Panther Valley graduate Amy DePuy’s success is clear from her resume. She is a celebrated obstetrician/gynecologist and Inpatient Chief Health Information Officer for Lehigh Valley Health Network.

But her personal definition of success, she told the Class of 2022, is based on what a person does for others, and how they overcome adversity.

“You will have many successes and failures. Learn from those failures and have the courage to fight for what you want,” she said.

DePuy served as honored guest speaker at the Class of 2022’s graduation ceremony Tuesday night. The 84 members of the class received their diplomas in the packed auditorium at Panther Valley Junior Senior High School.

In her speech, DePuy offered “pearls” of wisdom - persistence, encouragement, asking for/accepting help, remembering where you came from, a life of gratitude, and success defined not by a title or a salary.

In his speech, valedictorian Matthew Prudente looked toward the many changes that the class will now face as graduates. But he pointed out that they will be prepared because they embraced change throughout their years in the district. It turned them from kindergartners to young adults, and helped them adjust to a historic pandemic.

“Change doesn’t necessarily have to be a bad thing; in fact, it’s just a part of growing up,” Prudente said in his valedictory address.

Salutatorian Hannah Kane referred to the event as one of the biggest milestones in the students’ lives. It marks the point where they each go on their own path. Kane reminded the class that each of them are prepared for what comes next, because of the hard work and determination they have shown throughout their time in school.

“This is a big moment for all of us, and there is no doubt that each graduate will find a way to succeed in their life,” she said.

Each student received a letter from a Panther Valley graduate. Principal Patricia Ebbert unveiled the surprise during her speech, welcoming the students into the club of Panther Valley alumni.

“We are proud to include you as one of us, and you will ever be part of an elite group,” she said.

She also gave them each a pen emblazoned with the words “my signature.”

Ebbert said that the words were to remind them how they each left their own mark on Panther Valley, and how they should continue to do so as they head out into the world.

She said when they have accomplished their goals, they can write a note to their old teachers with their pens.

DePuy encouraged the graduates to value their roots in Panther Valley. She reflected on how the support and encouragement she received propelled her toward her goals - just like the “black hole” student section pushes athletes toward success on the court and the field.

She told the graduates that there will be people who challenge their beliefs, but they will be fine as long as they remember where they came from.

“Have the courage to stand up for what you believe in, and remember who you are,” she said.