A Night of Gratitude and Legacy
Kimberly Adelson (left) and Sarah Blackham
By Carly Smith, Westminster Stake Media Specialist
Gratitude is a gift that can be easy to overlook, yet it is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to bring joy into the lives of those around us.
On Sunday, March 1, high school seniors who are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Westminster and Broomfield gathered to honor teachers, coaches or mentors who have made a lasting impact on their lives. The evening was a beautiful reminder of the profound difference educators make in shaping the rising generation.
Our evening was officially underway after welcoming teachers, principals, high school seniors and special guests. We were grateful to have State Representative Lori Goldstein, Adams 12 Superintendent Chris Gdowski and Adams 12 Board Member Ike Anyanwu-Ebo join us for the celebration.
Before our keynote address, Janela Karlson, a Spanish teacher at Prospect Ridge Academy and volunteer Communications Director for the Westminster Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shared a few inspiring thoughts. She recounted the remarkable story of Betty Robinson, who became the first woman to win an Olympic gold medal in the 100 meters at just 16 years old during the 1928 Summer Olympics. Robinson’s talent was first noticed by her science teacher, who saw her running to catch a train and recognized her extraordinary potential.
Karlson used this story to highlight a powerful truth: teachers help students discover their strengths and ignite their passions. They see potential that students may not yet recognize in themselves and play an integral role in shaping the course of their lives. With hearts turned toward gratitude and legacy, we then welcomed our keynote speaker, Superintendent Gdowski.
Gdowski spoke about the importance of appreciation, noting that one of the things that can truly “fill a teacher’s bucket” is a sincere word of gratitude from a student who says, “Thanks for making a difference.” Addressing the honored guests, Gdowski shared, “You’ve made a huge difference in the lives of the young people here, and there’s nothing better to look back on as a legacy than knowing that you’ve lifted somebody in a really special way. You’ve made a difference in their lives.”
He concluded by offering the graduating seniors three pieces of advice to help them build thrilling, happy and purposeful lives: First, be a hard worker. Second, be unrelentingly optimistic. And third, strive to make a contribution well beyond yourself.
The evening culminated as seniors presented heartfelt tribute speeches to their honored guests. Noah Russell recognized his basketball coach, Scott Iten, saying, “One of the most important lessons he’s taught me is how to handle both success and failure. He’s shown me how to deal with losses—how to take responsibility, learn from mistakes, and come back better next time.”
Each tribute was unique and deeply moving. Sarah Blackham expressed her love and gratitude for her special education teacher, Kimberly Adelson, sharing these touching words, “I would like to express my deepest gratitude for your kindness, support and understanding. Thank you for seeing me as an individual. Thank you for the kindness and compassion you have shown to me and my family. Your care, support, guidance and selflessness transformed me from a scared freshman caterpillar into a resilient
senior butterfly, ready to venture into the world with the skills and resources you helped me develop. Thank you.”
The evening was a wonderful celebration of mentorship, legacy and the lasting influence of dedicated educators. As students prepare to step into their futures, they are strengthened by the lessons, encouragement and belief of the teachers who helped shape them.
#UpliftColorado
