G12 Student Representatives Charlie & Derick: "Today is not just about graduating, but celebrating every effort we've made. We’re deeply grateful to our teachers for guiding us through every step, and to our parents for their unconditional support. If youth is a journey, growth is its constant theme. May we carry Dehong’s courage and wisdom into the future and become individuals who bring warmth and strength to others and the world."
Parents have always been the strongest pillars for students. Bella’s mother, speaking on behalf of all families, shared heartfelt wishes and reminded students to use their IB skills to face what lies ahead.
G12 Parent Representative Bella’s Mom: "In just a few months, you will step into the world—embracing diverse cultures, meeting people from different backgrounds, and confronting varied perspectives. In the age of AI, it’s those with creativity, critical thinking, and drive who will thrive. May our children rise to the challenge and sail bravely into the future."
To express their gratitude, the G12 cohort gifted two benches to the school, symbolizing the unity of home and school in nurturing talent. Parents alsopresented personalized bouquets to their children, filled with blessings for a bright and blossoming future.
One by one, graduates took the stage. Mr. Ryan Miles presented each with a diploma, and Ms. Caroline Xu conducted the tassel-turning ceremony—a symbolic and emotional moment marking the completion of their high school journey and the beginning of a new chapter.
As the graduation cake was brought out, students, teachers, and families gathered for a final group photo—capturing the joy of this unforgettable milestone. Laughter and sweet moments wereshared over slices of cake, each bite symbolizing good wishes and dreams for the road ahead.
In this moment of farewell, students also shared reflections and hopes for the future:
Alston: "University is a new journey—I’ll be living independently for the first time and facing many challenges. To my future self: “Don’t give up.” Though hospitality management can be tough, the passion you have will make it all worthwhile."
Bella: "IB exams are over, and it’s finally time to relax. I hope university will bring new friends and a strong support network. More importantly, I want to find balance in my life—to be more disciplined and grow into a better version of myself."
Mary: "I feel both happy and nostalgic—happy to complete this journey, but sad to leave Dehong. I’m excited about discovering new things in college but also nervous about adjusting to a new environment. I hope I adapt quickly and grow stronger."
Michael: "I’m excited for the next stage. I know studying overseas will bring unexpected surprises and challenges. I hope to carry the determination I’ve had over the past 12 years into university and keep pushing forward with persistence and passion."
In this unforgettable celebration filled with color and emotion, we witnessed the transformation and radiance of youth. Though the music has faded, the journey continues. Dehong Shanghai is proud of every graduate and looks forward to seeing them chase the stars and explore the world. May each of you continue to “Aspire to be” with open hearts, resilient minds, and boundless courage—ready to chart your own brilliant course across the vast seas ahead.
