Oh so close, but yet so far! 1st runner-up, 2nd place, “almost there” BUT “not quite”.

Whichever way you

choose to deem my position this afternoon, the truth of the matter is that there is a little window of

disappointment. However, when one looks through said window, a far off in the distance, one can recognize the

silver lining in the cloud.

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Ladies and gentlemen, Good afternoon.

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My name is Trevon Fletcher. This year’s Salutatorian of the graduating class of 2017.

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My comfort, my silver lining, lies in that fact that at least, I have the privilege of joining the ranks of other

salutatorians such as John Legend and Michelle Obama. But let’s backtrack a bit. It wasn't until June 2017, that

I had a full understanding of what that term “ Salutatorian” fully meant. It means, I am the second-highest

ranked student from my graduating class and runner-up to the Valedictorian. Yes ladies and gentlemen, you

may applaud. However, clearly, it isn't all about me. So here’s where my real consolation prize comes into play.

Essentially, I have the distinguished privilege, the honorable task, of introducing my close friend and colleague;

this year’s Valedictorian.

***

Though politics may seem to be his only forte, he is also an excellent artist and a debater who will not back

down from an intellectual challenge. This lover of World History and Classical Music is a dynamic innovator,

who supports any altruistic endeavor. He is an avid supporter of any movement that promotes positive change.

All together ladies and gentlemen, an all rounded individual with leadership qualities.
This young man is a humanities student and is infamous here for his verbosity and eloquence he uses for his

persuasive character.

***

Quite frankly, it gives me an immense sense of pride, to know, that in the near future, I will be telling people

that I introduced the Prime Minister of Jamaica at our Valedictory exercise, back in 2017.\

***

Ladies and gentlemen, relax in your seats to enjoy the words of an intelligent and ambitious young man. I

present to you our Valedictorian, student advisor to the student council, senior sub-prefect, President of the Art

Club, a member of the Burger King-sponsored National Secondary Schools' Debating Champions, Top

Achiever for his year group several times, a finalist in several art competitions, David Rhoden Salmon.