Family, friends and faculty gathered at Redskin Stadium to watch all 130 members of Class of 2025 graduate this past Friday, May 16th.
Principal Russ Winter addressed the graduates by reflecting on the past memories they have had at Redskin Stadium on Friday nights and now they can add one more memory: their high school graduation.
"For years, this field has been a place where you cheered, competed and celebrated together," Winter said. "Tonight becomes something even more meaningful."
The introduction of the salutatorian, Kaleigh Temple, was done by Mr. Blake NeSmith, one of the teachers at Bryan County High. NeSmith had high praise for her level of intelligence and also stated she was an individual filled with determination and spirit.
"Kaleigh is obviously incredibly smart, but what sets her apart is her tenacity and self-confidence," NeSmith said. "She doesn't back down from a challenge or a debate."
Temple then spoke about being named the salutatorian as a very deeply humbling and honorable achievement next to the co-valedictorians. She gave many thanks to her family, friends and teachers who have given her the level of necessary support throughout the years, but she gave glory to God the most.
"There were times where the pressure felt overwhelming, but it was in those moments that I turned to prayer," Temple said. "God provided me with peace, clarity and endurance."
The introduction of the first valedictorian, Ella Bishop, was by BCHS teacher, Mrs. Laura Blair. Blair spoke about Bishop as a young lady that is synonymous with excellence, determination and heart both in the classroom and on the tennis court.
"My first introduction with Ella came on the tennis court," Blair said. "My first impressions of her that was she was quiet and timid, but she certainly proved me wrong."
Bishop spoke to her fellow graduates and congratulated them for reaching this milestone. She then recognized her family, friends and teachers for helping to shape her into the person she is today. Bishop also stated that despite her shyness, she learned to overcome it with their love and faith in her.
"I'm not just standing in the spotlight, I'm speaking from it," Bishop said. "You all helped me find my voice and I will carry that confidence into this new beginning."
Cindy Bennett, the BCHS Counselor, then introduced, the other co-valedictorian, Caycelyn Davis. Bennett described Davis as someone who leads with resilience, compassion and unwavering commitment.
"I've had the privilege of working closely with Caycelyn through athletics and service initiatives in the Beta Club," Bennett said. "In these roles, I've watched her grow into a leader of exceptional intellect, determination and integrity."
Caycelyn Davis spoke next as the other co-valedictorian and thanked her entire support system which consisted of people such as Cindy Bennett, but her biggest role models were her parents who she said were her biggest inspirations in how to live her life.
"You both have been the best role models,by biggest supporters and my constant foundation," Davis said.
Reese Raeburn, the Senior Class Secretary, welcomed family and friends to the ceremony. Diesel Chavez-Landaverde, the Senior Class Vice President, recognized the special guests.
Xi'Yon James, the Senior Class Social Chair, introduced the alma mater.
Assistant Principal Blaine Ennis and BCHS teacher Ashley Campbell presented the graduates. Assistant principal Cliff Kicklighter and Board Chairman Amy Murphy conferred the diplomas.
Honor Graduates:
Ella Bishop
Caycelyn Davis
Kaleigh Temple
Grace Allen
Robert Asselin
Diesel Chavez-Landaverde
Jada Conley
Shaw Coursey
Willow Galligher
William Hester
Kayla Kilmer
Alysa Lovett
Callie Neuroth
Reese Raeburn
Jacqueline Torres
Logan Sehr
Emma Strickland
Alyssa Thighpen
Charles Williams
Hayden Williams
