MAY 2021
Congratulations, Graduates! This summer, come visit the Oconee County Parks!
We offer over 200 campsites three beautiful county parks. Electricity and water at each site, friendly staff, clean restrooms, hiking trails, playgrounds, Lake Keowee and Chauga River access, tent only areas, as well as, large RV sites!
Creating community through people, parks and programs.
SOUTH COVE COUNTY PARK
HIGH FALLS COUNTY PARK
CHAU RAM COUNTY PARK
86 Camping Sites 1 Shelter 1 Recreational Building Boat Ramps 2 Tennis Courts 2 Playgrounds Fishing Pier Lake Keowee All Areas Open Year-Round 8 Pickleball Courts
92 Camping Sites 2 Shelters 1 Recreational Building Boat Ramp Fishing Pier Miniature Golf Playground Softball Field, Volleyball, Basketball & Tennis Lake Keowee Day Use & Lake Access Open Year-Round
28 Camping Sites Primitive Camping Areas 4 Shelters 1 Recreational Building Waterfalls Hiking Trails Chauga Rapids Disc Golf Chauga River Access Open Year-Round (Winter Hours) Camping closed Nov. 20 thru first weekend in March
OCONEE COUNTY South Carolina’s Freshwater Coast www.VisitOconeeSC.com
Congratulations graduates! You have completed the papers, assignments, exams, projects and so much more. You have made it! Now, it’s time to walk onto that high school football field one more time. You walk onto the field as high school students, but you will leave as alumni. It’s an achievement that has taken 13 years to accomplish. Your family and friends are watching and cheering from the stands. You and your classmates are excited. You know full well the work that it took to get here. Enjoy it. You deserve it. These years have been about more than the schoolwork — the lessons, the papers and those dreaded exams. Lifetime friendships have been formed. You and your classmates shared the best of times and the worst of times… at least so far. Some of you have friends that you’ve known since kindergarten, while others have built deep relationships that have only happened in the past four years — maybe just in the last year. The work was challenging, and you were forced to begin thinking about your future. What do you want to do? Who do you want to be? It can be a little scary turning into an adult and trying to figure out what you want to do in life. You grew in other ways, too. High school brought more freedom with a driver’s license for most of you. You had more choices — sports teams, band, clubs, other extra-curricular activities— along with parttime jobs, parties, eating out with friends and maybe even a first date. The last two years have been different for the
MAY 2021
Class of 2021. The cloud of COVID-19 hung over your junior and senior years. At least you have had been able to be in school for your senior year and spend that time with your classmates. Those classmates have been there for you in the good and the hard times. They understood what you were going through because they went through it, too. As you walk across the stage to receive your diploma take a look at those friends, but also look into the crowd in the stands—a father, mother or grandparent, brothers, sisters, other family and friends — waving at you with pride. They have watched you grow through the years and are so proud of you. But as you toss that cap into the air in celebration with the others in the Class of 2021, remember that while this is the end of your high school days, it’s also the beginning of a new stage of your life. You have your whole world in front of you. You will find your own path, have your own career(s), build lifelong relationships that will determine at least in part who you are and what is important to you. There will be mistakes along the way, just like there were mistakes in high school. Learn from them, make things right when you need to and move on. As you walk off that field as a high school graduate, take it in and be grateful for those who have helped you along the way. Then, move forward and meet the challenges you face in the days, months, years and decades to come. Go make your mark in the world. You’re ready.
GRADUATION 2021
THE JOURNAL § 3
Seneca High School
Gregory Adams
Karen Alejo-Sales
Gunnison Alexander
Elyssia B. Anderson
Alyssa Armentrout
Kylie Barnett
Daniel Barrientos Perea
Kylie Barton
Kaleb Bay
Raiyna Bearden
Ashton Black
Christopher Blackwell
Noah Boggs
Ashley Bost
Walker Bowen
Ansley Brock
Nina Brodie
Zackary Brown
Joseph Burgess
Janiyah Burnett
Gabriel Burnside
Ann Marie Butler
Ephesian Butler
Rebekka Byrd-Martin
Andrea Cabanero
Grayden Candler
Berkeley Cannon
Maegan Carpenter
Meredith Carpenter
Joshua Carranza
Keila Carrera
Ryan Castle
Marco Cazares
Jacob Champlin
Elizabeth Chandler
Bella Chitty
Kennedi Coker
Kaitlyn Cole
Grayson Cook
Bailey Crane
Beau Crocker
Amiyah Davis
4 § THE JOURNAL
GRADUATION 2021
MAY 2021
Seneca High School
Dylan Day
Milcah Dela Caza
Emily Derrick
Joel Diaz
Nicholas Dodd
Johnny Dong
Destiny Doyle
Emma Edwards
Lonnie Elliott
Briana Epps
Ta’liyah Etheridge
Jahzuby Fajardo
Mason Fassino
Drake Ferraro
Mikayla Finley
Blythe Foster
Sani Frank
Destiny Glenn
Dylan Goodine
Hunter Hackett
Kaitlyn Halliwell
Kira Hamm
Austin Hargrove
Evan Hautala
Jordan Haynes
Matthew Heath
Timothy Hipskind
Camden Holbrooks
Dera Holbrooks
Brayden Holland
Tanara Holland
Hadley Hughes
Jazmine Hughes
Kimberley Hunsberger
Abrieal Hunter
Joshua Ickes
Brandon Jaimes
Malakai Jenkins
Lukas Johnson
Kara Justus
Lance Kates
Melanie Kemp
MAY 2021
GRADUATION 2021
THE JOURNAL § 5
Seneca High School
Zariha Land
Zackery Lanning
Ava-Grace Lathrop
Kayla Law
Cameron Laye
Justyn Lazu Garcia
Levi Leard
Colton Lee
Zybre Lee
Quayvon Lewis
Jason Lott
Zachery Lucht
Shanda Lusk
Deandra Martin
Makenzie Martin
Moises M. Herrera
Elijah Massey
Kayle Massey
Jordan Mauldin
Terrance McCauley
Aniston McKee
Peyton McRoberts
Sarah Mendoza
Khy Meyers
Isaak Miller
Mary Mimms
Haylee Moncus
Charles Moody
Katelyn Moore
Madison Moore
Samuel Muszynski
Thomas Nation
Maya Nemr
Marlaina Nichols
Jadiss Nicholson
Cassidy Nix
Brittany Orosco
Kloe Owens
Miriam Pelcastre
Megan Pitman
Wesley Pitts
Alejandro Ponce
6 § THE JOURNAL
GRADUATION 2021
MAY 2021
Seneca High School
Pamela Poole
Xavier Pruitt
Salihah Ragwar Hayes
Yaminah Ragwar Hayes
Ryan Ray
Jackson Raymark
Justin Richey
Christopher Richins
Roberto Rivera
Eric Robinson
Victoria Robinson
Lauren Rochester
Cesar Rodriguez
Jared Rogers
Jadyn Ross
Shreya Santhanam
Alyssa Scott
Kolby Scruggs
Logan Sears
Janezia Seay
Isabella Shaw
James Shaw
Kentavious Shorter
Tyler Shoun
Jenna Smith
William Smith
Bailey Solesbee
Bettina Solesbee
Emily Sosebee
Joshua Stewart
Jacari Teague
Raygan Teeter
Alexis Thomason
Zackery Thomason
Rayshad Thompson
Carson Towe
Mason Treadway
Ariean Tucker
Dariean Tucker
Brady Turner
Colin Turner
Reagan Turner
MAY 2021
GRADUATION 2021
THE JOURNAL § 7
Seneca High School
Haleigh Turpin
Niara Virgil
Joanna Walden
Bailey Walters
Haley Webb
Brooke Werst
Holly Whaley
Cameron White
Molly Williams
Rylee Williams
Mary Wilson
Ronald Winchester
Natalie Windham
Kyleigh Wood
Abigail Worley
Damon Worley
Sonja Olivia Worley
Emmelyn Wynn
Kylie Yingst
Nitaysha Young
Lydia Zeller
Is now the time for a gap year? Uncertainty has reigned over many students for the last year-plus. As the COVID-19 virus spread across the globe, schools were forced to transition to virtual learning. Some did so full-time, while others offered hybrid learning plans that combined virtual learning with in person instruction. Confronting that transition proved exhausting for parents and educators, but students also could not be blamed if they felt a little academic fatigue as they navigated learning during the pandemic. Students about to graduate from high school or college may be wondering if now isn’t an ideal time to take a gap year. Others may be intrigued by gap years but not be entirely certain what they are. The following information can help students determine if a gap year is right for them. What is a gap year? The Gap Year Association defines a gap year as “a semester or year of experiential learning, typically taken after high school and prior to career or post-secondary education, in order to deepen one’s practical, professional, and personal awareness.” The GYA notes that no two gap years are alike, though the spirit of a gap year is to afford students a chance to expand their comfort zones and have a cross-cultural experience while ensuring they have the time to reflect on those experiences. 8 § THE JOURNAL
Do gap years derail students’ academic careers? Parents might be concerned that a gap year will derail students’ academic careers by decreasing the likelihood that they will ultimately return to school. However, the GYA reports that 90 percent of students who take gap years enroll in a four-year institution within one year of completing their gap year. That can quell some of the concerns parents and even students may have about taking a year off from school at a time when many of their peers may be moving forward with their educations. What do students do during their gap years? Though the GYA notes that some space and time to explore the unknown is vital to a gap year, students who think a gap year may be right for them should know that such years are most effective when students engage themselves in activities designed to expand their horizons. Many students spend their gap years volunteering with a service organization while others may accept an internship to see what life in a given profession may be like. Students have had to confront many challenges during the pandemic. Recent grads experiencing fatigue as a result of those challenges may find that now is the ideal time to take a gap year.
GRADUATION 2021
MAY 2021
DO N’T LE T T HE NOIS E OF OT H ER S ’ OP I NI ONS DR OW N O U T YO UR OWN IN NE R VOI CE. AND MOST I MP ORTANT, HAV E THE COURAGE TO FO L LOW YOUR H EART AND I NT UI T I O N . STEVE JOBS
CITY OF
SENECA HALLOWEEN GrEEN on the
Follow us on Facebook
Seneca SC Events // More info at www.seneca.sc.us
Congratulations Graduates!
There’s Power in Knowledge. As a proud sponsor of educational outreach projects, Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative knows the true power of knowledge. Transforming lives through the Washington Youth Tour and scholarships, we are committed to our community by helping our young members power their potential.
WORKING TOGETHER FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE.
1-800-240-3400
www.blueridge.coop
Walhalla High School
Daniel Aguilar
Etni Alcala-Gomez
Chase Alexander
Kali Allred
Gary Amador
Aaron Appignani
Emily Arenas
Addison Ball
Adam Barnes
Lauren Baumgarner
Averey Baynard
Jesse Beatriz
Selena Berardi
Kamryn Bevel
Donovan Bishop
Bryan Blackwell
William Boggs
Grace Boni
Catherine Booker
Bennett Bost
Christopher Brewer
Corbin Bryson
Spencer Butler
Andrew Butts
Mireya Cabrera
Clayton Calhoun
Maggie Callahan
Jhullia Camarin
Jessica Campbell
William Capell
Clay Carmichael
Susi-Ann Carroll
Eden Castellanos
Kaley Cearley
Oscar Chandler
Landon Chapman
Landon Chappell
Madison Chastain
Megan Chastain
Jonathan Chaves
Daniel Cliburn
Kirsten Cobb
MAY 2021
GRADUATION 2021
THE JOURNAL § 11
Walhalla High School
Lydia Coleman
Justin Collins
Abigail Connally
Maximiliano Contla
Qe’Dryk Cook
Paisha Corbett
Isabella Covington
Dylan Crane
Gracie Crenshaw
Ashley Crouse
Davis Crowe
Kaitlyn Crowe
Atlai Cruz
Walter Cruz
Layla DaCosta
Troy Davis
Kristina Demetres
Asya Dial
Nathaniel Duncan
Jenna Durham
Justin Eberhard
Johnny Ellenburg
Kelsey Elliott
Kelly Ellis
Reese Enders
Ammy Espinosa
Kaleb Evans
Merrill Fischer
Jeramy Ford
Katlyn Fortson
Austin Frabotta
MaKenzie Galloway
Jeremy Gibbs
Autumn Goins
McKinnley Golden
Abraham Gomez
Joel Gomez
Amarius Graham
Kaleb Grant
Jared Grogan
Emily Guthrie
Maggie Harden
12 § THE JOURNAL
GRADUATION 2021
MAY 2021
Walhalla High School
Hayden Hendricks
Justin Holcomb
Garrett Holcombe
Jonathan Hopkins
Nevan Hopkins
Jennifer Horner
Aaron Houston
Sierra Howell
Leo Huller
Malachi Hunter
Logan Hunter
Jadyn Hutchison
Kylie Hutchison
Finn Ifversen
Shelby Irvin
John Jachna
Noah Jensen
Hayden Johnson
Isaac Johnson
Kara Johnson
Griffin Jones
Hillery Justice
Emma Kanagy
Owen Kerr
Kylee Kirby
Evan Klement
Russell Kuemmerer
Edward Lance
Noah Lay
Wesley LeCroy
William LeCroy
Anna Lee
Galen Lee
Nicholas Lella
Briar Leonard
Weston Lewis
Nolan Littleton
Hannah Long
Zyiesha Longwith
Yahir Lopez
Lucas Lorenzen
Savannah Lowery
MAY 2021
GRADUATION 2021
THE JOURNAL § 13
Walhalla High School
Madyson Luce
Viviana Luna
Ashley Lusk
Brady Lusk
Hanna Lyle
Savannah Machado
Aiden Mahon
Ulysses Marana-Calixto
Nicholas Marcum
Michelle Martin
Ansley Mattox
Austin McCall
Ava McDonald
Christa McGaha
Aerin McKinney
Myla McMahan
Isbet Mendez
Olivia Merck
Lindsay Millsaps
Chloe Moore
Joshua Morris
Chamera Mulwee
Travis Newman
Trevor Newman
Hunter Nichols
Logan Nix
Emily Orr
Jason Overfelt
Rylee Overfelt
Devann Painter
Garrison Patterson
Nicholas Pettit
Regan Phillips
Justice Pointer
Kileigh Poole
Madison Poole
Cayman Pope
Karley Price
Chloe Putnam
Zabdi Quinones
Rafael Quiterio Jr.
Brock Raab
14 § THE JOURNAL
GRADUATION 2021
MAY 2021
Walhalla High School
James Ratliff
Tristan Reid
Preston Richey
Jackson Robinson
Kayle Robinson
Tatiana Rosado
Kohl Rowland
Carter Rust
Elijah Saint
Krista Sandidge
Jack Scholovich
Noah Zaire Scotland
Noemi Segura
Trevor Senn
Matthew Shannon
Brandon Sharpe
Kara Shaw
Jacklyn Shear
Riley Shepherd
DeAnna Sheppard
Alexis Shook
Dusti Simmons
Aidan Smith
Anna Smith
Lauren Smith
Layla Smith
Sarah Smith
Blanca Sorcia
Jenevive Stephenson
Aidan Taylor
Abby Thorsland
Levi Tippett
Kayleigh Toole
Carleigh Turner
Braden Tuten
Lily Underwood
Carolina Vallejo-Ojeda
Brittney Vasquez Hernandez
Alexander Vaughn
Jose Vazquez
Nahum Vazquez
Ruben Vela Mendoza
MAY 2021
GRADUATION 2021
THE JOURNAL § 15
Walhalla High School
Edgar Velasco
Cade Vissage
Olivia Vissage
Brayden Waldrop
Jacob Watkins
Baley Watkins
Lilee Watkins
Alyssa Welton
Andrew Westmoreland
John Whiteford
Kaylee Whitman
Seana Wholey
Morgan Wilbanks
Abbigail Williams
Savannah Williamson
John Wilson
Samantha Wilson
Landis Winchester
Helen Wood
Bryson Worsham
Kahlil Wright
NOT PICTURED
Emma Rae Wynn
Willow Yerskey
Emma Ziluck
Jada Boyd Thomas Butler Austin Cox Aaron Davis Jenna Durham Chloe Hembree Rebecca Hernandez Brian Hopkins
Theodore Hurst Shawna Jenkins Samuel Klugo Gisselle Leon Nickolas Maitland-Smith Danier Martinez-Vargas Nayeli Murillo Kevin Olvera
Maxwell Parker Avita Perez-Tedeschi Allison Richardson Timothy Smith Alyssa Tracy George Tracy Meghan Tracy Leia Wiley
Why wear caps and gowns? Graduation ceremonies are steeped in tradition, the most noticeable of which may be the caps and gowns worn by students on hand to receive their degrees. This attire likely dates back to 12th century Europe, when students would wear hoods and gowns that resembled those worn by their teachers, who were members of the clergy. According to Colorado State University, in 1321 a statute of the University of Coimbra in Portugal declared that all “Doctors, Licentiates, and Bachelors” wear gowns. That means that the mandatory graduation gown is on the cusp of celebrating its 700th anniversary. Hoods, caps and gowns not only signified a certain status of the students wearing them, but they also served a more practical purpose, helping to keep students warm in the unheated buildings where they were being taught. Ironically, many modern graduates, particularly those whose graduation ceremonies are held outdoors, may lament that their caps and gowns make them feel hot. 16 § THE JOURNAL
GRADUATION 2021
MAY 2021
Congratulations CLASS OF 2021 Proud To Support All High School Seniors from the
BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF OCONEE COUNTY
The Board of Trustees of the School District of Oconee County Mr. Dean Bare, Council District I Dr. Meghan McPhail Ketterman, Council District II Dr. Sandra Sloan, Clerk, Council District III Mrs. Denise McCormick, Chairperson, Council District IV Mr. Buddy G. Herring, Vice Chairman, Council District V
West-Oak High School
John Adams
Gracie Addison
Paul Albertson
Steven Arini
Wesley Baker
Kaitlyn Barkley
Brandon Bennett
Gavin Black
Katelynn Blackwell
Hunter Blackwell
Emma Blackwell
Destiny Blackwell
Nate Blanke
Cody Bleckley
Taylor Boatwright
Addison Boggs
Alea Brady
Levi Brewer
Savannah Bright
Jenna Broome
Jason Bryson
Madeline Burch
Hadasa Byers
Austin M. Campbell
Iszy Campbell
Kentae Catchings
Sarah Cawthon
Myra Clark-Vinson
Kai Corbett
Mere Cruz
Theresa Daniel
Jacob Dobbs
Michael Dorfman
Jeffrey Dorsey
Brittney Driver
Sarah Duckert
Jordan Eaton
Elizabeth Ellenburg
Carlos Escamilla
Andrew Evans
Kaitlyn Feno
Dylan Frederick
18 § THE JOURNAL
GRADUATION 2021
MAY 2021
West-Oak High School
Jay Galbreath
Jesse Galloway
Gabriela Garcia Maldonado
Jocelyn Godwin
Haley Goodwin
Connor Greene
Peyton Greer
Landon Griffin
Megan Hamby
Austin Hammond
Joshua Harden
Lincoln Hardy
Garrett Hare
Reagan Hayden
Nicholas Heaton
Seigler Henderson
Gracie Herring
Marina Hilario-Lazaro
Emma Holbrooks
Jenna Holbrooks
Eli Holbrooks
Corey Holcomb
Allison Holcombe
Emily Hood
Keagan Hopkins
Olivia Hopkins
Ezequiel Ibanez
Chris Ingle
Haley Jackson
Sarah Jacobs
Khalil Jenkins
Phoebe Jimenez
Olyvia Kelly
Caleb Kern
Dakota King
Carley King
Kirklin Knight
Kaitlin Kraftchick
Liberty Lane
Brandon Lee
Jeremy Lee
Richard Lewis
MAY 2021
GRADUATION 2021
THE JOURNAL § 19
West-Oak High School
Sean Lobos
Sierra Mast
Jessie McGaha
Logan McGuffin
Kathryn McGuire
Caroline McKenzie
Raven McKnight
Slater Miller
Justin Miller
John Miller
Guy Mobley
Yamileth Montes Escalera
Connor Moore
Grace Morehead
Andrea Morgan
Isaac Mullen
Charis Mullikin
Dylan Nichols
Jewel Nix
Debra O’Kelley
Matthew Oliver
Alyssah Owen
Kevin Owens
Tristan Owens
Julia Ramey
Lauren Rholetter
Garrett Rholetter
Samuel Rholetter
Rachel Richardson
Samuel Roach
Jared Rogers
Bryson Rohletter
Fernando Rosas
Karla Salinas
Alexis Sargent
Colton Schlock
Carley Sewell
Kaitlyn Shephard
Samantha Sherman
Allison Silvers
Brianna Simmons
Brittany Smith
20 § THE JOURNAL
GRADUATION 2021
MAY 2021
West-Oak High School
Caroline Smith
Herbert Smith
Kaylee Smith
Emily Smith
Gary Snelgrove
Kalen Sosby
Douglas Stancil
Cameron Stasney
Caitlin Stephens
Dublin Stevens
Jordan Still
Baylee Sullivan
Sera Swan
Joy Swayngham
Brian Sykes
Alexis Teske
Heather Thoma
Breanna Tollison
Gavin Tukes
Keegan E. Wallace
Hailey Watson
Emily Watson
Caitlin Webb
Jonathan White
Molly White
Joel White
Jacob Wicker
Rylie Williams
Christan Wilson
Michael Wood
Anjoli Woodall
Madison Woodberry
Autumn Yates
Josiah Yoder
Anai Zapatero
MAY 2021
GRADUATION 2021
THE JOURNAL § 21
Oconee Christian Academy
Kyle Ayres
Kelley Bellotte
Mason Duncan
Sarah Glenn
Madison Hawkins
Kyle Trussell
NEXT School Eagle Ridge
Caitlyn Cannon
Hannah Chappell
Ellery DeRosa
Felisha Foster
Brittany Hendricks
Luke Land
Zaybreigh Manley
Aaron O’Dell
Hunter Payne
Dawson Savage
Jack Sexton
Ethan Watson
Caleb Ledford
Great gifts for today’s grads By the time students reach graduation day, many have taken hundreds of tests, written scores of essays, worked through thousands of pencils, and made dozens of friends along the way. Such realities only underscore the notion that graduation is worthy of celebration. Thoughtful gifts can show graduates their accomplishments have not gone unnoticed. The following are nine graduation gift ideas. • Keepsake blanket: A blanket featuring school colors that’s woven with photos or data about the graduate and graduating class makes a great keepsake. • Engraved compass: Finding one’s new direction will take time, and a symbolic compass with inspirational words can help guide graduates on their future quests. • Jewelry: Gift-givers may want to offer to pay for a school ring or can opt for different jewelry. For example, a necklace with the infinity symbol can represent infinite possibilities ahead. Those who collect charms for 22 § THE JOURNAL
bracelets or necklaces can be gifted a graduation-themed charm. • Dorm room essentials: Graduates going on to college will need a starter pack of essentials. A personalized tote bag filled with toiletries, linens and more will help graduates outfit their dorm rooms in style. • Inspirational art: Graduates may want to revamp their bedrooms or decorate new dorm rooms. Framed inspirational verses, sayings or images can make ideal gifts. • Blue-blocking eyeglasses: Blue-blocking lenses protect eyes from the harsh effects of blue light emitted from screens, a big benefit in an era when students and professionals spend ample time with their devices. • Streaming service: Graduates can benefit from any number of streaming television and movie services to stay entertained while commuting or relaxing around the dorm with friends.
GRADUATION 2021
MAY 2021
HOW TO CONTACT YOUR
OCONEE COUNTY GOVERNMENT Addressing ...........................................................(864) 638-4250 Administrator ......................................................(864) 638-4245 Animal Control ....................................................(864) 888-0221 Airport ................................................................(864) 882-2959 Assessor ...............................................................(864) 638-4150 Auditor ................................................................(864) 638-4158 Building Codes .....................................................(864) 718-1005 Clerk of Court ......................................................(864) 638-4280 Coroner ................................................................(864) 885-0687 County Council ....................................................(864) 718-1023 Delinquent Tax Office ...........................................(864) 638-4147 Emergency Management .....................................(864) 638-4200 Emergency Services..............................................(864) 638-4220 Finance ................................................................(864) 638-4235 Geographic Information Systems ...........................(864) 638-4251 Human Resources.................................................(864) 638-4252 Magistrate Courts Walhalla .........................................................(864) 638-4125 Seneca............................................................(864) 888-1460 Westminster ...................................................(864) 647-5998
Oconee Public Library: Walhalla Branch ................(864) 638-4133 Oconee Economic Alliance ....................................(864) 638-4210 Parks, Recreation and Tourism ..............................(864) 888-1488 Planning & Zoning ...............................................(864) 638-4218 Probate Court ......................................................(864) 638-4275 Procurement ........................................................(864) 638-4141 Register of Deeds .................................................(864) 638-4285 Roads & Bridges ...................................................(864) 886-1072 Rock Quarry .........................................................(864) 638-4214 Sheriff’s Office .....................................................(864) 638-4111 Soil & Water Conservation ....................................(864) 638-2415 Solid Waste & Recycling Information ..........................................(864) 888-1440 Treasurer .............................................................(864) 638-4162 Vehicle Maintenance ............................................(864) 888-1446 Veteran’s Affairs ...................................................(864) 638-4231 Voter Registration / Elections ...............................(864) 638-4196
www.oconeesc.com
Daniel High School
Tuleen Al-nasser
Emily Alexander
Andrei Alexandrov
Christopher Allison
Emily Allison
Olivia Allison
Lawson Anderson
James Anthony
Samantha Arms
Luke Artigliere
Alaina Avery
Payton Bagby
Makenna Bagwell
Anna Ball
Jaret Barnes
Cameron Bateman
Martin Beck
Josiah Benson
Daniel Black
Jordan Black
Kimberly Blackwell
Logan Bowen
Jamion Bradley
Mabry Bratcher
Anna Brooks-Knepfle
Bryanna Brown
Michael Brown
Samuel Bruce
Savannah Cade
Emily Callahan
Roby Casey
Thomas Cawood
Hunter Childers
Vivian Childress
Kennedy Christmas
Devin Clay
Carmen Colecio
Courtney Collins
Jose Contreras Elizarrara
Melissa Contreras-Estrada
Sophia Cox
Jillian Cring
24 § THE JOURNAL
GRADUATION 2021
MAY 2021
Daniel High School
Jackson Crosby
Kara Crownover
Jayden Cudd
Dylan Daniel
Adrienna Davis
Kristen Davis
Reece Davis
Sallie Dekle
Ryan Delk
Alyssa Derrberry
Hayden Devier
Madelyn Diersing
Sara Beth Dockins
Georgia Dodson
Vivian Dong
Carson Dooley Fruster
Leah Durrance
Mary Gaston Earle
Lillie Eldridge
Karim Elmehdawi
Elizabeth Epps
Kayra Ersoy
Della Evans
Emma Evans
Bedford Fagan
Mary Walker Felder
Jolean Field
Emiliegh Fifik
Kayla Fireovid
Sarah Follis
Kayla Forrester
Mary Evelyn Gaddis
Leah Garrick
Bryant Garrison
Adriel Gary
Jenna Gaskin
Rebekah Gaskin
Perrieanne Ginn
Douglas Gonzalez
Teagan Gordon
Zachary Grant
Sydnee Greenlee
MAY 2021
GRADUATION 2021
THE JOURNAL § 25
Daniel High School
Jakeline Guerrero
Jessica Haney
Nicholas Hapeshis
Daniel Harding
Thomas Harding
Ramon Harkins
Carson Haynes
Cooper Hays
Jacob Hendricks
Sincere Hicks
Cameron Holbrooks
Kalynn Holmes
Samuel Housand
Ruijia Hu
Jonas Huss
Brock Jacobs
Nimasha Jayasinghe
Jakub Jerzmanowski
Kevin Johnson
Meagan Johnson
Ashland Jones
Bryson Jones
Sourajit Karmakar
MaKayla Kerswell
Colby King
Anna Kittle
TraLisa Lay
TraVon Lay
Luis Lezama
Jack Lindsay
Alora Livengood
Jose Lizardi
Gianna Lombardo
Janet Lopez Sanchez
Ernesto Lopez-Sanchez
Carolyn Madden
Jennifer Marshall
Jessica Mason
Robin Massey
Matthew McCaskill
Graham McCrary
Casey McJunkin
26 § THE JOURNAL
GRADUATION 2021
MAY 2021
Daniel High School
Owen McSharry
Disney Medeiros
Rodrigo Medina Barbosa
Chase Medlin
Stephanie Mejia Gonzalez
Tyler Miller
Karla Montoya-Najera
Kristofer Moon
Michael Moore
Olivia Mueller
Carey Murphree
Grace Nammouz
Ryan Nash
Kassie Nations
Gregory Norman
Jesus Olayo-Olvera
Annaka Osborne
Emily Parham
Hannah Parham
Mihir Patel
Nirali Patel
Isha Pattanaik
Ellen Perry
Ashlyn Pilgrim
Claudia Pilgrim
McKinney Pilgrim
Laney Plumblee
Kelly Poole-Lusk
Phillip Post
Camden Potter
John Ray
Destiny Revis
Ethan Richard
Olivia Riggins
Andrew Robbins
Tommi Roberts
Shelby Robinson
Holden Rogers
Arianah Roper
Rachel Rushing
Jennifer Sabino
Amya Saffer
MAY 2021
GRADUATION 2021
THE JOURNAL § 27
Daniel High School
Alejandra Salgado
Vineet Saraf
Ethan Sarafin
Matthew Schilf
George Segars
Rudra Shah
Troy Shealy
Kira Shedd
William Shull
Edward Simmons
Blake Simpson
Allison Smith
Annslee Smith
Charlie Smith
Chloe Smith
Christiahna Smith
Christopher Smith
Courtney Smith
Meckenzie Smith
Sophia Smith
Stephanie Smith
Logan Spearman
Robert Stancell
Malana Standifer
Andrew Staton
Jacob Stewart
Eli Story
Cheyenne Straub
Elliott Swain
Corbin Tallman
Abu Tapper
Jacob Taylor
Griffin Thomas
Jackson Thrift
Elizabeth Tibbs
Summer Timmerman
Crosby Tompkins
Zachary Turner
Abigail Voorhees
Lauren Watrous
Mackenzie Watson
Jaeleigh Weaver
28 § THE JOURNAL
GRADUATION 2021
MAY 2021
Daniel High School
Tylek Webb
Celine Weeks
Sydney Weeks
Annaliese Weiss
Sarah Whitfield
Sydney Whitfield
Joshua Wiggins
Emily Williams
Macy Williams
Havahn Williams Rollins
Allyson Wilson
Grant Wilson
Nevaeh Woodson
Tipton Wright
NOT PICTURED Kodiak Jack McKinney
Frank Yang
Aleksandar Yordanov
Ashlyn Zangara
Diploma display ideas Graduation day is one of the proudest moments in students’ academic careers. Diplomas are symbolic of hours spent honing skills and working on assignments and, ultimately, success in the classroom. High school diplomas represent an opportunity to go on to higher learning or a trade, while college degrees indicate young people are ready to begin their professional lives. Many graduates are excited about the prospect of receiving their diplomas. Once in hand, the document can be put on display. The following are some unique ways to showcase diplomas at home or at work. Framing One of the classic ways to display a diploma is in a frame. Many businesses offer customized framing where the frame material and the matting can be chosen. Some grads may want to include a photograph of the school or a picture of the graduate above the diploma. Graduates also may want to select a frame and mat that coordinates with school colors. Create a shadow box Consider displaying the diploma with other mementos from school. A shadow box is a large, deep display frame that can house items that are thicker than photographs or papers. Items such as a graduation tassel, medal or other MAY 2021
award, a varsity jacket patch, or a program from a school performance or awards ceremony can be placed in the shadow box. Create a photo wall Display the diploma among other framed photos from school activities. This can elicit a trip down memory lane every time the wall is viewed. Some families may want to display their diplomas together, especially if multiple family members attended the same school. Make a work of art Various online art vendors can turn the diploma into different works of art. For example, engravers can laser engrave the diploma onto a wooden plaque. Then the diploma can be displayed in one location and the wood plaque in another. Place it under glass Display the diploma beneath the glass top of a coffee table. When entertaining guests, the diploma can make for a unique conversation piece. A school diploma is worthy of recognition. There are various creative ways to display these documents that reflect the hard work and success of their recipients.
GRADUATION 2021
THE JOURNAL § 29
Opportunities abound in the field of engineering Engineering is a vital component of many industries. Engineers affect nearly every aspect of daily life, and a career in engineering can be both fulfilling and financially rewarding. According to PayScale.com, degrees in the STEM fields, which focus on science, technology, engineering, or math, continue to be at or near the top of the site’s College Salary Report. Engineering seems to be an especially lucrative degree to have. In fact, the 2018 report found that three of the top four highest paying jobs for people with a bachelor’s degree were in the field of engineering. A high salary is certainly enticing, but many professional engineers feel their jobs are more than just a paycheck, as overcoming the challenges posed by a career in engineering can lead to great personal satisfaction. The various disciplines within the field of engineering attract students from all walks of life, making engineering an attractive career path for young people with an array of skillsets and interests. The following are just some of the many potential career opportunities for students who earn degrees in engineering. ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS ENGINEER Technology is vital to daily life in the 21st century, and electrical and electronics engineers play an integral role in making the connected world a reality. Electrical engineers work on everything from computers to wireless networks to automobiles and aircrafts. CHEMICAL ENGINEER Combining the principles of biology, chemistry, economics, mathematics, and physics, chemical engineers strive to convert chemicals, energy and other materials into useful products. Chemical engineers work in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, petroleum, energy, and manufacturing. Some chemical engineers focus on research, while others may work on quality control or safety procedures.
COMPUTER ENGINEER Whether using their smartphones, tablets, laptops, or desktops, few people now go a full day without using some type of computer. They have computer engineers, who create and improve existing computer technologies, to thank for that. Computer engineers may focus their efforts on wireless networks, the internet or other systems that businesses and people rely on every day. MECHANICAL ENGINEER Mechanical engineers are involved in the research, design and development of machinery. Such machinery may include medical devices, appliances people have in their homes that they use every day or turbines. The field of engineering can be rewarding and lucrative. Becoming a professional engineer requires years of schooling, but the rewards of such a pursuit can be well worth the effort.
Vocational schooling can pave the way to high-paying jobs Many students believe that the next natural step after graduating from high school is to go off to college. Secondary education has become such a common transition that many parents begin saving for college tuition as soon as their children are born. Although college can be the next chapter in a student’s education, many teenagers still choose to attend trade school. Television personality Mike Rowe says the country is in the midst of a skilled labor shortage because workers lack the necessary training to fill the hundreds of 30 § THE JOURNAL
thousands of available jobs. Lack of information may drive the notion that trade jobs are nothing more than a backup plan if college doesn’t pan out. However, by realizing that trade jobs, along with short-term vocational training, is a smart investment — and eventually a lucrative career choice — attitudes about trade schools and laborintensive jobs may shift. A great number of college graduates enter the workforce with degrees that may not help them land jobs. And these students typically carry thousands of dollars in tuition debt. Many college grads are underemployed and working in jobs that aren’t even in their fields of study. Career and technical schools help students develop specialized skills that make graduates immediately marketable in their chosen fields, and trade salaries can be very competitive.
GRADUATION 2021
MAY 2021
Congratulations, Class of 2021! YOU DID IT! You’ve overcome obstacles despite changing circumstances; now it’s time to set your sights on your goals and aspirations. Start here, near the safety, comfort and convenience of your home. Whether you hope for solid training to go to work right away or you’re looking to transfer to a four-year college, Tri-County is the best place to start. We believe in you!
IMPORTANT DATES July 15: Financial Aid Priority Processing Date August 12: Fall 2021 Admissions Deadline August 23: Classes Begin
864-646-TCTC • tctc.edu
FINALLY FINISHED!
Congrats Grads!
PLAY ON OUR LAKES AND STAY SAFE!
Boating Safety Before You Leave
Boating Safety On the Water
Check the weather. Let someone know where you are going. Gather all lifesaving devices and ensure they are in good condition. Check the fuel and the battery charge. Make sure lights are in good working condition on the boat and trailer. Check the fire extinguisher is readily accessible and in good serviceable condition. Put the plug in. Connect trailer safety chains to tow vehicle.
Know the aids to navigation and buoy system in your areas. Don’t operate the boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs. When operating sailboats, be aware of overhead power lines and wires. If someone falls overboard, throw something that will float (Personal Floating Device (PFD), raft or cooler). All boats approaching from the right have the right of way. Always anchor from the bow of the boat and pull the anchor before leaving. If the boat capsizes, stay with the boat. If caught in a storm, head into the wind, put on PFD’s and keep passengers low in the boat.
STAY SAFE and HAVE FUN!