As this year's graduation fast approaches, the Icon looks to past valedictorians of Bluffton High School to inspire this year's graduates as they set sail on adventures unknown.

The Icon caught up with Kurt Groman, BHS valedictorian of the class of 2006.

What activities were you involved in as a BHS student? Feel free to include all your extra-curricular activities, even if they're from church or other organizations, not just school. 

I was involved in many activities during my high school years. I participated on the track and field, football, basketball, cross country, and summer baseball teams. Academically, I was on the math team, Latin club, post-secondary program, and was a tutor. I was also on the student senate, in Renaissance club, and was class president for a couple years. I was in the drama club, jazz band, marching band, and pep band through the years.

Outside of school, I was involved in Campus Life (Youth for Christ) and volunteered with the JH Campus Life, and attended a boys bible study through a local church. I earned the Eagle Scout honor through the Boy Scouts while in high school.

I had a few part-time jobs over my high school years at Skip’s Nursery, the Bluffton News, and Bluffton University.

What of the above were your favorite(s)? Why was it your favorite?  Are you still doing any part of that activity now?

Of the above activities, I probably enjoyed the sports the most. Perhaps my most favorite thing about high school sports was getting to practice and compete alongside friends and classmates. I enjoyed getting to know people on a different level by spending time with them outside the classroom and in challenging situations.

I am still staying active in sports, competing in local flag football, basketball, and softball leagues.

I also enjoyed developing lasting relationships through Campus Life and bible studies. I am continuing that by leading a community group through my local church.

What was your least favorite class from high school?

I am not sure what my least or most favorite high school class was, but I know the class I am most grateful for was 9th grade English with Mrs. Goode. The level of education she provided was equivalent or superior to my college courses. I can attribute successes in my current career to lessons I learned from her.

What achievement(s), if anything, are you most proud of from your high school career? Did you get the academic award for any classes? Were you part of a winning sports team? Did you just survive gym class or did you thrive there?

I graduated alongside some incredibly talented students, so I am proud to represent them as valedictorian and also to have received the Cappy Clark award. 

Yes, I received the academic award for a number of classes throughout my tenure. I do not recall which exact ones off the top of my head.

Some of the most memorable HS moments were related to sports teams. Our football team won back-to-back conference championships. My 4x400 meter relay team won the state title in the final race of the final meet of my high school career, which was a storybook ending to any kid’s season.

And yes, I enjoyed gym class. I elected to take personal physical fitness my senior year, and the gym teacher would often call me in from lunch to participate in dodgeball with the underclassmen’s gym classes.

Where are you now? Did you go to college, what did you study, what do you do for a living, etc? Married? Kids?

After graduating from BHS, I graduated from Cedarville University with a BS in mechanical engineering. I am currently an engineering/manufacturing manager for Flowserve, a leading pump manufacturer.

I met my wife Amy in college, and we live in St. Charles, Ill. with our son Theo (age 4) and daughter Nora (age 2).

What advice do you have for the BHS graduates of 2019? What would you tell your newly-graduated self, as you left the high school building after graduation day?

I would encourage the BHS grads of 2019 to enjoy this summer with their friends and make many memories. As you gain independence in the next phase of life, take some time to search for, develop, or solidify your thoughts and beliefs in order to make them your own and be prepared to act upon or defend them confidently.

I would challenge my 18-year-old self to thank everyone who played a part in helping me achieve my goals. I would coach my newly-graduated self to not rely on past successes, but to keep striving for new goals and achievements. 

Please note, Groman was one of eleven valedictorians from the class of 2006.

This is part of a series, starting with an interview of Hannah Chappell-Dick, valedictorian of the class of 2012. To read her interview, click here.

If you were a BHS valedictorian (or equivalent), the Icon would love to interview you. Please contact [email protected].