BROOMFIELD, Colo. — Broomfield High School seniors celebrated their graduation Monday night. Their commencement speaker, a fellow graduate, moved the crowd to tears.
Jillian Ball made school history as the first person with Down syndrome to receive this honor, and captivated everyone with her heartfelt and emotional delivery.
In April, when Broomfield High School held tryouts for the commencement speech, Jillian didn't hesitate to audition.
"I like to show the people how great I am," she said.
While her confidence now is undeniable, her parents, Alexis and David Ball, recalled the uncertainty they felt when Jillian was born and diagnosed with Down syndrome.
"There was a lot of fear because we just didn't know what her journey was going to be like," Alexis said. "If we knew then what we know now, we would not have been as scared. Because she has just proven to us that, actually, her journey is not that different than everyone else's."
Jillian's busy schedule outside of school is impressive. She plays the violin in the school's orchestra, participates in theater with roles in three musicals this year, and is active in basketball and bowling through Unified Sports.
Jillian Ball's schedule outside of school is impressive
Additionally, she is a dedicated Girl Scout.
"I sold Girl Scout Cookies, and the goal was like 1,500, but I went above that and sold 1,693," Jillian said.
Despite her packed schedule, Jillian maintains a vibrant social life. This summer, she is booked with graduation parties.
"It is unique to watch, not just Jillian as she grows up, but the people around her," her father David said, fighting back tears. "She has great support from her peers and has been embraced by our community. She's done amazing things."
Jillian’s speech focused on gratitude, which she referred to as her "thank you for's."
She said practiced it about 50 times to ensure she would be clear and composed. Before the ceremony, she admitted she might get emotional when thanking her friends and family.
"But, I don’t wanna like, smear my mascara," she said.
When the moment arrived, Jillian ran to the stage and took a minute to gather herself.
"I just need a minute to calm down," she said, her realness earning applause from the audience. She began, "Hello class of 2024! We did it!" which was met with another round of cheers and applause.
> Watch Jillian's full speech:
Jillian expressed her gratitude to her classmates for accepting her and including her in activities, and to her teachers for challenging her. As she suspected, when she reached the part of her speech where she thanked her friends and family, she became emotional. Looking at her family in the second row, she saw Alexis and David giving her thumbs up, cheering her on.
Taking a deep breath, she said, "OK, restart," which made the crowd chuckle.
"To my family and friends, I am thankful for your love and support," she continued.
Jillian concluded her speech with a heartfelt message: "Congratulations class of 2024! Remember your 'thank you for's' and keep being awesome!"
The audience gave her a standing ovation, with many in tears. Alexis and David stood with the crowd, beaming with pride.
After the ceremony, Jillian rushed to her family, her mom embracing her with tears streaming down her face.
"My favorite part was when she said, 'I just need a minute to calm myself down.' I definitely knew that it would be real. Jillian keeps it real all the time," Alexis said.
Friends and well-wishers lined up to hug Jillian and congratulate her.
"It felt kinda awesome," she said with a smile.
Looking ahead, Jillian will enter a transition program where she will explore various jobs and learn life skills, preparing her for the next chapter of her journey.
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