LIVE Lee - Graduation 2023

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TRINITY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL — PAGE 64

CONTRIBUTORS

Noah Griffith

Daniel Locke

Stacey Patton Wallace

DESIGN / LAYOUT

Michelle Key

Kendyl Hollingsworth

MARKETING

Woody Ross

Michelle Key

PHOTOGRAPHY

Jerry Ballas

Kendyl Hollingsworth

Robert Noles

John Pyle

STAFF BIOS

Michelle Key, Publisher

Originally from Albertville, Alabama, Michelle Key and her family moved to the Opelika-Auburn area in 2011 after her husband’s retirement from the U.S. Navy. She is a graduate of Troy University, and she joined the Observer in 2014 as an office administrator before assuming ownership of the newspaper in January 2018.

Hannah Goldfinger, LIVE Lee Editor

Hannah Goldfinger is an Auburn University 2019 journalism graduate who is originally from Birmingham. She started with The Observer in July 2020 and began as the associate editor for LIVE Lee Magazine. She assigns, writes and edits pieces for the magazine, as well as helps to design the pages. She was named editor of LIVE Lee in July 2021.

Wil Crews, The Observer Sports Editor

Wil Crews is an Auburn University 2020 journalism graduate originally from Prattville, Alabama. He works as The Observer’s sports editor and also assists in developing the weekly paper and LIVE Lee Magazine.

Kendyl Hollingsworth, Staff Reporter

Kendyl Hollingsworth is a Huntsville native and 2018 journalism graduate of Auburn University. She interned at The Observer in early 2018 before returning to north Alabama. Following a brief hiatus to serve as a missionary, Kendyl has returned to The Observer and LIVE Lee to help tell the unique stories of Lee County. She took lead on this issue — assigning work, editing and designing it.

Robert Noles, Photographer

Robert Noles is an award-winning photojournalist who has been with The Observer for more than 10 years. Originally from Tallassee, he is a graduate of Alabama Christian College and Auburn University.

Hello seniors!

Or should I say, graduates? Congratulations!

If no one has told you, I know it was difficult. You worked hard. You scraped by. You thrived. Maybe you’re sad it’s over, maybe you’re thrilled to be done.

Whatever your high school experience looked like, you did it! You accomplished this major milestone in your life and you will always be able to look back on this moment.

Step into whatever is next with confidence. Whether it is college, a job, travel, taking care of family or anything else, you are prepared and ready to step into your future.

And Lee County is here for you — to walk with you, cheer you on and always call you home when you need it.

There will be many, many hard moments ahead. There is no need to pretend there won’t be. But there will be beautiful moments ahead, too. And there will be more beautiful moments if you look for them, and find ways to be happy in the everyday.

Take what you learned in high school and apply it to your everyday life (even, yes, those math lessons you say you will never use).

Congratulations, and I hope you look back on this time fondly.

Congratulations to each of our

seniors. We wish you all the best as you move on to whatever may come next and know that you'll continue to represent the Auburn community well!

Lee County Students Reflect on The ASMS Experience

By Noah Griffith

Photos Contributed By ASMS

Apair of Lee County residents are preparing to move on from their experience at Alabama School of Math and Science, a boarding school in Mobile that has propelled their academic careers.

Alex Griffin and Ajay Wallack are each set to graduate in May from the school that was established by the 1989 Alabama State Legislature and are embracing the lessons they have learned in their years in ASMS’s accelerated learning environment and in the change of scenery while being away from home.

“ASMS has been incredible in preparing me for college,” Griffin said. “From an academic level, I’m prepared for college level work as I’ve already been doing college level work and will even be getting 24 college credits for classes I’ve taken at ASMS. From a social level, ASMS has been a wonderful stepping-stone to the independence of moving out for college as I get a taste of being away from home as this is a boarding school.”

Griffin attended ASMS for three years after transferring from Auburn High School. She excelled in the liberal arts, as she was one of two students chosen for the Outstanding Junior in Arts and Humanities award in 2022. After hearing of the

academic challenges that ASMS presents from her parents, who both attended the school, Griffin said she decided she was up for it herself.

While Griffin plans to go on to study psychology at UAB, she said she is appreciative of the well-rounded student ASMS helped her become. She won an award in the arts, but she said her favorite subject was chemistry because she put together everything she had learned into that class “like putting together a fun puzzle.”

It was her parents that told her about ASMS, but it was her drive to better herself that pushed her to attend, Griffin said. That drive started with some key advice from her band director at Auburn.

“Something my band director, Mr. Wine, told me while I was in Auburn was that if my goal was to be a professional flute player, I should first strive to be first chair in the band that I was in,” Griffin recalled. “Then I should go to honor bands and work on being first chair in those. In every room and band I have gotten into, I continue to work on bettering myself one chair up at a time. Although I’m no longer looking to be a professional flute player, I take that advice with me wherever I go, helping me succeed wherever I go.”

Ajay Wallack

Alex Griffin

Wallack, on the other hand, attended ASMS for two years and excelled in technology and math, as he was one of six students to win the Most Promising in Computing award, as well as one of three to win Outstanding Junior in Mathematics in 2022.

His biggest takeaways from his learning at ASMS is the quality teaching he received, as well as the extracurricular events he got to participate in, he said.

“ASMS students placed first at the Argonne Cyber Guardians Competition on the University of Central Florida’s campus,” Wallack said. “Despite happening in the summer, it was great. Our school was one of the few invited to participate, and I was able to interact with several of my friends and teachers while also competing to protect a server.”

Wallack hasn’t committed to plans at the next level yet, but he has narrowed down his options to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute or The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He said he is certain of one thing, though — the school’s staff has prepared him for whatever comes next.

“ASMS has given me the opportunity to meet many great teachers as well as staff to help me prepare for college,” Wallack said. “My favorite subject has been economics due to the great teacher of this class at ASMS.”

Both Wallack and Griffin said they feel like they are prepared going forward as a result of studying at ASMS.

“I love the opportunities I’ve had at ASMS to push myself and grow as a person, especially academically,” Griffin said.

By Hannah Goldfinger Photos Contributed To LIVE Lee

The Auburn Speech and Debate Club is growing, full of students pursuing their passions.

One student, Blaire Gray, a senior at Auburn High School, has stepped into a new opportunity — participating in her first speech competition.

She prepared her 10-minute speech in two weeks, memorized it in another two weeks and in her words, “shipped off to districts.”

“Somehow I made it to Nationals and I’m not really sure how; I’ve never really done this before,” Gray said.

But Gray’s success isn’t a surprise to her teacher, Donna Yeager.

“I am so very proud of Blaire,” she said. “She has been a successful debater for three years, but she really wanted to write

Making Statement

and compete in Original Oratory this year. She is passionate about her message; therefore, her speech is powerful and inspiring. I firmly believe she could win the whole thing at Nationals.”

Gray prepared a speech that focused on her own experiences with body weight, expressing herself, representation in media and where society puts its value.

“There are three ways to be fat in society: A. The Comedic Relief, B. The Lazy Slob and C. The Villain,” Gray said.

Before stepping into the speech and debate world, Gray said that she participated for six years in competitive theater.

She was in Debate 1, in her junior year, as well. This is the first year, however, she has participated in speech.

“It was different than how I typically prepare for theater

Making a Statement

things, which I wasn’t expecting,” she said.

Gray’s topic was one that is close to her and her family — one she relates to, she said.

“How I started writing — it was just a rant,” she said. “I just ranted about how I don’t like how fat-phobic everything is and how it’s rooted in education and exposure to students and stuff. And once I just ranted about it, I went in and edited it, and put some research in it and made more points and ended up with a speech that I really liked.”

Gray said that while she knows this is a topic that most people are uncomfortable with, not talking about it is more hurtful.

Gray will participate in Nationals, with her teacher at her side, June 11 through 16 in Arizona.

“I’m very afraid,” she admitted. “This is a new sphere for me. … I’m nervous, but I’m really excited to see how I measure up to the really experienced people who have been doing this a while.”

Yeager, a social studies teacher at Auburn High School, has

bachelor’s degrees in social studies education and speech and debate communication.

“This is my 35th year teaching and I still love it,” she said. “I do believe it is a calling, what I am supposed to do. Teaching allows me to be a life-long learner, and my students keep me young.”

Yeager said she believes speech and debate can provide important skills and lessons to all students, no matter their interests.

“I firmly believe every student would benefit from taking a speech or debate,” she said. “Speech and debate activities both inside and outside of the classroom teach students the academic skills they need to excel in school, college and the workforce. I want every student I teach to find the power of their own voice and use it.”

And students like Gray are doing just that. Although Gray will soon graduate and move on, Yeager has big plans to keep speech and debate going — and growing.

·

“My goals for the program in the future are to expose more students to the benefits of speech and debate,” she said. “I hope to continue to have a successful competitive program and be successful in fundraising the necessary funds to support the growing program.”

Dear Class of 2023,

Congratulations! You have successfully completed your graduation requirements and will soon walk across the stage at Duck Samford Stadium to receive an Auburn High School diploma. Your graduation ceremony is special. It is a hallowed event when our community comes together to honor the achievements of your graduating class.

High school started differently for the Class of 2023. Your sophomore year, your introduction to AHS began with the strictness of COVID-19 protocols. You were the 10th graders we welcomed from behind masks, the students we worried might not get to see the dear ole Auburn High your older peers had known and loved before. But like all things in life, this bleak time was temporary; the fog of the pandemic lifted, and slowly but surely, the school environment returned to normal. And by this school year, your senior year, you have seen AHS bend and flex into many different forms, as you have had to do the same. You are the class making lemonade out of lemons, and for that, I will never forget you. It was a pleasure to spend these three years with you. I am thankful the last two were back to business as usual.

I am proud to call you graduates of Auburn High School. Go forth into your future with confidence. You are capable of great things!

Dr. Shannon Pignato Auburn High School Principal

LIVELee

Photos Contributed by AHS

Dear Class of 2023,

On behalf of the entire city of Auburn, I want to congratulate you on the tremendous achievement you’ve made by graduating high school. Here at the city of Auburn, we believe that the education you receive in our community will equip you to make an impact on Auburn and the world. Over the years we’ve made tremendous investments in your education, ensuring you’ve had the resources you’ve needed to go far.

As you embark on a new chapter in your life, be sure to take all the things you’ve learned here with you. From the power of knowledge that your educators have instilled in you, to the character and skills you’ve garnered outside the classroom, carry each lesson with you and continue to build on that solid foundation. Never stop learning, but remember to stop, reflect and cherish where you came from.

Some of you may be heading off to college or beginning a career, and others may be starting this next chapter right here at one of our community’s fine institutions. Either way, we hope that you take with you fond memories of a community that supports you fully and believes you have what it takes to excel.

Aristotle once said “the roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet.” I hope you look back on your pursuits in high school here in Lee County as a sweet success. Congratulations to each and every one of you, and I wish you the best, Class of 2023.

Sincerely,

Ron Anders Jr. City of Auburn Mayor

Launching Lessons Outside the Classroom

By Kendyl Hollingsworth Photos Contributed to LIVE Lee

Students in Rachel Brown’s AP Physics class at Beauregard High School had a pretty unforgettable lesson in the laws of physics last fall.

For the first time since 2019, students voted on a project in September 2022 to build catapults and trebuchets to see how far they could launch a pumpkin. After more than a month of preparation, they spent Halloween morning putting those catapults and trebuchets to the test in a “Pumpkin Chunkin’” contest to see which team could launch a pumpkin the farthest.

“In the past we have built and programmed battle bots, flown drones — but catapults and trebuchets seem to be the most popular,” Brown said.

In what she called a “student-centered project,” the students divided into teams of at least two and began researching their chosen launcher. They developed a list of supplies and began work from there, drawing up blueprints and recording their progress with pictures and videos.

Brown said she set a series of deadlines to keep the students on track and helped them work through any issues that arose.

“I will give them suggestions or help them develop an idea, but the class brainstorms, discusses and they lead the conversation,” she added. “… We discussed issues they were working on, and they would tell me how they were troubleshooting those problems.”

Catapults rely on the release of stored energy to launch a projectile from an arm across a great distance. Things like springs and elastics can be used to build up that tension before it’s released, similar to a slingshot. Once released, the arm rises in an arc motion to fling the projectile.

A trebuchet, on the other hand, relies on gravity to launch an object. According to PBS, it uses a lever that pivots on an axle. A counterweight is put at the short end of the lever, while the projectile often hangs in a sling attached to the other end. When the counterweight is dropped, the other end of the lever rises rapidly as the arm swings in an arc to launch the projectile.

According to Brown, the 2019 Pumpkin Chunkin’ contest saw a record-setting pumpkin launch of 204 feet. This year, however, there were six entries in the contest and two beat that record. The second-place team overtook the previous record by more than 20 feet, launching their pumpkin 225 feet.

The winning team — consisting of students Carter Dees, Alex Martin and Kyle Seeley — used a trebuchet to launch their pumpkin even further, measuring in at 235 feet. Brown said the team used a drum as their counterweight, but they filled it with water to give it extra weight.

The students’ parents were welcome to attend the Pumpkin Chunkin’ event, and Brown said she enjoyed seeing the joy from both sides.

“My favorite part was seeing our parents interact with their children,” she said. “We have wonderful, supportive parents

that are invested in their children’s education, and seeing them all come together to encourage and help their children was a wonderful thing to witness. The students smiling, high fiving their dads and hugging their moms was nice to see. You can tell they were all invested in this project, which meant a lot to me, and knowing they had fun working on it.”

Besides the laws of physics and mechanics of these types of launchers, Brown said there were several other lessons to be learned from this project. One thing she said she hopes her students learned is that trial and error is a good thing.

“Learning from failure can be the best way to learn because they have to set back and figure out what went wrong, and how can they make it better,” Brown explained. “When a problem comes up, don’t give up, just continue to work the problem. I am proud to say that I believe my students did just that.”

While some groups faced more challenges than others, Brown said they were all successful in the end.

“They never gave up, and I think it will be an experience that they will remember for years to come,” she said. “It’s great to combine learning with a little fun competition. I am very proud of our students here at Beauregard High School.”

Richard Brown Jr, Principal Charles Hughes, Assistant Principal Cynthia Meals, Assistant Principal

Dear B.H.S. Class of 2023,

Each school year presents new opportunities to connect with new faces, opportunities to grow through new classes and programs and opportunities to make memories that will last a lifetime. The most beautiful things are not associated with wealth and money; they are memories and moments. In looking back at the last four years, I have only the fondest memories and genuine appreciation for the Beauregard High School Class of 2023.

Four years ago, I greeted you as a new principal, and I challenged you to leave a legacy at Beauregard. This class has definitely done that. This is the class who experienced a natural disaster and the tragic loss of life as eighth graders in March 2019. This is the class who transitioned to a high school campus in the fall of 2019 that had been demolished and was in the process of being rebuilt. This is the class who experienced another major life event when COVID sent everyone home in March 2020. Yet, this is also the class who excelled academically and athletically since arriving on campus. This is the class who has raised the standard and the expectations on our campus from ACT scores and college and career readiness to athletic championships and individual honors. Adversity and challenges should not define us, and they have not defined this class.

It is with mixed emotions that I approach our last few weeks together. You have left a mark on Beauregard High School and upon my heart. I wish each of you the very best, and I look forward to following your accomplishments. Go Hornets!

Sincerely,

Richard L. Brown, Jr. Principal

from LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS!

Unfinished Business

By Wil Crews Photos By Jerry Ballas

Leading his team to the state 3A Final Four in both of the previous two years, Beulah High School softball head coach Stan Pepper said he hopes 2023 can be the Bobcats’ year.

“We have got everything we need to return [to the semifinals],” Pepper said. “We just have to execute every week. We are actually probably better offensively and defensively overall, but it’s just a matter of depth in the circle. I’m confident that if we keep doing what we are doing and just cut the errors out, we will be where we need to be when it’s time to be there.”

At the time of writing, the 2023 Beulah softball team has won the AHSAA 3A regular season Area 7 title, the postseason 3A Area 7 Tournament and the 3A Central Regional in Montgomery, advancing to the state tournament.

Having lost four seniors from the 2022 team — two of whom are playing at the collegiate level now — the 2023 version of the Beulah Bobcats varsity softball team features three players in their last year of high school. To reach the lofty goals Pepper has set for his squad, the skipper will lean on those seniors — Savannah Clements, Brandy Phillips and Amiya Dunn — to help set the standard for the season.

“We lost some good talent and leadership but we have got good leadership from the seniors we have now,” Pepper, who is in his fifth year at Beulah, said. “All three do a great job in leading the girls in the right direction, and I couldn’t be prouder of their leadership ability.”

Pepper expanded how much Clements and Phillips, who last month was announced as the school’s first recipient of the Bryant Jordan Award (given by AHSAA to a student-athlete who is outstanding in both her academic and athletic career), mean to the team.

“[Brandy] is the heart and soul of this year’s team — she and Savannah Clements both are,” he said. “When I think of one I think

of the other. The way those two girls play and the way they lead us, we are going to follow them … whatever we do this year is going to be because of their leadership ability. Extremely proud of [Brandy]. Honored to be coaching her. And she deserves all the accolades she has gotten — she has earned them.”

Overall, Pepper said he is happy with how the Bobcats have performed this season. The team picked up some invaluable experience playing teams from higher classifications in the early part of the season, and Pepper said he knows the importance of those games when it comes to reaching the team’s ultimate goal: winning a state championship.

“Seeing those teams and seeing the pitching, we aren’t going to see any better throughout the year,” Pepper said. “We feel like we are battle tested. I’m not trying to brag or anything, but we will play anybody in the state. We are not going to back down from anybody.”

Pepper explained that the 2023 team’s identity is tied to its togetherness and ability to put bad plays — or games — behind them.

“We just battle through,” he said. “We don’t panic. That’s why we have been successful. The girls just keep playing. They are always looking forward. We don’t get down; we don’t get too excited. We just play ball. That’s our identity.”

The 3A state tournament will play out May 17 and 18. The Bobcats appear poised to accomplish what they are seeking. Regardless, the 2023 season for Beulah softball will be one to remember.

“We’ve got great young ladies who are great athletically, but more importantly they are going to be great citizens,” Pepper said. “If we keep improving like we are, we will have another chance to hopefully be in Oxford when all is said and done. We want to give all the praise to God. He gives us the ability and we want to make sure we are playing to glorify Him in everything we do.”

Beulah High School

Class of 2023

Not pictued: Quin’Asia Calloway, Savannah Coulter, Jerrick Hamby, Jania Hartley, Janay Kile, Tyler Schwarz, Jordan Smith, Essence Mary Uzzle and Gabriel Whitlow.

Ashton Hardy (right) and Trent House (left) pose together at baseball workouts.

RISING ABOVE

By Noah Griffith Photos Contributed to LIVE Lee

Pop! The sound of a catcher’s mitt receiving a pitch echoes through the empty baseball facility of Glenwood School in Phenix City.

It is 7 p.m. in the offseason month of September and practice ended an hour ago, but baseball is all Ashton Hardy knows since his father passed away from a drug overdose at age 12, leaving him in the care of his aunt, uncle and grandparents.

Despite a heartbreaking childhood, Ashton is a consistent honor roll student, loyal friend and an avid outdoorsman. If he isn’t on a diamond somewhere, it’s likely that he is on his family’s hunting land out in Lee County hunting for his latest turkey, deer or even waiting for the bass to tug on his lure.

He is determined. He sticks to what he loves and excels in it. But his hobbies look a little bit different now. At his baseball games, he looks over his shoulder to see a fence without his dad’s face behind it, cheering him on. His dad isn’t there to urge him to do his homework anymore. He loves going out to eat with his family, but now there’s one less seat at the table.

One October afternoon in 2017, Ashton went off to school in his first year at Smiths Station Junior High, and his uncle picked him up after school and took him everywhere but home.

His father, Shane Hardy, had had an argument with his mom over taking Soma, a drug that his psychologist prescribed him, that she deemed unnecessary and dangerous.

“I had never heard of it, but when I talked to Ben (Ashton’s uncle) about it and then I looked it up, I was like ‘Oh, he doesn’t need to be on this,’” said Linda Dmitri, Ashton’s grandmother and Shane’s mother. “His quote was: ‘Well, it’ll help with withdrawals…’ Well, I took Soma away from him.”

Dmitri kept all of Shane’s medications in her gun cabinet and laid out each morning what he was supposed to take for that day. That was never enough for Shane.

He remained adamant on taking the drug, and after his psychologist re-prescribed it to him, he snuck it back into his car. They assumed he drove off, but he never left the driveway. A few hours later, Dmitri found Shane in his car, and he was dead.

“The night he OD’d, it wasn’t on purpose, it was accidentally, but he took his meds and then Soma on top of it,” Dmitri said. “Shane was always like, ‘If one pill won’t fix it, I’ll take one more. It’ll be okay.’ Basically, he just took one too many.”

Shane had struggled with a drug addiction since he was 14-years-old, but Dmitri said he was a great father to Ashton despite hisaddicition that he tried, but couldn’t escape from.

“Ashton knows what happened and why he passed away. I think he finally understands that it wasn’t something his daddy really wanted to do,” Dmitri said. “I remember (Shane) sitting at the kitchen bar and said ‘I really don’t want to live like this anymore.’ But it was just more than he could battle… We always feared it, and we tried so hard for it not to happen, but it did.”

Ashton now keeps his father’s ashes in a grey box on his

grandmother’s gun cabinet, and it has remained there ever since.

“I ask him every so often ‘Do you want to do anything different now with your daddy?’ He knows I leave it up to him,” Dmitri said. “Well, he’s adamant that he doesn’t want his daddy moved. What comfort that brings him, I don’t know.”

Now, he uses his childhood hardships to fuel his work on the baseball field. Shane introduced Ashton to baseball when he was in coach pitch, and as a senior in high school, Ashton still glances behind him from his position behind the plate to see where his dad used to stand and watch his games.

According to Dmitri, the diamond is where he still feels a connection to his dad. He has always been a catcher, and behind the plate is his “comfort zone.”

17-year-old Ashton and his friend and Glenwood teammate Trent House “practically live” in the baseball facility, joked Glenwood Athletic Director and baseball head coach Tim Fanning.

“Sometimes I have to silence my phone because he’s always asking me if he can come to the facility after hours, which is a testament to him and his commitment to trying to do whatever he can for the baseball program,” Fanning said. “I ought to charge them rent.”

Ashton is as dedicated a high school baseball player as there is. The sport has represented a getaway for him ever since he and his dad moved in with Ashton’s aunt and uncle, Ben and Jill Hardy, when he was 2-years-old.

In addition to the loss of his dad, Ashton’s mom has never been in his life, as she also struggles with a drug addiction. She has asked to visit with Ashton a few times, but he never enjoyed her company, according to Dmitri.

Through all the uncertainty and hardships, the baseball field is the place he feels the most comfortable.

“I just really like baseball, and I like having a craft,” Ashton said. “I like working on my skills each and every day. I just really enjoy playing. Ever since coach pitch, my dad was one of my coaches, so [that’s what got me into baseball].”

Outside of spending time outdoors, all he wants to do is play baseball. It is his form of therapy and his way to carry out his dad’s legacy.

“Baseball has always been Ash’s passion, and that’s what him and his dad shared together,” Ashton’s uncle Ben Hardy said. “That’s really his life. He’s in school right now and still plays travel ball year-round… [The baseball field] has always been his happy place. If he didn’t have baseball in his life, I don’t know what he’d do with himself.”

Now, Ashton lives with his grandmother, as he has since he was 2. He attends Glenwood, where his aunt and uncle’s kids go, after attending Smiths Station up until the loss of his father. Ashton has since found purpose and passion since his move to Glenwood in seventh grade, which his uncle said is the best thing

they ever did for the senior.

The extra hours in the weight room, the batting cage and catching bullpens is his way of leading by example, a value that Fanning knows all about. The coach has written two books titled “Serve to Lead,” and leading by serving others is a lesson he seeks to pass on to his players. According to Fanning, Ashton has done just that.

“A lot of times, out of tragedy comes inspiration, and I know he doesn’t see it that way because it’s just his everyday life,” Fanning said. “But other people see that, and they see that he didn’t allow that to define him. I’ve seen him face adversity and maybe not get the results that he wanted to, but it never kept him from striving to achieve goals.”

Despite discovering his passion with baseball, Ashton has a tougher time opening up about his loss. He voiced how difficult the interview was after it ended. According to Fanning, Ashton isn’t used to talking about what happened with his parents. He was nervous and hesitant to change that, but he voiced confidence in God’s plan despite his hardships.

“It helps me knowing he’s in a better place and knowing that God’s got him, and I know he’d want me to keep doing this and try to be the best person I can be,” Ashton said. “So I guess that’s what helps me every day.”

House, a pitcher who is “like two peas in a pod” with Ashton according to Fanning, said the two spend a ton of time together and have known each other since age 11, but rarely ever talk about his parents.

After transferring from Smith Station to Glenwood following the passing of his father to be closer to family, Glenwood became his new family. According to Ashton’s uncle, former Headmaster Frankie Mitchum and the Glenwood staff welcomed Hardy with open arms. Mitchum told Ashton’s uncle that his father also died when he was near Ashton’s age and that he would do whatever he could to help, and the rest

of the staff followed Mitchum’s lead.

In particular, Ashton named his seventh-grade bible teacher, Melanie Johnson, as a member of the Glenwood staff who made the biggest impact on him. As he entered a new school as a shy, quiet middle schooler, Johnson took him under her wings and let him know that he would be okay.

“I just kept pointing him to Jesus and that God has a purpose and plan for us,” Johnson said. “I wanted him to see that God can take the brokenness that it seems like we’re in and use it for his glory. I just tried to remind him of that every day that God has more for him than he can see.”

Although Ashton is still healing from the unexpected loss and trying to find how to react to it, his coach, teacher, uncle and teammate all pointed out his maturity over the years — physically and mentally. Ashton has not only developed a work ethic of steel, Fanning pointed to his selflessness, discipline, as well as his physical growth.

Nearing the end of his senior year, Ashton is now focusing on drawing the eye of college coaches in hopes of fulfilling his dream of playing baseball beyond the high school level.

According to Fanning, he has shot up what seems like a foot in the last year, and his work in the gym is paying dividends.

Ashton started high school as an undersized catcher, but House said not getting a lot of playing time early in his high school career pushed him and Ashton to put in the extra work after hours.

According to Fanning, Ashton continues to compete for playing time behind the plate for Glenwood. He entered the back end of his final year of high school with a chance to honor his dad with whatever comes next.

“I hope to go to maybe a junior college to play baseball if I can and see where that takes me,” Ashton said. “[In order to honor my dad], I want to grow up and be very successful, get a good job and just have a good future — I guess just be a very good person to others.”

Ashton and his dad after a little league baseball game

A SPECIAL SEASON

Lee-Scott Academy Looks Back on Football Season

of Firsts

By Daniel Locke

Photos By Jerry Ballas and Contributed

The 2022 football season was a special one for the Lee-Scott Academy Warriors. The team won the state championship for the first time in school history and had some special seniors leading the way.

“This senior class means the world to me,” said head coach Buster Daniel. “They’re a great bunch of kids. We got 18 seniors we’re losing this year. They are great kids, they are great people and they are really, really good football players, and we’re really going to miss them.

“They’re just a joy to be around. I tell people all the time I don’t have to come to work, I get to come to work and be with these guys because they’re a great bunch of young men.”

The Warriors made history this season, and this senior class played a significant role in bringing home the school’s first state championship.

“It is a great send-off for them, but they deserve it,” Daniel said. “… Some of them have been here all three years that

I’ve been here, so they have worked from day one to earn all the honors and to earn the state championship. Making history was special, but just being with these guys every day and seeing them grow into young men — that was more special than anything.”

Coaches teach important lessons to their players, but the lessons that younger players learn from watching their older teammates are one of the most special parts of high school sports. Daniel highlighted some of the things that he hopes the underclassmen learned from these seniors.

“The work ethic and the leadership,” Daniel said in particular. “That’s the biggest thing we’re going to lose from these guys. They led on the field, off the field, led by example all the time. So we need some of these guys to pick up where they left off.”

Roster turnover is often one of the biggest challenges coaches face. Daniel is aware of this and knows what it will take to fill the void left by these seniors.

“Again, it’s the leadership thing,” he said. “We need guys to step up and take those roles. It’s going to be hard to fill some of the shoes that are leaving us, but we need [the underclassmen] to see how [the seniors] played, how they practiced, how they worked in the weight room, and we need to transition that way to get everybody going in the same direction.”

The Warriors said they appreciate the fan support they received this season and recognize the difference it made.

“It doesn’t matter what school you’re playing in front of, the fans need to be there,” Daniel said. “Our people turned out. The Glenwood game, the Chambers game — you expect to have big crowds there. Week in and week out we had huge crowds. I really appreciate that, and the support has been great here.”

The Warriors had a special group of seniors this year, including offensive and defensive lineman Joseph Horne, linebacker Dalan Bush and AISA “Back of the Year” George Meyers.

Being the first team in school history to bring home a state title is something that means the world to the players who helped bring it home.

“It was really just an accumulation of all the work we put in over the past three years with Coach Daniel,” Horne said. “All the hard work paying off — it was a euphoric feeling.”

Both Meyers and Bush echoed Horne’s sentiments.

“It was a really cool feeling,” Meyers said. “Just seeing all the work and preparation we took into the year just coming into fruition on the field that night, and just awesome doing it

with your brothers.”

“It just shows all the hard work that paid off,” Bush added. “All the extra work we did together, it really pays off.”

These three seniors each shared some advice with the underclassmen to help Lee-Scott maintain its success on the field.

“I would say definitely stay in the weight room because that helps,” Horne said. “Listen to the coaches because they know what they’re talking about. If everyone does their job, every play will go their way.”

Meyers pointed out the importance of listening to leadership and having a team player’s mindset.

“Buy into what the coaches have to say,” he advised. “They are the cheerleaders of the team, so do what they say. If everyone as a team just combines into a group effort, you can’t stop a combined group effort.”

Being a team player and working hard to fulfill your duties on the field are two things Bush spoke to as well.

“I would say know your role and do it right, and do your job every single day,” Bush said. “Do all you can in the weight room; do extra is what I would say because more work can’t hurt for sure.”

As they prepare for their next chapter, the three seniors spoke on what Lee-Scott Academy means to them not just as football players, but as students.

“This school means a lot to me,” Horne said. “I’ve actually been here my whole life since preschool and we’ve never won state in football, and it’s great to be a part of Lee-Scott

history.”

“I was here earlier, then I transferred out in ninth grade and came back for my senior year,” Meyers said. “It’s awesome having the opportunity to come here and just be able to enjoy this feeling of winning state, just being with a family — and a great bond. The school as well, it just makes me feel at home.”

“I played all three of my varsity seasons here,” Bush said. “The years I’ve played here mean the world to me and were the best thing for me. The best decision I made was to come here, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

The 2022 squad was a special team for Lee-Scott football, one that will be remembered forever. An outstanding senior class led the way not only in bringing home the state title this season, but in laying the foundation for more teams to enjoy the same success.

George Meyers

Dear Lee-Scott Academy Graduates, I

t is with mixed emotions that I sit down to write a letter to you. As we embark upon the last few days with one another, it has caused me to spend some significant time reflecting on your school experience, your future endeavors and the school’s role in both of these. While what the next phase of your life will hold for you is extremely exciting to me, I am saddened to think that our daily interactions will soon come to a halt. While I am hopeful for what your contributions of leadership, citizenship, passion, hard work and dedication will bring to our community, I am apprehensive about the absence of your lead-by-example character, attitude and presence here at LSA. While I am inspired by the opportunities and successes that lie before you, I am still in awe of those you have left as your legacy in our halls, on our walls and in our hearts.

While we thank you for what you have done to leave your indelible mark upon our school, we want to encourage, support and have hopefully prepared you to make an even larger mark on our society.

You will always be a Warrior... be proud of that. This will always be a home for you... please visit often. Please know how much all of you mean to me.

Thank you Class of 2023. You have left a mark on Lee-Scott Academy and you have left a mark upon my heart. I care about each of you and I will miss you all. I wish you the very best of luck and look forward to all that your class will accomplish in the future.

Go Warriors!

Dr. Stan Cox Head of School

Loachapoka’s Hart Sets the Standard

By Wil Crews

Photos By John Pyle

From his quiet demeanor, ever-present poker face and school-branded basketball sweatshirt, you wouldn’t know Loachapoka senior Jacorious “J.C.” Hart is the school’s next big football prospect.

From the way he, his coaches and administrators talk about his interest, you may not know he plays football at all. College universities do, however.

Way back in the spring of 2022, Hart, a hopeful and entrepreneurial student by day, all-around athlete by night, picked up a football scholarship from Yale University. It’s was the first time, in fact, that any student-athlete from Loachapoka has received an athletics scholarship from an Ivy League school.

“J.C. is like the spearheaded leader of his class,” said Loachapoka head football coach Reco Newton. “Everybody just looks up to him and bonds to him.”

Yale was just the first of a number of offers that were to come Hart’s way; the 6-foot-2-inch, 180-pound, lengthy defensive back drew interest from fellow Ivy Leaguers Dartmouth and Penn, along with other programs such as UAB, Troy, Jacksonville State and more. The most pertinent “more,” in this instance, was an offer from his hometown team, the Auburn University Tigers. Hart committed to play for the Tigers in August of 2022.

“First, I want to give all the glory to God for giving the ability to play the game I love at the next level,” Hart said at Loachapoka High School, a school of just over 175 students located 12 miles from Jordan-Hare Stadium where Auburn plays on Saturdays. “I want to thank my parents and family for being my biggest supporters on and off the field. I want to give a special thanks to my mom for doing all she could to make it all happen. Thank you to all the coaches and teammates who supported me and guided me through the process. With that said, for the next three to four years I will be continuing my academic and athletic career at Auburn University. War Eagle.”

Hart ultimately chose the Tigers over Mississippi State, UCF and Vanderbilt. A three-star cornerback in the 247 Composite rankings, Hart was ranked as the 698th best player nationally, and the No. 71-ranked cornerback and 30th-ranked player in the state of Alabama. He is the first Loachapoka player to commit to the Tigers since Montavis Pitts in 2002.

Along with Loachapoka’s close geographical relation to Auburn, and the relationship he built with Auburn secondary coach

Zac Etheridge, Hart had another reason for choosing the Tigers. The late Jeff Klein, a former Auburn player and Loachapoka coach, passed away April 2022 at age 43. Klein was a big reason Hart attended camps at Auburn which eventually led to him being offered.

“He really wanted me to come here,” Hart said of Klein. “He’s a major product in all of this, too. ‘Cause I know he really wanted me to go to Auburn. He even told me like, if I get an Auburn offer, go.”

Hart ran a 4.37 40-yard dash at Auburn’s camp in June 2022. Impressive numbers like that, and his over-4.0 GPA, led the Auburn football staff to offer the ‘Poka standout.

There is no doubt Hart’s efforts on the gridiron have solidified him as a household name within his community; but there is more than game-changing interceptions and electrifying plays to this up-and-coming star.

“I’ve been watching him since seventh grade,” Newton said. “I saw then what they were talking about as far as when he gets the ball, he scores with it. Ninth grade year I saw him develop more into a football player; 10th grade I saw him get bigger, faster, stronger; 11th grade year, I seen him come into his own, putting everything together.”

From a young age, Hart has excelled at everything he’s done. Before Newton convinced Hart to join the football team in ninth grade, the bright-eyed teenager was more focused on his musical talents and academic success.

“He started out with me in sixth grade in band, and for the first two years [seventh and eighth grade], he was over here in band, and he was an outstanding performer,” said Loachapoka Band Director Shane Colquhoun. “His dad played division one football at Marshall. So we knew there was something there — you just couldn’t see. Then that summer, going into his ninth grade year, he said he wanted to give it a shot; literally that summer he transformed his body and jumped up.”

Throughout his growing commitment to football, Hart has remained focused on his schooling. He boasts a top-of-the-classworthy GPA, enjoys reading and still makes time for his classical interest by taking music courses at school.

“He’s very hardworking in the classroom, very hard worker in the weight room,” Newton said. “Also, he is a great leader too. He has younger cousins that play here for us, and he talks to them and mentors them about academics and doing what is right

in the community, things like that. He’s overall a great leader.”

Hart said he doesn’t mind the attention that comes with collegiate scholarship offers; in fact, what motivates him the most is the people who look up to him.

“Being someone who other people look up to, I take pride in that,” he said. “Through football and academics.”

Hart said his recruitment process was an easy adjustment to make. However, with his interest in business and entrepreneurialism, he is still trying to decide what he wants most from higher education — keeping in mind aspects outside of the

football program.

“I’ve been learning stuff, like how the financial system works and things like that,” he said. “The academics, location and the people around [are a priority].”

Regardless of what he ends up doing, those close to him at Loachapoka know he will continue to set standards.

“He’s a great kid and will literally be successful in anything he wants,” Colquhoun said. “Wherever he puts his mind, he’s going to get it.”

Class of Class of

Dear Class of 2023,

Congratulations on completing this journey in life — graduation! You have turned in your last exams, written your last essays and turned in your final projects. Now it’s time to see what exciting adventures await you at college or in a new career path. It’s time to use all of the great experiences and lessons you’ve learned — both from life and school.

As mayor of this great city, I want you to know how proud I am of you and your accomplishments. A lot of people have probably offered you advice regarding your future. The trick, of course, is determining what advice is good or maybe not so good! Graduating high school can be as scary as it is exciting. My advice to you is simple: listen more than you talk. Be open to change. Be flexible. You will be amazed at what you can learn!

This part of your life hasn’t always been easy. But you were persistent and navigated your way through it all. Your hard work and passion paid off!

I believe we all need divine help, so keep God a major part of what you’re doing. You’ve now reached an important milestone and you should be proud of yourself. I know your parents, family and friends are. Congratulations and best wishes to each of you .

Gary Fuller Mayor, City of Opelika

Opelika

High

School

Class of 2023

The City of Opelika is proud of each member of this exceptional class. It took hard work and determination to reach this milestone.

Mayor Gary Fuller, the Opelika City Council and all City of Opelika employees wish you the best. We know you will do great things and make our community proud.

The time is now to make an impact in your community and the world around you. Follow your passions. Reach for your dreams. Live life to the fullest. Find your purpose and you will be rewarded in return.

Best of luck!

opelika-al.gov

Magic in Opelika

By Stacey Patton Wallace

Photos By Becky Brown, Robert Noles and Mike Wallace

MWelcome to Arendellem

In April, the Opelika High Theatre Society (OHTS) turned the stage of the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts into the magical world of Arendelle, from Disney’s “Frozen: The Broadway Musical.” This was quite an honor because Opelika was the only high school in Alabama to be chosen to produce the popular musical this school year.

Opelika alumna and former OHTS member Auburn Terry Chason submitted the application for the competition last July 31. Chason’s passion for her alma mater, writing talent and firsthand experience with OHTS won the rights to the musical.

Revel Gholston, Opelika’s director of “Frozen: The Broadway Musical,” had forwarded the contest announcement to Chason because he thought that she could win it for them — and she did.

Gholston has taught at Opelika High School for over 22 years. He teaches theater, technical theater and theater for special needs students — a particular joy to him, he said — and has directed OHTS students in over 70 productions.

“I’m fond of too many to mention one favorite,” Gholston said, looking back.

Gholston said auditions for “Frozen: The Broadway Musical” were held when students returned from winter break. On Jan. 12, rehearsals began. The dedicated cast rehearsed Monday through Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m.

According to Gholston, two aspects of “Frozen” have been particularly fun.

“It’s allowed us to try some new theatrical technology we haven’t tried before: puppetry and a digital wall,” he said. “Also, this is one of the first shows that the kids already knew everything about because they grew up with it. It’s fun to see them bring it to life.”

The production has been challenging as well, Gholston said.

“Disney always asks for more out of its directors than other companies,” he said. “They call for magic, and this particular production revolves around it. Being modern, the magic is even more advanced.”

Gholston credits his wife Kate, a teacher at Opelika Middle School, for helping him along the way.

“She’s my harshest critic and my strongest support system,” he said.

Besides having a dedicated and experienced director, OHTS is blessed with a talented group of actors who perform “Frozen: The Broadway Musical.”

In fact, the actors’ excitement, enthusiasm and joy to perform were almost palpable onstage.

Senior Emily Bearden was chosen to play the part of Anna and said she relates to her onstage persona. In fact, she has connected with the character since she was little.

“Anna is very spontaneous and in the moment,” Bearden explained. “I’m ADHD, so I can relate to that. Also, Anna’s quirky like I am.”

Anna’s eternally upbeat personality can be challenging to play at times, however.

“If I’m not feeling great, it’s hard to get into the character of Anna because she’s always fun and outgoing,” Bearden said.

Since she is a senior, Bearden has been in numerous OHTS productions.

“I really like everybody in theater. It’s a great place to meet and connect with people,” she said.

Bearden’s favorite song to sing is “The First Time in Forever.”

“In the song, Anna is all over the place, and it shows how she sees the world: always exciting and fun,” Bearden explained. “It’s how I see the world, too. Also, Anna’s into romance, and so am I.”

Bearden, like her onstage sister, has a very busy schedule. Besides school during the day and “Frozen” at night, she also has a part-time job at Jim Bob’s and participates in tennis and show choir.

As college approaches, Bearden said she has really been thinking about majoring in theater. One day, she would like to become a professional actress.

Senior Kobe Smith brings the charcter of Olaf, the snowman, to life onstage. Smith also relates to Olaf’s cheerful personality. “I think that a part of me enjoys being that happy person who people like to be around,” Smith said. “I can be happy not just with them, I can be happy for them.”

When Smith learned he had won the role, he said he got weak in the knees. He had worked hard for it, and he wanted to be “an image that personified the desires and talents of everyone who tried out for the role of Olaf.”

Smith carries an Olaf puppet onstage, which is strapped onto him.

“When I practiced with him for the first time, the cast was really interested in how the puppet and I worked together,” he said. “My speech and the puppet’s speech must sync up. It’s funny when I hold Olaf’s mouth open for a really long note.”

As a senior, Smith is also an OHTS veteran. He expressed gratitude to his mom, family and friends who have supported him along the way.

“The juggling can be hard,” he admitted. “Some days I come in exhausted. But when I come to rehearsal, I always feel refreshed and energized. We’re ecstatic to give what we can.”

Junior Atticus O’Banner has been in many other OHTS productions as well. He won the role of Hans, the power-hungry villain in the musical.

“I auditioned for Hans because I wanted to be mean,” O’Banner said. “The character of Kristoff was too nice. I wanted the challenge of being a manipulative villain.”

O’Banner said he has the most fun in a scene towards the end of Act I, when he sings “Hans of the Southern Isles Reprised.”

“It’s my favorite song to sing because it feels very compelling,” he said. “It’s a very powerful song, and I love the challenge of the hard notes.”

Although sophomore Stella George has been in several other OHTS productions, the character of Elsa is her first major role.

“When the OHTS was chosen as the only one in the state to put on ‘Frozen: The Broadway Musical,’ it was surreal because a lot of other theater departments have more money, but it shows how good Mr. Gholston and our company are,” George said. “I originally auditioned for the part of Anna, but Mr. Gholston thought I was more suited for Elsa. My reaction was an ‘OMG’ moment. I had no idea I would get the part. It was a great surprise.”

George said that she related to Elsa because she, too, is an overthinker: She thinks about how others see her and at times

feels that the whole world is on her shoulders.

For George, the most fun part of acting in “Frozen” is that everyone is really supportive if her voice cracks or she messes up a line, she said.

“Most of the ‘Frozen’ cast met when we were performing in ‘Grease’ and ‘Mary Poppins,’” George said, noting how close the cast has become.

George balances school, OHTS, tennis and her part-time job at her parents’ business, O Town Ice Cream.

“My parents and Coach Massey, my tennis coach, are very understanding and flexible,” she said.

And George has no plans miss out on future OHTS productions.

“We are the jocks of the theater,” she joked.

Sophomore Clayton McBurney portrays Kristoff, who ultimately wins Anna’s heart. He said he was “thrilled” to learn he had won the part, especially since he can relate to Kristoff.

character; Kristoff goes from being a rough mountain man to a caring man who has a soft spot and falls in love with Anna.”

Besides school and being in “Frozen,” McBurney is also in show choir, a rock band and the SGA. In addition, he takes voice and dance lessons.

McBurney credits his teachers for his ability to juggle so many activities.

“Our teachers are very understanding and will work with us,” he said. “Some of them will be in a dance number in the show. Also, I find time to do my work during school and homework during rehearsals,” he said.

McBurney said he definitely plans to audition for future OHTS productions. Also, he plans to major in theater, voice and music education in college.

“My voice teachers Addie Garner and April McDonald are helping me prepare for college auditions,” he said. “I would love to be a professional actor one day.”

The most physically demanding character to portray in

“I’ve always wanted to play him,” he said. “Also, I love being able to act with a reindeer. I’m like Kristoff; he was a loner at first, and he has a soft heart. He loves Sven as I do Noble, my German shepherd. Also, he’s very witty.”

For McBurney, the most fun part of being in the musical has been working with the cast.

“People in the theater are wonderful,” he said.

In addition, McBurney said the show’s music is “beautiful but challenging.”

“I’m a tenor, so lower notes are hard, and Kristoff sings a lot of them,” he said. “Also, it’s hard playing a dynamic

“Frozen: The Broadway Musical,” is the reindeer Sven. Patrick Seymore, who is a junior, didn’t audition for the role. Instead, he talked to Gholston about playing the part.

“The young man walked in and said he wanted the role,” Gholston recalled. “I knew he was an athlete; he does track and field, cross country and endurance training. He was ready to go as Sven.”

Seymore said the physicality of playing Sven is difficult.

“The costume is incredibly hot, with the fur, head gear and tights,” he said. “I’m on my toes the entire time with half of my weight on my legs and the other half on my arms, which

are on stilts. The walking is difficult because I’m holding a plank position the whole time; this requires a great deal of core and abdominal strength. A few times, the fur on the stilts slipped off, nearly causing me to stumble on stage.”

Sven is Seymore’s first onstage role. He usually works behind the scenes for OHTS productions, but he is considering auditioning for other productions in the future. However, Seymore still enjoys tech and will continue to work in that area. He’s considering majoring in the

technology side of theater in college.

Sven’s costume and the Olaf puppet were made by Sarah Seymore, an active parent who is also the main costume designer for OHTS. She also works full time for Opelika City Schools as a speech pathologist.

It took a lot of hard work, talent and determination from many people to bring magic to the stage of the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. However, the Opelika High Theatre Society manages to do just that every year. Bravo.

Dear Graduating Seniors,

On behalf of the city of Smiths Station Administration and Council, I want to extend you my warmest wishes as you prepare for one of the biggest accomplishments in your young lives! I remember what this experience was like, and I hope you’ll soak this moment in with family, friends and those you care about the most.

I am excited to see the things you will do and the places you will go. No matter what those are or how far away they take you, know that Smiths Station will always be your home and that is something that will never change.

Congratulations, Class of 2023!

Sincerely,

Mayor F. L. “Bubba” Copeland City of Smiths Station

The Dream Day Foundation Supports all 2023 Graduates. Thank you for your support in the Annual MLK Jr. Celebration, The Annual Black Male Summit, Monthly Mini Summits and Workshops

The One Awards are issued annually to outstanding high school students and teachers in the Chattahoochee Valley area. Winners and runners-up in 13 student categories and one teacher category are selected from all high schools in the area who submit nominations.

Smiths Station High School nominated 11 students in various categories for the 48th annual Page One Awards, held this spring in Columbus, Georgia. While all the nominees were honored onstage, two out of the 11 Smiths Station students received special recognition at the ceremony. Jaiden Parham was selected as the overall winner in the Journalism category, while Aubrey Hallam was named runner-up in the Athletics category.

“We are all inspired by the accomplishments of our Page One nominees,” said Marquette McKnight, founder and CEO of Media, Marketing and More, at the ceremony. “... Our entire community is proud of all of you, and it’s a better place to live because each of you are a part of it.”

According to the Ledger-Enquirer, the judges wrote this comment in regards to choosing Parham as the Journalism winner: “Jaiden is a well-rounded student-athlete, leader and community volunteer, as well as having a focus in journalism. We were impressed by his demonstration of leadership skills through his hard work and mentorship of his peers.”

Dear Class of 2023, I

t is finally time for you to walk across the graduation stage and into the next chapter of your life. Congratulations on completing this very important part of your journey! You have dedicated much of your life to bettering yourself with an education. Whether you wish to continue on with higher education or with a career, you have already displayed the qualities at Smiths Station High School that will provide further success.

You have persevered through many challenges in school and in life. These challenges have formed a particular grit in you that will further provide great accomplishments! Once again, congratulations! And continue your journey toward a productive, successful life — forever a Smiths Station High School graduate!

Dr. Robert B. Cook Principal, Smiths Station High School

Building Up Cheer

By Wil Crews Photos Contributed To LIVE Lee

As homeschooling continues to grow in popularity, families are finding new ways to give their children the chance to participate in extracurricular activities. Southern Christian Athletics (SCA), a private, Christian sports organization in Opelika, Alabama, is providing that opportunity for homeschoolers in the area.

One homeschool student who has found a home with SCA is 19-year-old Anna Grace Tucker. Anna Grace, who moved to Opelika with her family from Huntsville, Alabama, has been homeschooled for most of her life.

“My husband became the electronics instructor at Southern Union, so that brought us to Opelika,” said Irene Tucker, Anna Grace’s mom and cheer coach. “We decided to try the city out and we like it.”

Irene originally came across SCA while looking for football opportunities for her son. While SCA didn’t have a cheerleading squad at the time, Anna Grace, being a threetime national champion cheerleader, was asked if she wanted to start one. Comfortable with her life in Huntsville, Anna Grace admitted she was hesitant at first. Eventually, however, she did commit to helping SCA build a cheer team, but still did not plan to be a member herself. That didn’t quite pan out either as Anna Grace felt compelled to stay close to her family and decided remain in Opelika and head the SCA cheer squad.

“It was hard switching teams, trying to find where you fit in,” she said. “But everybody was so welcoming and loving, it didn’t matter.”

Eventually, under Anna Grace’s leadership, SCA took home a national championship in the cheer program’s inaugural season.

“It was because of her leadership and work ethic,” Irene said. “She’s a very talented cheerleader and dancer. Every team she has been on has been a national championship team. I am convinced, not just because I am her mother, but because I have coached her too, that it was because of her talent, work ethic and leadership.”

SCA offers a variety of sports for homeschoolers, including volleyball, basketball, baseball, football and cheer. The organization competes against other private schools in the area and provides homeschoolers with the chance to experience the thrill of playing on a team and competing against others.

For Irene, SCA has been a fantastic opportunity for her to bond with her daughter, and for Anna Grace to stay active and socialize with other students.

“It’s been wonderful,” Irene said of her family’s experience with SCA. “I was the coach of her team in Huntsville, and it’s always been a good fit. She is an excellent leader and very easy to coach. And it was an opportunity for her to create the culture of the team she wanted.”

SCA not only provides homeschoolers with the opportunity to play sports, but it also offers a community of like-minded individuals who share their faith and values. For Anna Grace, this has been an essential part of her experience with SCA.

“Meeting new people, getting new friends and just being welcomed when you don’t really know anybody was such a privilege and a blessing,” she said.

Next fall, Anna Grace plans to attend Southern Union State Community College, where she received a scholarship. She said she hopes to pursue dance and business. This summer, she plans to finish up her associate degree through dual enrollment courses before enjoying some time working as a camp counselor.

With SCA’s commitment to Christian values and providing homeschoolers with a chance to play sports, it’s no wonder that Anna Grace and her mother speak so highly of the organization. For families like the Tuckers, SCA is a fantastic way to help their children stay active, make new friends and feel like they are part

of a community.

“Southern Christian has done a beautiful job at providing athletics for youth who aren’t in a public school setting,” Irene said. “They provide it with excellence and on a level that is comparable with sports you would get in a school setting.”

q'J

CLASS o/2023

FRED ERi CK-DEAN

FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY

Crowning Achievements

By Kendyl Hollingsworth

Photos Contributed To LIVE Lee

To agree or disagree: That is the question in today’s world. The clash of ideas, opinions, beliefs and values is all around us. Whether in the news, online or even at the dinner table, it’s inevitable that we will be exposed to different views on a daily basis.

The seniors at Trinity Christian School in Opelika know this — but they also know how to remain true to themselves as they digest the information around them and continue to grow as young Christians.

“You’re getting poured into in so many different ways and building strong future relationships with not only your peers and your friends, but also your teachers, and getting encouraged every single day to do your best for the glory of God,” said Emily Wright, a senior who has been attending Trinity for the past 12 years.

Wright and her classmates’ grade school education may look different from that of their public school peers, but the students have expressed a great deal of appreciation for their Trinity experience.

Seniors Ethan Clark and Caleb Dean, who both plan to study at Christian colleges after high school, said they support and appreciate having an education with a Christian worldview.

“I think it’s just a gateway to help young Christians find ways to glorify Him in their studies, in their actions, in their thoughts,” Clark said. “Everything about the Christian life needs to be Christ-oriented, and so a big part of that is education.”

For senior Bella Taylor, who plans to study exercise science at Troy University this fall, receiving her education through a Christian lens has made the upcoming transition to college feel less daunting.

“Whether we go to a Christian college or a public college, there’s going to be worldly things wherever you go, so going to a Christian school like this equips us to be able to defend our faith and stay strong in it,” she explained.

Part of the Trinity experience for seniors is Rhetoric Day — a sort of “capstone” project for which they spend the entire school year preparing. According to Clark, the assignment in teacher Thomas Smith’s rhetoric class really began in the summer before classes started back. The students were given “free

reign” to choose a topic for their rhetoric papers and speeches, though the best topics would be somewhat controversial in nature — or easily arguable from both sides.

When students returned in the fall, they presented their ideas to each other to determine whether the topics were worthy of discussion, not too broad or too narrow, and had plenty of researchable content and arguments from both ends of the spectrum. Once students nailed down their respective topics, it was time to begin the research.

Research generally entailed looking up the general history, determining how long people have been talking about it, who in particular has argued on it and what exactly the subject pertains to. From there, the students formed an outline and got to work putting their thoughts and evidence into words.

“It follows a logical structure of argumentation that kind of leaves the other side going, ‘I see what he was saying, he refuted my points [and] I feel obligated to go do something about this,’” Clark explained.

Once the students had finished writing and revising their speeches, it was time to focus on the delivery. Besides the basic interpersonal skills this required, students also focused on their call to action and presenting their points in a way that would be easy for the listener to digest.

Critical thinking skills were also key to the assignment and something the students had been developing throughout their time at Trinity, according to senior Daniel Shropshire.

“We’ve been able to train our brains in a way where we can think more critically than other people in a very logical and orderly sense,” he said. “With our rhetoric speeches, we had to do a very orderly process with that, and we know how to speak confidently about what we believe, and what we believe and know is the truth. So, we’re able to think clearly and display what we believe to be true in a world that doesn’t really know what truth is.”

Taylor said she used the knowledge and skills she gained from other classes at Trinity when constructing her arguments. Her speech was titled “Not a Chance” — a closer look at how human anatomy, nature and man’s morality prove the existence

Ethan Clark delivers his speech on Rhetoric Day, held April 13, 2023.

of a divine creator: God. She said she initially wanted to incorporate anatomy since she plans to major in exercise science.

“It was originally just going to be anatomy, but it seemed a little bit too narrow, so I widened it, and I think that the nature and morality strengthened my argument,” she said. “I just … wanted to prove the existence of God because we learned that in apologetics, too, and I used some of the arguments that we learned in that class as well.”

Similar to Taylor, Wright chose to speak on new media and how it affects storytelling because of her personal interest in journalism — a subject she plans to study at the University of Alabama. But beyond that, Wright said she wanted to argue that Christians should “use our resources to glorify God and tell about His truth.”

Many other students also chose to give their topics a Christian tie. Shropshire spoke on the continuation of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, Dean examined God’s purpose in suffering and Clark incorporated the importance of a Christian education in his speech, which he titled “God’s Children in the Hands of Caesar.”

“Because of our teachers and because of the resources we have, we are able to learn from a biblical worldview, so that

helps strengthen our faith in God and betters our relationship with Him so that as we’re walking with Him in our faith, our faith is built, and … I think He uses that to sanctify us in our walk with Him so that we become more like Christ, which is what we’re called to do,” Clark said.

Rhetoric Day was a culmination of the lessons and skills the students had developed over the past 12 years. Dean said he had to have a good work ethic, give his best effort and “trust the process” over the course of the assignment — skills he plans to take with him and apply at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago this fall.

“It was night and day for me — both the writing and speaking,” he said, looking back at his progress over the year.

“We’re all proud of what we did,” Wright said. “I think we all presented it really well, and we’re proud of the arguments and the work we’ve put into this. It’s the accumulation — sort of the capstone of our education here.

“Mr. Smith, our rhetoric teacher, calls it ‘The Big Show,’ and so it was a really important deal to all of us. I think that it just showed us how hard work and our persistence on this — all the things that we were learning up until this point — helped us with it, so it sort of gave us a new perspective on where we’re going.”

Emily Wright delivers her speech on Rhetoric Day, held April 13, 2023.

Lee County

Class Photos Contributed to LIVE Lee

*Disclaimer: The following lists of graduates’ names are not final and may not reflect 100% accuracy at the times of graduation.

Auburn High School

Abercrombie, Andrew Mark

Adams, Alastar Anne

Adams, William Thomas

Adu-Addai, Nana Kofi

Ahn, Yunseo

Al-Riyami, Adam Salim

Alcime, Myles Anthony

Aldana, Villatoro Paola Patricia

Alexander, Jackson Elliott

Allen, Je’Mya Mone’

Allison, Samuel Wallace

Amin, Sajel Joyce

Anderson, Baylee

Alyxander-Grace

Anderson, Samuel John

Andrews, Carson Fredrick

Anguiano-Aviles Luis Daniel

Ard, Aurora Brianne

Arik, Yusuf Emre

Armstrong, Brennan Kelly

Arnall, Hannah O’Bryan

Arnold, Reagan Elizabeth

Arnold, William Doyle

Arrington, Benjamin Kyle

Austin, Knyia Nicole

Autrey, Ella Faythe

Ayala, Martinez Kevin

Babar, Zarrak Khan

Babu, Shivani Ruk

Bachrach, Ben

Backo, Maria Leticia

Badea, Jessica

Baek, Soohyun

Bailey, Genesis Kalani Michelle

Bailey, Jacob Reece

Baker, Bradley Nicolas

Baker, Jalecia

Ball, Braden

Banks, Madalyne Chase

Bankson, Lanier Lee

Barber, Ayden Christopher

Barjis, Arshiabel Arshia

Barrington, Landon Bradford

Barron, Alexandra Victoria

Barua, Suchita

Bashir, Maya

Baskiyar, Sujay

Becker, Liam Daniel

Bedsole, Sarah Catherine

Belyeu, Cade Dawson

Benjamin, Daniel Paul

Bennett, DaShawn Nakilo

Benson, Arielle Simone

Benson, Carter Weil

Bernstein, Beck Walter

Besong, James Carter

Best, William Roy

Biblis, Mara Beth

Bingham, Mattie Elizabeth

Black, Jason Connor

Blair, Michael

Blakely, Princess K

Blersch, Emma Jane

Blomeyer, Thomas Logan

Bolding, Benjamin Charles

Boothe, Caleb Austin

Bosman, Claire Estelle

Bowen, Christian Isaiah

Bowens, La’Nyaha Mauricia

Bowens, Lawrence Maurice III

Bowie, Yesher

Boyd, Ty’Quavion Vas’quez

Bradford, Jahi Abram

Bradley, Charles Stevens Jr.

Brady, Cole William

Brawner, William Reuben IV

Breaux, Julia Marie

Brevard, Autumn Grace

Brewer, Michael J.

Brinkley, Lauren Bailey

Britton, James

Britton, Madeline Taylor

Brooks, Joseph Marion III

Brooks, K’nyah Nichole

Brooks, Sanyah Rose

Brown, Abigail Lynn

Brown, Jalin

Brown, Jereian Durell

Brown, Kiara Symone

Brown, Nathaniel Robert

Brown, Octavian Katrez Jr.

Brown, Shaniyah Sona

Brown, Simon Christopher

Bryant, Brenden Conley

Buckingham, Amelia Madelyn

Bufford, Cortez Jamon

Bullard, Landon Ri

Bundy, Jacob Merrill

Burkett, Cameron Brandt

Burkett, Connor Harold

Busby, Wyatt Alexander

Bush, Clark Joseph

Byrd, Ja’Kyra Janae

Byrd, Quaniyah Renee

Byrd, Tanyzha Danae

Caldwell, Audrey Elizabeth

Caldwell Sydney L.

Campos-Aradillas, Franklin Osvaldo

Cannon, Caroline Elisebeth

Cannon,Victoria Lillie

Cantrell, Landon Alexander

Carbajal, Rebecca E.

Card-Dumas, Jaden Calieb

Carlson, Caraline Lindsey

Carpenter, David Baxter III

Carr, JaKeith Jamal

Casconi, Charm Jordan

Castellano, Escobar Nohemy

Castro, Gabriel Angelo Biral

Catalan, Mendoza Angel Javier

Caudle, Mason Lochlan

Cetina-Castillo, Mia Alexandra

Chagolla, Oscar

Chalmin, Iris-Clara

Chansler, Rose-Katherine

Chatman, Armanii T. Kiyah

Chen, Key

Cherry, Evelyn Grace

Cheshire, Jordan Blair

Childs, Evie Catherine

Cho, Jihun

Choi, Taeyoung

Choi, Woojin

Chung, Benjamin

Clark, JaKya ILese

Cleveland, Finian Avery Jr.

Cleveland, Heisler Olivia

Cleveland, Stephen Klark

Clifton, Carson Lee

Clifton, Carter Edwin

Clifton, Robert Walker

Cloutier, Daemon

Coan, Anna Margaret

Cockerham, Jack Chapman

Cohen, Naudia Lekeisha

Ilene

Cole, Levi Thomas

Collier, Bryant Cole

Collier, Dawson Dwain

Cook, Se’Maj Arnesha

Cooper, Jessica Rose

Cooper, Tyona Kontrece

Cosby, Connor William

Cound, Molly Caroline

Crawford, Faylee Bathshell

Crawford, James P.

Crew, Pace Buckley

Croff, Ca’nija Ja’skye

Crutchfield, Coleman Scott

Curry, Katherine Haley

Curry, Lucy Catherine

Curry, Preston Manuel

Dafalla, Muram Amged

Dagg, Genevieve Rebecca

Daniell, Madalyn Grace

Daniels, Palmer Cannon

Davidson, James Samuel V

Davidson, Kellie Brynn

Davidson, Patrick Christopher Jr.

Davis, Alexandra Sutton

Davis, Claudia Casandra

Davis, Ivey Marie

Davis, Jayden Cephus

Del Aguila, Israel Matias

Derissaint, Berson Will

Derzis, Richard Ager

Dillard, TaQuira Ranijah

Donald, Ruth Ryland

Dong, Raymond

Dougherty, Salman Musa

Dover Alexander David

Dowdell, Janiya Denetria

Dowell, Antavia Jakayla

Downey, Emily Pauline

Doyle, Ella Cohen

Doyle, Luke Augustus-Parr

Dubberley, Brinkley Fallen

Duke, William Patrick

Dumoga, Elawoe Randolph

Duncan.Sophie Mae

Dunn, Noah Foster

Dunn, Rebecca Dana

Durham, Olivia Bree

Dyal, Grace Susan

Dzambazi, Dilon

Earles, Emma Clair

Eaves, James Douglas

Eaves, Jamia Danielle

Echols, Quanajah Marshenik

Echols, Tamiyah J’nae

Edwards, Cade Christopher

Edwards, Hayley Brooke

Edwards, Olen Harry

Efford, Zakiya McKenzie

Ehrhardt, Pereira, Samuel Pietro

Eljack, Rana Abdelmoniem

Elliott, Harry Christopher

Ellis, Ragan Rebecca

Elwell, Connor MacGregor

Emilus, Andre Johnson

Engle, Larkin Flynt

Esprit, Ahrowyn

Esters, Laila Amari

Evans, Ashley Nicole

Fain, Katie Grace

Farias, Cameron Jake

Fellows, Gabrielle Noa

Ferris, Jacob Avery

Finkhousen, Landen Raburn

Fletcher, Kyla Trynae

Fletcher, Zion Scott

Fligel, Brooke Elizabeth

Floyd, John Calhoun

Flurry, Luke Thomas

Foster, Margaret Elizabeth

Fowler, Jackson West

Freeman, Emily Michael

Freeman, Kailey Elizabeth

Friend, Katherine

Froede, Joshua Paul

Fulghum, Bradley Christopher

Fullenwilder, Amarreon A

Funderburk, Cynthia Kaitlyn

Galimore, Hudson Howard

Gan, Emma Yip Yann

Gardunia, Michaela Marie

Garner, Tucker James

George, Isabelle

Gilliland, Conner James

Glennon, Caroline Elizabeth

Gonzalez Lopez, Jason

Auburn High School

Goodenough, Joseph Peter

Gordon, Mary Jacqueline

Gordon, Micah David

Gowan, Lila Reese

Graham, Jackson Reed

Gran, Lucy Grace

Granberry, Coleman Hayes

Grant, Jacob Scott

Gray, Blaire Cecilia

Gray, Hope Leighton

Greathouse, Caroline Lilliann

Greene, Bailey Elizabeth

Greene, Peter Rollins

Greene, Rian Kendi

Griffin, Elisabeth Grace

Griffin, William Charles

Griffith, Pierce Butler

Grooms, Spencer Addison

Gruver, Jillian June

Gruver, Sloan Elizabeth

Gullatte, Jalen Demond

Gulsby, Maggie Grace

Gutierrez, Saneya Naima

Ha, Byeonghun

Hackett, Zephaniah Sha’ron

Halbrook, Hannah Grace

Hames, Frank Baker

Hamilton, Diamond Alexis Michael

Hamilton, Lily Grace

Hammer, Evelyn Beth

Hancock, Augustas Maverick

Haney, Sheldon Alan

Hansell, Reese McMilion

Hanson, Tyler Reece

Hardee, Cooper Daniel

Hardin, Maxwell Lee

Harris, CeCorious Jessiah

Harris, Claire Brooks

Harris, Devin Antwaine

Harris, Madison Elizabeth

Hartnett, Bradley

Hatfield, Clyde

Hawthorne, Connor William

Hayden, MaryDell

Hayes, Zachary Alan

Hayslip, Elijah Bryan

Hearns, Darrion Tyshawn

Hearon, Cali Mist

Hennessey, Caroline Grace

Herren, Jayla Simone

Herrera Gomez, Sherly Clariza

Herring, Hannah Jane

Hickman, Maxton Kade

Hickox, Addison

Higginbotham, John Brooks

Hill, Katherine Ryan

Hollenbeck, Nolan Bryce

Holley, Yates Wilson

Holmes, Matthew Scott

Holt, Jackson Cooper

Hong, Elena

Hong, Juyeon

Hong, Seoyeon

Hooper, Nathaniel James

Howard, John

Howell, Tristen Michelle

Hudson, JackRobert

Huff, Parks Brandon

Hughley, Ja’Corey Lamar

Hwang, Joseph

Hyde, Mary Grissom

Jackson, Emma Presley

Jackson, Jordan Len

Jackson, Quinnya Kimarri

Jacoway, Emma Grace

James, Paige Marie

James, Payton Monique

Jaye, Kaley Lillian

Jenkins, Omarion Devon

Jenkins, Ryan Christopher

Jennings, Christasia Anise

Jeon, Kijong

Jeong, Michelle Faith

Jeong, SeungYeon

Jessie, Maharani Raiyne

John, Omari Paul

Johndrow, Alli Ann

Johnson, Josie Saralyn

Johnson, Leah Anne

Johnson, Z’mirah Denise

Joiner, Bradyn Dean

Jones, Joslyn Cara

Jones, Mariah Denise

Jordan, Noah James

Jordan, Saylor Evan

Josephson, Marcellus Frank

Joyner, Jamiya Aleeshi’ann

Juena, Faiza

Jung, Jiho

Jung, Woojin

Kamprad, Alyssa Marie

Kelly, Cairli Johanna

Kett-Eubanks, Tegan

Key, Caroline Anne

Key, Eleiona Talysiah

Khan, Sarah

Kiani, Gabriella Elise

Kim, Byeongyun

Kim, Christine Jina

Kim, Dongwan

Kim, Haram

Kim, Junseong

Kim, Michelle Henah

Kim, Min Seo

Kim, Minpyo

Kim, Tei Lucas

Kim, Timothy Junyong

Kim, Yunji

Kindell, Glenn III

King, Andrew Carlos

Kirkland, Kaleb Whitler

Kitchens, Jaelene Alecia

Kleiner, Abbott Lucile

Ku, Jenny Jahee

Kwon, Nahyun

Langford, Lauren Brown

Lankford, Elizabeth Jewell

Lawhorn, Sean

Le, Leyna Kim

Ledbetter, Silas James

Ledbetter, Walker Mills

Lee, Benjamin Rex

Lee, Chrystal Yujin

Lee, Eunseo

Lee, Hyeongju

Lee, Jaewon

Lee, Seung Won

Lee, Suckchan

Lee, Yumin

Ley, Avery Grace

Liles, Landon Anthony

Liu, Yixin

Lockhart, Azya Elyse

Lombardo, Lillee Belle

Long, Collin Andrew

Long, Piper Nicole

Lothrop, Grady Cole

Lucas, Abby Evelyn

Lwasa, Jazelle Lauren

Lyons, Jacob Elijah

Macklin, Kiley Rose

Mahjouri, Naeim

Majdalani, George Edward

Mancuso, Nicholas Gavin

Mansel, Jacob Connor

Marchetti, Silvia

Marlow, Chapman Alexander

Marshall, Huntley Elizabeth

Massey, Madelyn Julia

Maxwell, Caleb Alan

McCall, Anthony Isaiah

McCall, Mallory Lauren

McClain, Niesha Nathalene

McClary, Charlotte Grace Holland

McClendon, Elizabeth Anne

McClendon, John Buckley

McCurry, Charles Patrick

McDade, Jeremiah Okezie

McGowan, Shary’a Andre’a

McGuire, Kamil Avery Nevaeh

McGuire, Madeline Blair

McKelvy, James Thomas

McKitrick, Zachary Oliver Michael

McMullin, Sommah Alexia

McNeil, Madison Michelle

McWhorter, Price Townes

Meadows, Grace Anne

Meadows, Samuel Evan

Medina Perez, Yajaira Yvonne

Menchion, Kaelen

Milenkovitch, Ava Rebecca

Mitchell, Javious Barshad

Mixson, Abigail Kay

Mixson, Rachel Jane

Molina, Angelina Nicole

Monroe, Akyla Vonte

Moon, Noah Jacob

Moore, Jack William

Moore, Justin Cameron

Moran, Daisy Dayanara

Morgan, Piper Delanie

Mousallam, Hannah Elsayed

Moyer, Addison Nicole

Mullen, Maddox Anne

Mullen, Maya Abegail

Mulliner, Chelsea Rae

Mun, Geonwoo

Munoz, Estela Alicia

Murphey, Daniel Sawyer

Myers, Emma Grace

Nane, Yagmur Sena

Nash, Hana Elizabeth

Nash, Tamarah Shalom

Nawrot, Thomas Jason

Nay, Robert Brockwell

Nelms, Jaekwan Tykel

Neloms, William Chase

Nelson, Riley Marie

Nemeroff, Max Gray

Newman, Amelia Grace

Newman, Madison May

Nguyen, Bang Bang Ly

Nguyen, John

Nichols, Emma Claire

Nolasco Perez, Billy Rocael

Norton, Jace Bernard

O’Bryant, Aubrey Blair

O’Neill, Ruarc Francis

Odom, Laney Elizabeth

Oelmann, Allison Margaret

Oh, Brandon H.M.

Oh, Suyeon

Olsen, Ethan Taylor

Olvey, Taylor Lynn

Orton-Mackenzie, Ashdyn Ray

Ostrander, Sean Michael

Overton, Anna Grace

Ozley, Alexander Daniel

Packer, Lacie Grace

Park, Bryn

Park, Hyeonsu

Park, Seoyeon

Park, Seoyeon

Parker, Aaliyah Ne’shay

Parker, Blye Adams

Parker, Bryson Tyree Jamar

Parker, Mary Ann

Parker, Rosemary Molette

Parnell, Thomas Jeffrey

Paszek, Katherine Mary

Pate, Ellie Brooklyn

Patel, Darsh Ajay

Auburn High School

Patel, Kush P.

Patrick, Amyah Janae

Patrick, Eric Orlando Jr.

Payne, Nathanael

Pearson,Catherine Taite

Pearson, Maxwell Greene

Pearson, Zacchaeus Tyrell

Pegues, Dylan Crews

Perez, Ramiro Patricio

Pettis, Winston Tucker

Pillot, Mya Shelaney

Piner, Catrell J.

Pitt, Jackson Edward

Pittman, Clyde Andrew

Pitts, Cavon Janard

Pledger, Brittany Auburn

Pliego, Villa Celina

Powell, Matthew Justin

Powell, Tayler Nicole

Price, Dawson Gabriel

Prince, Benjamin Travis

Qin, Sean Peng

Rabren, Elizabeth Star

Rabren, Jackson Cade

Ray, Brayden Edward

Ray, TyDrevious OBryan

Reeder, Connor David

Reese, Charles Anthony

Reese, Jordan Michael

Reese, Mar’Nasia De’Nese

Reese, Rachel Ann

Ren, Jon

Reuss, Andrea Kathleen

Reyes, Alan

Rich, Allyson Michelle

Riese, Ryan James

Riles, Jackson McLain

Riles, Julian Everett

Rivera-Toles, Cinsere

Ro, Juwon

Robbins, Anivea Lauryn

Roberson, Holly Shields

Roberts, Adesmond Montreal Jr.

Roberts, Adre’Onna Patrice

Roberts, Allison Elizabeth

Roberts, Andrew Nelson

Roberts, Emma Kate

Roberts, Emma Grace

Roberts, John Michael

Roberts, Tucker Adam

Robertson, Jackson Grice

Rodriguez, Stella Maris

Roel, Jacob Andrew

Rogers, Charles Hudson

Rogers, Kornelius Devin

Rohling, Chapman Dean

Rose, Malik William

Roughton, Anna Charles

Rowe, Randall Patrick

Rush, Eleanora Jane

Sacco, Mallory Elizabeth

Salazar Ortiz, Yudiana

Sampson, Jake Robert

Sanchez, Fabiola Anahi

Sanchez, Alvarez Jacob

Sanders, Hope Lina

Sanderson, William Trant

Sanford, William Peyton

Sayegh, Sannad Ayman

Scales, Parker Jace

Scarborough, Truett Jackson

Scharf, Grayson David

Schindler, Michelle Louise

Schmacker, Elizabeth Brennan

Schultz, Kyleigh Marie

Schutt, Carter Thomas

Schwadron, Alexia Kaitlyn

Scott, Ja-Mae Dameisha

Seale Esposito, Kate Marie

Seale Esposito, Nicole Eleanor

Seale Esposito, Olivia Grace

Sella, Shai Libi

Sellers, David Jackson

Seok, Hyeseo

Seonwoo, Young

Sessions, Anna Grace

Sewell, Sarah Michelle

Seymour, Elizabeth Bríain

Shafi, Zarraf

Shellehamer, Johnathan David

Shen, Kaicheng Leo

Shiflet, Blake Austin Glenn

Shin, Justin Dongho

Sikes, Jessica Caitlin

Sim, Sojung

Simersky, Jackson Rush

Singh, Jaspreet

Sirico, Emma Reese

Situmorang, Emmanuel Stevevai

Skipworth, Seth Ephraim

Smith, Christopher Oleg

Smith, Jonah Scott

Smith, Joseph Boykin III

Smith, Lauren Taylor

Smith, Naomi Troi

Snyder, Bianca Pearl

Son, Juhyun

Song, Sehyun

Soto-Morales, Elman Iram

Sparks, Wesley Blake

Spinks, Larico Marquis Jr.

Spratlin, Campbell Lynn

Stancil, Shelby Michelle

Stanley, Colin

Stark, Christina Nicole

Starr, Jackson Holder

Steiner, William Keyes

Stelt, William Rylee

Stenson, Dillian Markee

Stephenson, Timberly Brietta

Stone, Emma Louise

Stone, Leslie Carole

Storm, Jayna Charlcey

Story, Kameiyah J’lexis

Streetman,Aaron Kyle

Struble,Olivia Catherine

Sumner, Parker Ridge

Sutterer, Corinna Hope

Tabor, Robert William

Tameru, Bethlehem

Taylor, Caroline Elizabeth

Taylor, Lucy Victoria

Tennant, William Claude

Terry, Jenna Nicole

Thai, Phong Quoc

Thomas, Cross Harper

Thomas, Tavarris Deshaun

Thomas, Travontez Zyrion

Thompson, Frank Harrison

Thompson, Madelyn Gail

Thornell, Chase Pershing

Thornton, Madysen Lynlee

Thrash, Finlay Danielle

Tinsley, Rosemary Bailey

Tippins, Ella Grace

To, Anh Hong

Todd, Danarius Rayquan Jr.

Toland, Mark Andrew

Tolbert, Shaun Alexander

Tole, Olivia Grace

Tomasello, Collin Elijah

Torres, Ryan Nicholas

Townsend, Jaylen B’Nard

Trammell, Lulie Virginia

Tran, Lena Nhi

Traylor, KayLeon La’khi

Trish, Ayat Abdussalam

Truett, Amy Eileen

Truong, Kayla

Tucker, Layne McKinley

Turner, Miranda Bailey

Tzou, Benjamin

Vail, Marie Allison

Vallez, Olivia Camille

Vasconcelos, Debora

Perigolo

Von Gal, Elizabeth Skye

Vongsaly, Bryan Bounthasone

Wade, Bailey Houston

Wages, Tanner Boyd

Wagner, Danny Wayne Jr.

Wagner, Jay Morris

Walker, Jaden D’ Cartier

Walker, Millie Britton

Walker, Riley Thomas

Walker, William David

Wall, Quintin Xavier

Walley, Todd Mitchell

Walz, Jacob Paul

Ward, William Harry III

Ware, KristiAnna Verita

Warman, Christopher Ben

Warren, Amarion Mykal

Warren, Moriah Danielle

Waters, Hallston Price

Watson, Harper Rylee

Watts, Isaiah William

Webb, Ansley Aniyah

Weekfall, Justin Taylor

Welch, Asia Gabrielle

Weng, Rachel

West, Kipp Caleb

Wheat, Ceaira Nikol

Whisenant, Jacob William

Whitcomb, Charlee Marie

Elizabeth

Whyte, Clintin Jedidiah

Wieck, Sadie Jorgensen

Wiggins, Nicole Kailani

Wigginton, William Wesley

Wilkerson, Delacey Raine

Willett, Anna Grace

Williams, Bianca TaKiyah

JaKari

Williams, Brayden Keith

Williams, Da’Vaioun Bryant

Williams,DaMarah TaNaya

JaKyri

Williams, Demarcus Jamar

Williams, Jackson Paul

Williams, James Owen

Williams, Jeffery Terrell

Williams, Montreall

Williamson, Daven Rowell

Wilson, Charles Donald

Wilson, Elizabeth Gertrude

Wilson, Jordan Taylor

Wilson, Madison Rea

Winchester, Miracle Naportia

Wisdom, Hope Hampton

Witt, Schaffer Thomas

Wood, Olivia Grace

Woods, Jeremiah Leon

Woods, Joshua Reed

Wright, Daniel Alexander

Yancey, LaPrecious Kaliyah

Yancey, Tyquese Kalie

Yancey-Kidd, Milan Dakota

Yarbrough, Carlin Virginia

Yates, Jackson Troyce

Yates, Kaitlyn Diane

Yeo, Jaewon

Yoon, Junseo

Yost, Grant Jacob

Young, Andrew Justice

Young, Bradley David

Young, Mercy Reese

Young, Thomas Graham

Yun, Sohyun

Zahed, Rohed

Zanzot, Violet Midi

SALUTING THE CLASS OF 2023!

As a community bank, we not only serve our communities, but our communities serve us. They are where we live, work, play, worship, and raise our families—where our children are educated and prepared to make their own mark in the world. Pictured here are children or grandchildren of some of our employees. Along with other area seniors, they will be graduating this spring. AuburnBank recognizes their hard work in achieving this milestone on their journey to adulthood. And for us, honoring these students is personal—the same way we do business.

We celebrate these seniors like they’re our very own ...because they are.

Pictured from left to right: Spirit Crawford, Tallassee High; Kayla Burrell, Valley High; Aaron Streetman, Auburn High; Carlee Fuller, Benjamin Russell; Genesis Bailey, Auburn High; Cullen Kennedy, Valley High

Beauregard High School

Bailey Abernathy

Logan Ballew

Rylee Barker

JaQualen Barnes

Abby Barrett

Ally Barrett

Nicholas Bell

Trace Berry

Whitney Bess

Jaydon Broadwater

Elliott Brown

Mary-Claire Brown

Anakin Butler

Qy’Des Calloway

Zachary Carpenter

Kaleb Cheatwood

Jacob Clark

Kaleb Coe

Virginia Cox

Trapper Crowder

Devin Daniel

Walter Daniels Jr.

Austin Davis

Carter Dees

Haleigh Dennison

Kaitlyn Dotson

Dakota Duke

Oscar Duran

Akaylin Echols

Madalynn Feltz

Thaddeus Fields

Diamond Flinn

Caden Flournoy

Nathaniel Focht

Austin Fralic

Alyson Galloway

Christopher Gamble II

Katelis Graham

Clayton Griffith

Erica-Lee Harman

Jaden Hayes

Eddie Hayes Jr.

Landen Hodges

Madison Hollingsworth

Braxton Hughes

Emilly Isaula-Salgado

Minka Isom

Jalyn Johnson

Jorlyn Johnson

Kadence Jones

Addison King

Sabrina Robinson

Haley Lawler

Jessica Lawler

Thomas Lawrence III

Kambrie Ledbetter

Skye Lee

Ty Lindsay

Destiny Long

Kaitlin Lott

Kalina Love

Adrian Maddox

J’Davion Maddox

Kyan Maloy

Alexander Martin

Aidan McAnally

Austin McConnell

Brock McCoy

Riley McLeod

Chalexus Moore

Jaxon Morris

Kinslee Morris

Christian Norton

Winnasia Pitts

Michael Poe

Matthew Rainwater

Kameron Roberts

Tanner Rodgers

Alexis Sanspree

Danielle Scott

Trinity Scott

Olivia Seeley

Kyle Seeley

Samuel Self

Jordan Sheeley

Nia Skieff

John Travis Spraggins III

Konnor Stevenson

Koji Stokes

Ja’Niya Story

Bryson Sumner

Brodie Sumner

Airiyanna Taylor

Alexus Thomas

Jalaiyha Thomas

Zavion Wagner

Kimberly Wall

AJ Wallace II

Kessa Weldon

Stewart Wiggins

Cody Williams

Collin Williams Jr.

Crystal Williams

EmaLeigh Wilson

Riley Wilson

A’jah Wright

Carly Yates

Charlee Yates

Jon Young Jr.

Beulah High School

Jaxon Reid Allen

Robert Caleb Bennett

Christian Ivez Bonilla

Kyndal Cheyenne Bowling

Caleb James Burton

Rachel Aaliyah Ellashay Butler

Monica Michelle Calloway

Quin’Asia Desmonique Calloway

Christopher Bryant Carmack

Savanna Michelle Clements

Savannah Marie Coulter

Jenniffer McKenzey Coxwell

Benjamin Kelly Darnell

Hardy Gregory Davies III

Malory Morgan Davies

Alyssa Kay Drummonds

Amya Lashay Dunn

Gavin Thomas Ellington

Shayla Ashlynn Faulk

Blake Alexander Fitzgerald

Conor Raymond Gauntt

Jerrick Landon Hamby

Jaxon Manning Hancock

Jania Louise Hartley

Audrey Claire Hartzog

Noah Seth Higdon

Kaleb Mathew Hood

Garret Thomas Howell

Sydney Abigail Hudson

Destiny Joy Karch

Jasmine Marie Karch

Trinity Faith Karch

Presley Jadden Keith

Janay Leigh Kile

Grace Denise Lumpkin

Cathryn Lily McDonald

Jaecobey Andrew McNeil

Tymesha Renae Miles

Cadence Celeste Newton

Destiny Faith Oates

Brandy Shea Phillips

Christopher James Phillips

Kyra Lee Pike

Dessy Gabriella Pollard

Madeline Aubrey Potter

Connor James-Cruit Pruett

Haley Marie Reaves

Ellery Ann Reichardt

Ayden Blayne Riley

Sarenity Ella-Sue Riley

Madison Jeanette Rogers

Mason Lee Rogers

Tyler Garrette Schwarz

Jordan James Sellers

Myeshia Sharae Shealey

Bralie Annmarie Smith

Garrett Lawson Smith

Jordan Dale Smith

Leonila Emery Sutton

Brittani Jean Thrift

Kylie Denise Traylor

Destiny Tierra Truitt

Essence Mary Uzzle

Carter Lane Vallia

Emma Claire Walker

Saralye Rose West

Gabriel Malachi Whitlow

Faith Ambria Whitmer

Lila Lashea Williams

Brandi Nicole Williamson

Jason Lee Wilson

Julianna Elizabeth Graceson Wittig

Glenwood School

Andrews, Joseph

Anthony, Tripp

Ballard, Dylan

Banks, Jamarkest

Barker, Caleb

Bass, Whitnie Sue

Beck, CJ

Brown, Alana

Burton, Aaron

Chandler, Presten

Childs, Layton

Clark, Katy

Coger, Owen

Coleman, Chancellor

Corbett, Colten

David, Ashlynn

Davis, Jackson

Dawson, Taylor

Devaughn, Eli

Edwards, Pierce

Fodor, Patrick

Gillispie, Simone

Graham, Ben

Green, Andrew

Griggs, Lane

Hardy, Ashton

Head, Emma

Hodges, Silvey

Holman, Lukas

Hopkins, Parker

House, Trent

Humphrey, Maci

Hurd, Jaxon

Hutchinson, Trandon

Irvin, Mason

Jones, Katie

Kennon, Jackson

Korytoski, Owen

Lancour, Landon

Mccorkle, Ryan

Milam, Jaxon

Oakland, Jackson

Osborn, Griffin

Page, Jacob

Patterson, Annsley

Porterfield, Tyler

Rosier, Meg

Russell, Camryn

Sayles, Trinity

Shelton, Taylor

Shirley, Hope

Solis, Jenna

Stinson, Riley

Terry, Raegan

Tharpe, Wyatt

Thompson, Kylee

Thompson, Nicholas

Vincent, Alexander

Wadkins, Tyler

Walker, Brayden

Wilkerson, Wyatt

Williams, Reese

Lee-Scott Academy

Arnold, Ella

Bailey, Allison

Baker, Jacob

Barnes, Kyle

Burnett, Conner

Bush, Dalan

Cash, Alex

Chappell, Sarah

Cochran, Landry

Daugherty, Lauren

Davis, Mary Oliver

Dearing, Ryan

Denson, Quinn

Esquivel-McKinnon, Maya

Fields, Christopher

Fuqua, Trey

Greenleaf, Charlie

Guy, Drew

Horne II, Joseph

Hudson, Kade

James, Angus

James, Sig

Joiner, Lindsey

Keller, Hannah

Kennefick, Cason

Ketchum, Grayden

Kiker, Kalli Rose

Lake, Emily

Lane, Philips

Lanier, Pete

Larkin, Jacob

Leatherman, Luke

Little, Pearson

Marlin, Austin

Martin, Chandler

McCrary, Ben

Meyers, George

Miller, Conor

Mitchum, Sadie

Moon, Bryson

Moore, Brendon

Pelham, Blair

Persons, Lauren

Piper, Skylar

Reeves, Janie

Rosebrock, Evie

Roughton, Aisha

Simmons, Kimberly

Sprayberry, Hutch

Starr, Conner

Stewart, Kaitlyn

Stiles, Axl

Temple III, Tripp

Thompson, Emma

Thornton, Katie

Truitt, Trent

Weissinger, Payne

Whittington, Thomas

Wilson, Kyle

Wood, Grayson

Loachapoka High School

Blackmon, Issaih Marquez

Blackmon, Xavier Deionte

Casaday, Brandon Thomas

Casaday, Christian Adam

Chenier, Myana Michelle

Cobb, Treyvion Tyshawn Jarvea’

Dowdell, Nicolas Adrian

Duran Flores, Ruben

Foster, Jabari Kaison

Garcia Duran, Deisy Karely

Guzman, Gustavo Adolfo

Harris, Joseph Dechean

Hart, JaCorious Jamar Isaiah

Jay, Renee Lynn

Jenkins, Melody Autumn

Jones, Adriana La’Shun

Key, Khamani Martrez

Lockhart, Gabrielle Lashanti

McGowan, Ariana Bre’Nay

Menafield, Tyarious Za’Quan

Montgomery, Montavis Deontae

Moore, Ja’Saveion Oniyis Tareik

Moore, Nadia Kalis

Murph-Dowdell, Taylah

Alexzandreah

Oliver, Mya Nadayja

Orozco, Dana Sharay

Osornio, Marco Antonio

Padron, Ivan

Palmer, Ga’Kuan Mandrell

Philpot, Marcus LaQuez

Rojas-Guevara, Luis-Mario

Rudolph, Jordan Sherquan

Salazar Arenas, Alejandra

Satterwhite, Jamaroun Dayshun

Shealey, Jantasia Tisean

Tatum, Kemiah LaFannie

Tomas Romero, Evelyn

Webb, Dontae James

Wiseman, Cheyanne Janae-Marie

Wright, Kei’Ericka Denesha

Go Indians!

Class of 2023

Class of 2023

Opelika High School

Elizabeth Anne Abbett

Edgar Alcantara Jr.

Kevin Jose Acosta Alvarez

Alondra Alfaro

Dontarius Jamaal Alvis

Meagan McCall Alvis

Sarai Ambrosio-Perez

Garrien Terell Ambus

De’Aija Arrianna Anderson

Laterean Nevaeh Kilundra Andrews

NyLah Anne Ausborn

Ca’Norria Vernae Avery

Matthew Spencer Awbrey

Amelia Martha-Ruth Aycock

Leah Rosemarie Bales

Jacob Keith Banks

Angel Joshua Barajas-Desantos

Tarence Andre Barrow Jr.

Emily Faith Bearden

Kennedy Tayelor Jackerra Beaton

Blair Shannon Belcher

Timothy Lamar Bell Jr.

Qwayeshun Leon Bentley

Janinne Yamilet Bernal Florida

Leah Gabrielle Bethea

Margaret Irene Bice

Alli Anne Blythe

Linsey Cerilyn Boies

Robert Mason Brasher

Keon Carvell Brazier

Charles Harris Brewer III

MeKhiron O’Patrick Brock

Amiya Zaray Brown

Ella Payton Brown

Kahmya Janiese Bufford

Za’Meria Alexis Butler

Alan Cabrera

Jeffery Edward Cahill

Lunden Davis Campbell

Chloe Morgan Capps

Jhomarria LaJoi Card

Jaylen Isaiah Carlton

Ella Ann Carney

Seth Logan Carpenter

Dylan McKenzie Carroll

Matthew Evan Carson

Mariska Lee Chambers

Knox Harrison Chase

Emma Elizabeth Childs

Caleb Bradley Chisum

Nathaniel Wayne Ezra Churches Jr.

Roy Cisneros Tirado

Kaleb Miguel Clark

Carissa Ann Cofield

Bianca MaKenzly Cole

Jayda Michelle Coleman

Le’Travius KeyShaun Coleman

Guadalupe Liseth Colorado-Vera

Kyden Zoria Cook Williams

Ethan Adam Cooper

Kaden Bishon O’RienIke’ Cooper

Mallory Larsen Cooper

Morgan Ryan Cooper

Austin Jeffery Copeland

Susannah Peyton Couey

N’Kayla MeShaye Covington

Kalis Alexandria Cox

Raina Josephine Elizabeth Curtis

Patience Alexandria Daniel

Cherdi Tysharya Daniels

Antaysha Tamyra Dankins

Hannah Janet Davenport

Robin Dana Davis-Williamson

Elizabeth Mei Dawe

Walfre Ronaldo De León López

Katelyn Deanna Dixon

Jaleigha Alise Doolittle

Kaiden Burton Dowdell

I’yonna De’Nai Dowell

Jackion Marque Drake

Kamaurie Devon Drisker

Shamiracle Ann Dunn

D’Mikal L’Darius Echols

Jaquaveous Andrew Edwards

Mackenzie Elizabeth Elvira

Atitus Mekhi Evans

Nathan Andrew Faison

N’zahri Gabrielle Fanning

Shakyya Elise Farmer

Kylin Jajuan Fears

Kele Sombrae Ferrell

Taylor Awbrey Fields

Lily Clare Flannagan

Mitchell Scott Flenniken

Zameah Samone Foote

Arthur Elsmore Forbes II

Joseph Terrell Foreman Jr.

Antwone Keuntriel Frazier

Sacaria Nicole Frazier

Jakey Gabino Bazan

Dalton Chase Gann

William Colton Garner

Kadiri Kambrion Gates

Octavious Jamar Gay

Carter James Gerber

Tayson Mekhi Gibbs

Javia Elise Glass

Elena Janae Gonzalez

Landon Wayne Grace

James Dexter Graham II

Alaysja Nakelle Greer

Karla Anabell Guerra

Kiana Elise Gunn

Kayden Aeris Guy

Ann Marie Halverson

Wesley Tyler Hamilton

Amauria Jaliyah Hann

Thomas Champion Hardegree

Ja’Brian Leon Harris

Qualik JaQuan Harry

QuNique Janae Harry

Michael Hart III

Tristan Arkel Hart

Mikeil DeAngelo Heard

A’zhara Reneé Heath

Trent Robert Henderson

Linley Paige Henry

Rumi Iskay Heredia

Natalie Grace Hickman

Kashanti Ja’Mya Hill

Ashley Payne Hilyer

Kiara Marie Hinds

Charles Omarion Hodge

Ja’Kayla Mo’Nae Holiday

Indiana Nytiese Holloway

Georgia Jean Hoover

Derinda Nolita Hoyett

Theo Jamal Hubbard

Shamyria Jonae Hughley

Caleb Xavian Jackson

Kenley Ann Jackson

Quiahrah MaKayla Jackson

Alexis Olay Rain James

Cameron Ro Johnson

Jemiyha Janae Johnson

Keyanna Janae’ Johnson

Saniya Ashea Johnson

Damiya Evette Jones

Demond JaQuan Jones

Ja’Kaiya Nabrea Jones

Kimberly La’Niyah Jordan

Dasia Ilaine Keith

Loyalty Najay Kindred

Norah Catherine King

Ally Nichole Kinser

Cheyanne Louise Kleinhoffer

Jamiyah Tykashia Knight

Stephen Isaiah Knight

Sean Alexander Kwandou

Zayne Ryan Lackey

Kendyl Alexandria LaGrand

Caiden Scott Lawler

Ke’Aja Dalanni Lee

Lauren Shelby Lee

Miguel Leon Lares

Taryn Kenedi Lewis

Shaniya Lasha Little

Amauria Jamon Lockhart

Rylee Joy Long

Amaya Nicole Love

Zoie Miciah Love

Dominic Jose Lujan

Memoree Ahmier Lyles

Kason Levi Martichuski

Ja’Kalen TyKell Martin

Rileigh Cayden McBride

Rashun Jarrell McCants

Charles Bryant McCullough

Keldin JaCari McCurdy

Shanese Roxccell Antterria

McGhee

Luke Patrick Osborne McGinnis

Jared Douglas McKay

Justin Robert McKemie

Ensleigh Faith McSpadden

Princess Chaky’a Tyshuum

Meadows

Kevin Daniel Mendez-Chilel

Johnny Salomon Mendoza

Garcia

Esmer Isrrael Merida

Jamiya Michelle Mills

Kailyn Grace Minnifield

Nehemiah Damon Moore

Kasman Alayah Moss

Jacob Damond Nelms

JaMarion Shemar Nelms

Gabriel Benjamin Nelson

Marshall Cole Nelson

Andrew Garland Nicholson

Esther Mae Nicholson

Nasah Anne Nimmons

Juanita Frances Nix

La’Miracle Brenae Nobles

Alexis Lellian Norris

Casino Phuntae Norwood Jr.

Katelynn Ann-Marie Nowell

Estefani Nunez

Qua’Mir Al’jahaad Olgletree

Kevin Antonio Oliver Jr..

Elisha Izrael Oyola

Ajaden Khalil Parham

Ava Grace Parker

Morgan Nancy Parker

Taleah Makaila Parker

Harsh J. Patel

Tahjmir Kevin Patten

Tirus Dani Patten

Javon Marcelous Pendleton

Jabari Ny’Kel Perry

JaClarence LaKevious Perry

Sincere Sallah Peterson

Stantayvious Naquan Phillips

Taliayah Tasmine Pickett

Ashleigh Simone Pitts

Opelika High School

Pedro Prado

Garrett Heston Pugh

Martha Elizabeth Pugh

Diana Gabriela Ramirez

Tyson Seth Randall

Colby Shane Rathel

Izayrius Markel Ray

Aaliyah Deanna Nicole Reese

Ronald Reese Jr.

Emily Grace Christine Rezek

Logan Trapper Richmond

Keely Lynn Rider

Kyle Michael Roberts

Luke Michael Roberts

Areli Roblero-Diaz

Julieta Monserrat Rodriguez Garcia

Dora Marina Rodriguez Velazquez

Bunker Guy Rohrbaugh

Trinity Dannel Rooks

Trameisha Shaneace Ross

Bradley Kyle Royster

Kendarius Da’Shawn Sewell

Damia Breanna Seymour

Zalen Tarel Shaw

Maria Antoinette Shelton

Sage Gable Sheppard

William Logan Sheridan

Kaslyn Grace Short

Jamarious Maliek Simpson

Italy Azariah Slaughter

Andre Alexander Smiley

D’Andre Rashaad Smith

Jacob Lucas Smith

Ka’Mia LaShae Smith

Karlie Madison Smith

Kobe’ Markei Smith

Micah Owen Smith

Takarea Cynae Smith

Yurixcy Sotelo-Marin

Bryce Caldwell Speakman

Kaitlyn Christine Spoon

Thomas David Stephens Jr..

Brantaja Carlis Stinson

Kayla Brianna Stoeckel

Ta’lysia Omari Story

Kalie Jade Strickland

Ke’Daijah Markiyah Strickland

Promise Alyssa Strickland

Sanai Malees Stringer

William Dale Stutts

Tara Mari Temples

David Tyler Terry

Jaylan Maria Tettleton

Courtney Michelle Thomas

Destiney Chanel Thomas

Jadah Adiya Thomas

Jamarion Malikhi Thomas

Jaylin Tyreese Thomas

Nylen Elise Thomas

Taylor Janette Thomas

Tykell Terrence Thomas

Ja’Kori Mekhi Thornton

Joshalyn MaKayla Tolbert

Alexandria Isabella Torbert

Lydia Marion Torbert-Green

Paola Lizbeth Torres Morales

Kaylee Paige Traylor

Micah Daniel Tring

Campbell Wesley Turner

Michael Philip Van Horn

Mayuly Vasquez-Mendez

Jennifer Vega-Duran

Allie Ruth Vickers

Josh Vongkhoth

Summer Rain-Mackenzie

Wagner

Crystina AnnRenee’ Waits

Ahmad Ja’Kari Walton

Ariunia Mykasia Ware

Zoe Torres Warren

William Michael Washburn

George A Washington IV

Morgan Alexandria Watts

Janiya Ke’Asia Webb

Andrew James Wells

Sarah Michele Whatley

Tracy Joel White III

Brenton Devaughn Williams

Cadence Jaquitta Williams

Jacob Bass Williams

Reagan Sakari Williams

Holden Clay Williford

Landon TaMichael Vontrell Willis

Shanquancy Johniqius Jentavius Wilson

Kaiden Alijah Woody

Cristopher Jahvay Wright

Jaclynn Marie Yoho

Garner Wyche Young

Karsyn McKay Yountz

Smiths Station High School

Joseph Steverson Abbott

Emmanuel Angelo Adams

Halston David Lawrance Adams

Ryan Gage Adams

Anthony Wayne Thomas Agner

Garielle Leeandra Allen

Olivia Renee Allen

Charity Desiree Alston

Jeff Jaylin Anderson, IV

Domonic Marcus Andrews

Eva Gabriella Arce

DeAndre Lamont Arnold

LeeAnn Maria Bailey

Jenaffer Ryan Bain

Keimyra Myanna Baker

Blaize Miller Bales

Michael Gene Barber

Ayanna Mya Jané Barnes

Cameron Blake Barnes

Kadence Cree Barrick

Leslie Marie Barton

Yelena Yvette Bates

Autumn Nicole Bedsole

Cameron Keshaun Bell

La’Lah Michelle Bellamy

William Waylon Berry

Ja’kobe De’Undra Bibbs

Troy Michael Billingslea

Gracie Belle Binns

Emily Paige Blandin

Madison Reese Blaschke

James Christian Bloodworth

Imanuel Benjamin Bobo

Anna Marie Bonniot

Jarrett Ryan Bonniot

William Nicholas Booker

Marissa Love Bradley

Natalee Marie Bragg

Dustin Michael Brassell

Cooper Sife Bridges

Lori Claire Bridges

Skylar Allan Brooks

Ariana LaMaya Brown

Ethan De’undre Brown

Zachayla Katora Brown

Coby Daniel Brownlee

Jenna Catherine Bruce

Jonas Va Rinzo Randall

Khloey Laen Bryan

Andrew Curtis Bryant

Nathaniel Conrod Burnett

Bryce Evan Burnham

Abigail Hannah Burton

Franklin Evan Bussey

Brad Alexis Bustos-Saucedo

Madison Elizabeth Butler

Grace Marden Buttacavoli

Grayson Wade Caradine

Amarion Fortez Carlisle

Joseph Daniel Carman

Kristen Nicole Carroll

AvA Marie Carter

Maggie Elizabeth Carter

Olivia Dawn Carter

James Leslie Casteel

Rickey Chambers Jr.

Joshua Ryan Childs

Paris Rohanna Chin-sue

Arianna Victoria Cliatt

Kelsi Joe Clotfelter

Zariah Yohaira Cochran

Reagan Elizabeth Coleman

Ajayda Chambrea Cook

D’Liyah Ivyanah Cook

Sydnee Kalyn Cook

Tyesha Fran’sha Cook

Dayshja Markayvia Cooks

Molly Maree Corbett

Noah Christian Cramer

Arlin Blake Crews

Keira Victoria Crocker

Kaeden Jamere Crowell

Jalacia Niesha Curtis

Kadee Destani Daniel

Da’Marion Nantez Davis

Vinicius Novais de Carvalho

Elizabeth Michelle Dempsey

Brendan Jagger Dial

Jules Jade Diamond

Shannon Elizabeth Dickerson

Ayden Thomas Dillender

Katelyn June DiMattia

Alexa Nicole Donaldson

Leslie Nicole Doster

Trysta Brianne Dunbar

Terrell Lamar Dunham Jr.

Allison Shea Dunman

Alyssa Kailyn Dyer

Sophia Patrice Eaton

Akasha Latoya Mo’Nay Edge

Cam’Ron An’Quin Emmannuell Edge

Sophia Rose Eli

Nash Brandon Ellis

Noah Landon Ellis

Joshua Jorrell Elston Jr.

Yaleisha Nicole Espinosa Nieves

Katie Jordan Evans

Jeremiah Daniel Fain

Kadence Ann Faison

McKenzie Orlando Felder

Mary Roslyn Flowers

Jacob Levi Fowler

Brantley Lawrence French

Allie Lynn Frost

Harley Donald Benson Frost

Benjamin Taylor Fugate

Donald Wayne Fuller

Matthew Gideon Fuller

Kaiden Michael Lynn Funk

Emma Marie Galarza

Nataly Garcia

Cameron Trevon Gordon

Mazie Rayne Graham

Brandon Mathewson Green

Jeremiah Jackson Greer

Shelby Phaye Griggs

Layla Kay Grimes

Dustin Shea Grimshaw

Bryanna Rayne Grissett

Benjamin Pacificador Guevarra

Justin Kyle Guisinger

Shawn Brinton Gustavson

Carlos Edilzar Munoz-Guzman

Dayton Stephen Hahn

Billy Wayne Hall Junior

Jakobe Nathaniel Hall

Aubrey Morgane Hallam

Nez Cooper Hamilton

Nathan Banjamin Hamrick

Kelsey Marie Hand

Mason Walker Hare

Savannah Rose Harm

Elizabeth Kay Harp

Victoria Nichole Harrell

Ashley Danielle Harris

Gannon Bernard Harris Jr.

Tamarques Devaughn Harris

Kaden Kloud Hart

Ansleigh Faith Hasty

Savannah Jade Hattaway

Izabella Faye Hawthorne

Mechain Farrel Hayden

Ryan Walter Haywood

Curtis Ty’quan Henderson

Anthony Maurice Hicks

Abbrielle Jonah Higginbotham

Davis Aaron Hill

Jarred Craig Hill

Khristian Alexzander Hill

Pavel Alberto Hnatyshyn

Tahque Maki Hogan

Emily Marie Hogge

Alyssa Jhalil Holloway

Michael James Hooe

Kaley Maria Fay Hopper

Reagan McKenzie House

Phoebe Nicole Huckaby

Jaedward Lamontae Hughley

Bradley Scott Huguley

Ansley Citrine Hull-Odell

Savannah Leigh Hundley

Alexis Lydia Hunt

Ray ‘ Mond Jay Hunter

Caitlyn Elizabeth Huntsman

Lauryn Nicole Huntsman

Dexter Darrel Jackson

Jeffery Arnold Jacobs Jr.

Destiny Cne’ James

Omarion Jefferson

Jacob Braden Johnson

Khani Jamar Johnson

Sebastian Neal Johnson

Amber Alexis Jones

Madison Elizabeth Jones

Ethan James Kelly

Caden Hunter Kennedy

Nicholas Ty Kennington

Alexander Lee King

Georgia Noelle King

Kayla Shanice King

Kaylah Lemya Kitchens

Shawn Michael Kitchens Jr.

Nayethan Dewaine Fredrick Kite

Zoey Kelsie Kite

Emily Louise Kroll

Jacob Virgil Laboy

Linda Lam

Madison Marie Lane

Ashleigh Marie Lansdon

Jacob Eric Lansdon

Payton Murphy Larche

Jason Michael Laughlin

Scott Matthew Lavelle

Glenn Michael Lee

Timothy Nicholas Lee

Sean Christian Lefranc

Brienasia Nevaeh Lewis

Olivia Mae Ligon

Barbara Renate Linn

MacKenzie Jade Liscomb

Andrew James Livingston

Mackenzie Dianne Locklar

Riley Michele Long

Kimberly Briana Denise Lopez

Lanie Paige Louque

Emily Renee Ludwig

Kalibe Cornelius Maddox

Jakyez Dakaine Mahogany

Ray Joseph Malone

JaKaylan Donnell Marshall

Johnathan Darnell Marshall Jr.

Anthony Daniel Masciovecchio Jr.

Carlee Rezondala Mason

Gabriel Alan Mathis

William Joseph Maynard

Conner Michael McAlister

Austin David McCaffrey

Hayden Keith McCart

Bryson Heath McDonald

Smiths Station High School

William Bradley McGonegle

Macie Leigh McNeill

Haylee Jade McVay

Emmett Alexander Meacham

Brooklynn Seairra Melton

Ashton Taylor Michael

Jacob Reese Middleton

Justin Nasir Miles

Christopher Solomon Miller

Daniel James Miller

Elizabeth Nicole Miller

Rilya America Miller

Arabella Grace Mills

Loretta Michelle Mock

Trey Garrett Money

Deareliz Anahi Moody

Ellie Elizabeth Moore

Jasmine Lashay Moore

Nicholas Bryant Moore

Kiah Marquerite Mosley

Hannah Leah Mounce

Dominic James Mrazik

Chrissandra Rose Mullinax

Sean Ethan Mundy

Laila Kim Munoz

Kaleb Ryan Myers

Francisco Valentino Nadeak

Jenna Mae Neal

Nicholas Taylor Netteler

Mekayla Miriam Luz Nevarez

Cameron Brock Nevels

Myiah Marie Hull Nichols

Emily Alice Nicholson

Chloe Ann Niles

Kaidance Michael Ogletree

Kaila Michelle Ogletree

Sebastian Zaine Oseguera

Jacob Landon Oswalt

Evan Heath Owens

Nadia Alexis Pace

Jaiden Jykari Parham

Anvi Bharat Patel

Avi Bharat Patel

Benjamin David Patten III

Christian Tre’von Patterson

Savannah Leigh Paul

Makena Rose Payne

Devyn Gervar Pearman

Trent Russell Pearson

William Cole Pearson

Anna Marie Pennington

Jared Alan Perrine

Auriana Nicole Peters

Oakley Wray Pettis

Chandler David Phillips

Cidney Lynn Pillman

Nevaeh Shaliyah Pointer

Treasure Taini Primas

Catlin Cheyenne Quesenberry

Timothy Samuel Quezada

Mary Elizabeth Quillen

Connor William Ramones

Jovannie Gabriel Ramos Soto

Hailey Kathleen Ramos

Logan Nathaniel Rankin

Jonathan Alan Ray

Robert Keith Ray

Louis Trevon Raymond

Jaykob Taylor Reese

Cameron Adam Reeves

Easton Garrett Renfroe

Hunter Rhianna Reuss

Whitley Jamiracle Reynolds

Skylar McKenzie Richardson

Elijah LaDarius Ricks

Morgan Avery Ritter

Armando Leonardo Rivera

Kimberly Leann Robb

Ivan Robles-Tinoco

Kanyon Luke Rogers

Lorelai Meela Romanishan

Carly Danielle Romero

Jayla Reza Mishawn Russell

Robert Dwayne Sanborn Jr.

Dylan Wayne Sanders

Rahlek Sanders

Taylor Grace Sanders

Savannah Faith Sanford

Xyliah Ja’nique Sanks

Natalie Grace Marie Scrivener

Marshon JC Tom Sellers

Kelsi Michele Sessions

Kindel Mercedes Shedd

Wylie Roy Shomaker

Amy LeAnn Sisk

Kalen Marie McCullar Slocum

Jordan Cail Slouchick

Brandon Wayne Smith

Caitlynn Ciara Smith

Charlie Smith III

Kari Reese Smith

Zachary Ryan Smith

Jayden Miguel Solano

Alyssa Marie Spann

Dani Briane Spillman

Maya Elizabeth Sports

Kayden Patrick Stephens

Koltyn Bryce Stephens

Bradley James Stewart

Dakota Lee Stodghill

Olivia Lynn Strauch

Hailey Blaise Strickland

William Bryce Stringfellow

Hunter Council Strothers

Cohen Blake Studenwalt

Alexia Hallie Suggs

Daquantay Tymarius Swanson

Shelby Elaine Sword

Caleb Price Swords

MaKenlee KayAnn Szot

Brandyce Paige Raguindin

Taitague

Taylor Nicole Tarno

Jasmine Lynn Taylor

T’Nya Lilyon Taylor

Jason Michael Tharpe

Anniston Makynna Thomas

Cian Joseph Thomas

Sebastian Michael Thomas

Anthony Allen Thompson

Jaydon Ahmaad Threatt

Monserrat Tinoco-Hernandez

Paris Nicole Tolar

Lynda Ruby Grace Treadwell

Izayah Fredeluces Tubigon

Kylie Faith Turner

London Elizabeth Van Every

Stone Kenyon Vance

Kevin Gabriel Vega

Mahrneen Ozmin Ventura

Timothy Warren Vodenichar

Caden Fredrick Waldrep

Aliya Brooke Wallace

Ashlyn Brooke Walton

Kylie Marie Ward

Tanesha Marie Warnell

Jha’Myia Naje Koniece Watkins

Skyler Marie Webb

Anna Grace Webster

Amarion Jamal-Reshauwd

Wesley-Hagan

Matthew Alex Westenkirchner

Dontrell Kashun White

Alyssa Anastazie Wilburn

JaMicheal JayQuan

Williams-Key

Indiah Anniyah Renae Williams

Jackson Tyler Williams

Makayla Lenise Williams

Shania Amarilis Williams

Charles Gregory Wills

Haley Nicole Wilson

Braden Winchester

Brianna Marie Wink

Jacob Ryan Zimdahl

congrats! classof’23

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.

PROVERBS 9:10

tcsopelika.org

Trinity Christian School

Caroline Belcher

Gabriel Boone

Blair Burton

Ethan Clark

Cole Coulter

Billy Curran

Caleb Dean

Clara Duncan

Graham Mason

Karley Nelson

Anastasia Rush

Daniel Shropshire

Eliza Simpkins

Bella Taylor

Emily Wright

Alabama Dept. of Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention, 83

Allen Asphalt, 62

AuburnBank, 81

Auburn City Schools, 18

Ballard Pest Management, 27

Beauregard Drugs, 98

Better Bodies Massage Institute, 52

Budget Blinds, 51

Butcher Paper BBQ, 27

City of Auburn, 6

City of Opelika, 55

Closet’s By Design, 3

Day Hair Salon, 5

Dream Day Foundaiton, 63

Edward Jones, 39

Frederick Dean Funeral Home, 72

Glynn Smith Chevrolet-Buick-GMC, 100

Good Karma, 39

Goree’s Furniture Express, 26

Harvest Thrift, 72

Hilyer & Associates, CPAs, 47

HomeLink Realty - Tori Beth Thompson, 92

Huddle House, 6

Jay & Susie Gouge Performing Arts, 68, 69

Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home, 99

Lee County Board of Education, 28

Lee-Scott Academy, 45

Market St. Paint Shop, 27

Meals Chiropractic, 52

O Town, 39

Oline Price, Lee Co. Revenue Commissioner, 11

Opelika City Schools, 53

Orthopedic Clinic, 7

Perception Therapy, 6

Price Small Engine, 36

Sheriff Jay Jones, 73

Simply Media, 27

Southern Union, 71

Stitch Therapy, 98

Summer Village, 52

Sweet Gee’s Restaurant and Catering, 51

Trinity Christian School, 96

Trinity Presbyterian, 39

Tripp Walton Law, 47

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