Four seniors graduated from Voznesenka School in a small but heartfelt commencement ceremony on Monday, May 19 at Land’s End Resort.
In his welcoming remarks, Michael Wojciak, principal for both Voznesenka and Kachemak-Selo schools, invited both the graduates and their gathered friends and family to celebrate the culmination of the seniors’ years of hard work, growth and discovery.
Wojciak quoted former President Ronald Reagan: “There are not easy answers, but there are simple answers. We must have the courage to do what we know is morally right.” He asked the graduates to “think about the weight of those words” and be reminded that even in difficult or complex situations, there is hope in there being simple answers.
“These simple answers … lie in the fundamental principles of decency, integrity and ethical conduct,” he said. “We as educators and families have worked hard to equip you with the knowledge and skills, but equally important is the development of your character, your moral compass.
“Congratulations, class of 2025 — go forth and make your mark on the world, guided by integrity and driven by courage. We are immensely proud of you.”
Monday’s commencement speaker was teacher Michael Houghton, who also gifted each graduate with an item meant to represent their talents showcased during their school years or to help them as they transition into the next step of their lives.
“If you can find what you like to do, follow it,” he said. “That’s what is really going to bring you joy in life.”
Irimey Reutov, one of the graduating students, also gave a speech during the ceremony.
“School isn’t just a place where we learn subjects we’re going to forget in a few months. The most important lessons come early,” he said. “What really matters are the bonds we build, the friendships we make, the life lessons we learn and the discipline we grow.”
Wojciak also presented student Fiofan Chernishoff with a UA Scholar Award, which recognizes students’ academic performance in high school and comes with a scholarship that can be used toward the cost of attendance at any location within the University of Alaska system.
Congratulating the graduates one last time, Wojciak said, “Best of luck to each of you in your future endeavors, and never forget the importance of being a lifelong learner.”
Voznesenka School Class of 2025
Fiofan Chernishoff
Susana Martushev
Irimey Reutov
Voznesenka School teacher Michael Houghton speaks to the graduating class during the commencement ceremony held Monday, May 19, 2025, at Land’s End Resort in Homer, Alaska. (Delcenia Cosman/Homer News)
Fiofan Chernishoff (center) shakes Voznesenka School principal Michael Wojciak’s hand as he is presented with his diploma during the commencement ceremony held Monday, May 19, 2025, at Land’s End Resort in Homer, Alaska. (Delcenia Cosman/Homer News)
Kiprian Reutov holds up his diploma during the Voznesenka School commencement ceremony held Monday, May 19, 2025, at Land’s End Resort in Homer, Alaska. (Delcenia Cosman/Homer News)
Susana Martushev holds up her diploma during the Voznesenka School commencement ceremony held Monday, May 19, 2025, at Land’s End Resort in Homer, Alaska. (Delcenia Cosman/Homer News)
Irimey Reutov presents his graduation speech during the Voznesenka School commencement ceremony held Monday, May 19, 2025, at Land’s End Resort in Homer, Alaska. (Delcenia Cosman/Homer News)
Michael Wojciak, principal of Voznesenka and Kachemak-Selo schools, speaks to the graduates and their families at the commencement ceremony held Monday, May 19, 2025, at Land’s End Resort in Homer, Alaska. (Delcenia Cosman/Homer News)
