Graduates look to the future
Published 11:30 am Wednesday, May 24, 2017
- Hundreds of people packed the Central Middle School gymnasium Saturday to witness Randolph-Henry High School seniors turn their tassels, becoming the newest graduates of Charlotte County. Pictured, Lalainya Allen, left, and Charkiba Robinson smile as they enjoy their final moments of the graduation ceremony.
The Randolph-Henry High School graduating Class of 2017 officially became the latest Charlotte County graduates during their graduation ceremony Saturday in the Central Middle School gymnasium.
This year, 130 graduates became alumni after they turned their tassels upon receiving their diplomas.
“I truly believe that the Class of 2017 is the greatest graduating class that Randolph-Henry has seen yet,” said Senior Class President Kendrik Goldman during Saturday’s ceremony.
During the event, students were recognized for their impressive achievements and met with words of encouragement for the future.
“After 12 years of hard work, it feels great to be a graduate because finally all that hard work has paid off,” said senior Lalainya Allen.
The ceremony opened with a welcome and remarks from Randolph-Henry High School Principal Robbie Mason.
“Last, but certainly not least, welcome to your big day, Class of 2017,” Mason said. “This is a very bittersweet day for me. I’m so proud of these young people for reaching this milestone … This is a special group of young people.”
Mason said he’d heard from staff and the community over the duration of the last few weeks regarding how special the class was.
“I’ve watched this group for a long time,” said Charlotte County Board of Supervisors Chairman Gary Walker.
He offered congratulations to the graduating class on behalf of the board.
“On behalf on the Charlotte County School Board and my colleagues, I certainly say congratulations to you …,” said Charlotte County School Board Chairman Larry Fannon.
As the ceremony came to an end, graduates, friends and family proceeded to gather, taking photos and offering congratulations.
“I’m mostly gonna miss seeing my friends the most, especially Alexxis Spencer” said graduate Shawleace Hill. “She always knew how to brighten up my day.”
As a final piece of advice, Division Superintendent Dr. Nancy Leonard told the graduating class to go out into the world and love their neighbors.
“This has got to be one of the most beautiful graduation classes I have ever seen,” she said.
