By Brandi Grant-Rigsby

2026 graduates of Ada High School were celebrated at the annual Baccalaureate service on Tuesday, May 19 in the English Chapel at Ohio Northern University. This tradition began in 2002, under the leadership of Rev. Wayne Albertson, who wanted to honor graduates in a way that recognizes God’s guidance in their lives and allows their families and the community to offer personal blessings over each graduate. The Ada Ministerial Association has continued the tradition in partnership with the parents of graduating seniors.

This year, the service was planned by parents and Dave Lusk, retired Ada High School science teacher. Parents of the Junior class provided refreshments following the event.

With over 120 people in attendance, the evening was filled with memories and words of wisdom from many Ada teachers, as well as music sung by Scott Henning, choir teacher, and Justin Bowden, AHS senior. 

Some seniors shared readings that hold special meaning for them, area clergy offered prayers and blessings for the graduates, and the parents of the senior class presented each student with a gift from the Wilson Football Factory as a reminder that they will always carry a piece of home with them. 

Matt Gossman, Ada Board of Education member and father of graduate Slade Gossman, spoke on the topic “For Every Direction, For Every Generation.” Gossman called on the graduates to consider their priorities as they begin their journey into adulthood. His words reminded those present that their priorities will direct how they move and live in the world and that keeping their priorities in the right order will help keep their eyes and heart on what’s most important in this life.

Gossman concluded with the blessing “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26.

The evening was an opportunity for the members of the Ada community to come together to celebrate and honor the Ada High School class of 2026 and to send them into their next chapter with God’s love and blessing.