Hoggard graduate disrupts ceremony over valedictorian’s speech

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) - A Hoggard High School graduate disrupted her graduation ceremony Saturday after taking issue with a quote used in the valedictorian’s address.

Sara Rudeseal said she does not typically seek attention.

“I’ve always kind of stayed in my own little corner,” she said.

But that changed at Hoggard High School’s graduation ceremony on June 6 after valedictorian Kyler Hosek took the podium for his address.

“As my biggest inspiration once said, ‘every human being has something of value that they bring to the table,” Hosek said in his speech.

Rudeseal believes that line is part of a quote from the rapper Ye, formerly known as Kanye West. She said Hosek left out the end of the rap star’s full quote.

“The end of the quote is just ‘especially Hitler,’” Rudeseal said. “The fact that he said the entire quote and just omitted the last two words, which were praising a crazy totalitarian, was really wrong.”

When it was Rudeseal’s turn to walk across the stage to receive her diploma, she instead stepped up and stole the microphone.

“Valedictorian Kyler Hosek quoted a 2022 interview with Kanye West from Infowars, what Kyler forgot to do is finish the...” Rudeseal said before workers cut the sound.

She walked across the stage without receiving her diploma.

WECT obtained a copy of the valedictorian’s speech, which can be viewed below:

School administrators have a vetting process for addresses like this. Superintendent Dr. Christopher Barnes sent WECT a statement saying:

“I want to address concerns that have been raised regarding a portion of a recent graduation speech. First, I want to thank the students, families, staff members, and community members who have shared their perspectives with us. Graduation is one of the most meaningful milestones in a young person’s life, and our ceremonies are intended to celebrate our students’ accomplishments. I regret the concern and distraction this situation has caused.

First and foremost, New Hanover County Schools unequivocally rejects and condemns any messages of hate, discrimination, antisemitism, or other harmful ideologies associated with any individual or public figure. We remain committed to ensuring that every student, family, and staff member feels welcome and respected.

As part of our established process, the speech underwent the district’s standard review procedures, including a review of the speech in its entirety. While the district did not identify any connection during the review process, we understand that some members of our community perceived the language differently. Listening to those perspectives is important, and we are carefully reviewing our graduation speech protocols and practices to determine how additional guidance and safeguards can improve the process moving forward.

Our goal is to ensure that graduation ceremonies remain focused on celebrating students, honoring their accomplishments, and bringing our community together. We are committed to learning from this experience and continually improving the processes that support our students and families.

As a matter of policy and federal privacy law, the district does not discuss disciplinary matters or information related to a specific student’s educational record.

We appreciate the continued partnership, trust, and support of our families and community as we work to provide a welcoming and respectful environment for all."

Rudeseal said she is finishing her message.

“The quote was praising Hitler and that the school board needs to be better about vetting their speeches,” she said.

The new graduate hopes her actions spark change so future milestone moments don’t end the same way.

Rudeseal received her high school diploma in June.

Hosek sent WECT a statement:

“My speech was about hope and optimism. As my classmates and I start a new chapter in our lives, I wanted to encourage them to remember that every person has value and that we all have the ability to make a positive difference in the lives of others. I’m distressed that a quote used in my speech distracted from the message I intended to share.

I want to be clear that I reject antisemitism and hatred in all forms. Those beliefs do not reflect my values. I ask that people consider my remarks in their entirety and extend the same grace and understanding to me that I would want to show to others.”