UMEI Christian High School held its graduation ceremony on Saturday, June 21, celebrating the accomplishments of the Class of 2025.

Among the eleven graduates were four students from Kingsville, underscoring UMEI’s continued role in shaping youth from across Essex County.

The ceremony was a meaningful reflection on growth, friendship, and looking ahead with purpose.

Shannon Douglas, this year’s valedictorian, encouraged her classmates to embrace uncertainty not with fear, but with confidence.

“We don’t need to have everything figured out,” she said.

“Our strength comes not from having every answer, but from being willing to take the next step.”

Shannon is attending Western University for Biology in the fall.

Student speaker Tayler Wiens brought warmth and humour to the evening, reflecting on how the class evolved from “a weird, unpredictable, and occasionally loud group” into a close-knit community where everyone belonged.

“In a school this small,” she said, “you can’t fake friendships—and you can’t disappear into the crowd. And honestly? That’s the best part.”

Next up, Tayler is attending University of Windsor for Psychology.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Governor General’s Academic Medal to Kingsville’s Christina Janzen, who earned an impressive 95.27% average. She is continuing studies at Western University for Chemical Engineering.

The senior female athlete of the year, Kingsville’s Sharon Latam, was celebrated earlier in June at the Athletic Banquet.

Sharon is attending St. Clair College for Border Services in fall.

Nearly $20,000 in scholarships and awards were presented to students across Grades 9-12, thanks to the generosity of UMEI’s supporters and alumni.

As graduates tossed their caps and embraced family and friends, one thing was clear: this small school community sends young people into the world not only prepared for post-secondary education and meaningful careers, but deeply connected to who they are and what they value.