In rain, 310 seniors graduate from ACHS

By MICAH HENRY

The Alexander Central High School 2025 Graduation Ceremony, held Friday, June 6, at Cougar Stadium, was quite memorable, as much as for the weather as the gifted students going out into the world.

Senior Taylor Brown, Student Body Co-President, introduced stage guests and gave the graduation address. She is the daughter of John Morgan Brown and Amber Brown, of the Sugar Loaf Community. She will be attending Duke University in the fall.

“Today, we close a chapter that many of us thought would never end, and many of us secretly hoped wouldn’t. Because for all the stress, late-night studying, and presssure, high school was also full of tiny, unforgettable moments: laughing at the lunch table with our friends, pep rallies, unexpected friendships, and moments that we will hold onto forever. This place changed us in ways we may not even understand yet. And now, we’re standing on the edge of what’s next. It’s a terrifying but beautiful place to be.”

She thanked everyone who helped students along to graduation through the years. Brown said, in part, “Whether we admit it or not, many of us are scared. Scared we don’t have a plan, scared we will fail, scared we won’t become what we’re supposed to be. We spent years hooking ourselves to expectations, grades, colleges, futures, and we hardly had a moment to stop and ask, ‘Who am I right now?’

“Here’s the truth: you’re allowed to take your time. You don’t have to have it all figured out today, or tomorrow, or even next year…The life you dream about is patiently waiting for you to grow into it. You don’t need to rush, just need to live… So, no matter where you are in life, it’s important to remind yourself you’re not behind, you’re becoming,” Brown said.

Other students taking the podium at the event were Aniston Chapman and Aleia Hammer, who led the Pledge of Allegiance. Senior Chorus Members provided special music. The Presentation of Colors was done by the ACHS JROTC Cadets. Processional music was provided by the Apple City Brass.

Senior Griffin Duncan, son of Robert and Beth Duncan, of Taylorsville. offered the invocation and welcome. He will be attending Appalachian State University.

He said in part, “Dear Lord, thank you for this day. Thank you for the little things about this day we take for granted. Thank you for the Senior Breakfast this morning, which will be the last time we all eat a meal together. Thank you for the late night campfire with friends. Thank you for the Yellow Deli trips and the late night Cook Out runs…Thank you for the teachers who cared, the teachers who have become friends, and the teachers we will miss… Thank you for the family that have supported us over the years. Lastly, thank you for the friends…As we struggle with the uncertainties that are to come, offer us reassurance. When we remember that tomorrow isn’t promised, remind us that today is an opportunity to make a difference, to be kind, to offer a smile…Guide us tomorrow. Guide us the day after…Give us assurance that, even if we feel no one cares about us, that You do. You love us so much, that You sent Your Son, Jesus Christ, to give his life on the cross, so our sins will be forgiven. He dided so we would have the change for eternal life. Thank you for that immeasurable sacrifice. Thank you for everything that you have done, everything you are currently doing, and everything you will do, for us, in us, and through us.”

“Today marks not just an ending but a magnificent beginning,” said Alexander County Schools Superintendent Dr. Bill Griffin. “As I look out at each of you in your caps and gowns, I see not just who you are now, but all that you will become…Today, you walk out as graduates, ready to chart your own course in the world, that needs your unique talents and perspectives more than ever before. The diploma you receive this evening represents not just what you have learned, but your readiness to continue learning throughout your life. Stay curious. Ask difficult questions. Challenge assumptions, including your own. And remember that failure isn’t something to fear. It’s often the precursor to your greatest innovations and discoveries.”

He added, “I challenge you to be bold in your pursuits but humble in your approach. Listen as intently as you speak. Serve others as readily as you pursue your own goals. When you achieve success, which I know you will, reach back and lift up others up alongside you.”

Senior Preston Lackey, of Hiddenite, provided the benediction. He is the son of Trammel and Cathy Lackey and will attend Western Carolina University in the fall.

Lackey said in part, “Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for guiding through these last four years of high school. As we leave here today, Lord please watch over us. We thank you for the many lessons we have learned and the achievements you have allowed us to accomplish. Thank you, Lord, for allowing us to see the day where we can go out into the world and explore ideas and experience different opportunities in life. We thank you for all the teachers, administration, and support staff who have helped us through this journey. Lord, bless us as graduates to go forth and do amazing things. Please let us use what we have learned to help make the world a better place and not let fear get in the way of our future.”

After Principal Jacob Lail and assistant principals conferred diplomas, Lail cut short his closing remarks, due to the rain falling upon the attendees.

“On behalf of the entire faculty and staff, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you. As you bid farewell to these halls, may you carry with you the knowledge, experiences, and values that have shaped your high school years,” Lail said.