As commencement ceremonies take place over the next few days, there will be a select group of students who stand for special recognition. These 87 pupils have earned that right by performing well in the classroom to solidify honor graduate status.
Their respective biographies, provided by the schools, are printed below.
Swainsboro High School has 47 honor graduates this year. Emanuel County Institute has 36, and David Emanuel Academy has four.
Sasha Adams, Swainsboro High
While at SHS, Adams has been a member of FBLA and Beta Club. She served as a manager for both the Lady Tiger basketball and flag football teams. She is a member of the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board and has been a dual enrollment student at Southeastern Technical College (STC), where she received certification in Introduction to Criminal Justice. Her pathway is Business, and she is certified in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Powerpoint. She is the daughter of Kiwana Young and Lamont Adams. After graduation, she plans to attend Columbus State University to major in psychology and minor in criminal justice.
Torri Allen, Swainsboro High
Throughout her high school career, Allen has been an active participant in the SHS basketball program. First, she served as a manager for the boys’ team and was a cheerleader the last two years. Allen received the Academic and Character Award in 2021, and she was recognized as a Positive Athlete Georgia for the East Region last month in the area of cheerleading. She was a member of FBLA and has been a dual enrollment student. She is a member of the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board and represented her class on the homecoming court. Allen has been active in community service projects as well as keeping two jobs at Central Office and at Walmart. Additionally, she received the P.A.U.S.E. Award for Emanuel County Schools in March. She is the daughter of Natasha Allen and Cory Allen. After graduation, she plans to attend Georgia State University to major in psychology with plans to further her education at Emory University School of Medicine to pursue her dream of becoming a child and adolescent psychiatrist.
Gabriel Ambrosia, Swainsboro High
Ambrosia has been a member of the marching band and the soccer team during high school. He received certifications in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Powerpoint. Ambrosia plans are to serve in the United States Marine Corps and attend Georgia Southern University to obtain a bachelor’s degree in music. He is the son of Marcelo Ambrosio-Cruz and Margarita Ambrosio-Ruiz.
Veronica Ayala Valencia, Swainsboro High
While at SHS, Valencia has been in band, JROTC, and soccer. After graduation, she plans to attend East Georgia State College (EGSC) to pursue an associate degree. She is the daughter of Beatriz Valencia Ramirez and Juan Ayala.
T’Keria Bailey, Swainsboro High
Bailey was an involved student at Swainsboro. She played basketball and soccer and was a member of the Band of Gold danceline. During her freshman season, she received the 6th Man and Academic awards. She earned honor roll all four years and became certified in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. She has been a dual enrollment student at STC while maintaining honors level courses at Swainsboro High. Bailey graduated from STC in August 2021 with a certification in criminal justice. She has spent many hours over the last four years on community service projects, including feeding the elderly at Brown Chapel. She is the daughter of Natalia and Greg Carter, Eric Worthen, and Deidra Brown. After graduation, she plans to attend Georgia State University and major in psychology.
Scotty Boatright, Swainsboro High
While a student at Swainsboro, Boatright has been an FBLA member all four years and took on the role of secretary his senior year. He was elected by his peers to the 2021 homecoming court and was voted as having the most Tiger pride. He was also selected by the SHS faculty as a senior superlative. Boatright is on the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board, and he plans to attend Augusta University, then transfer to study law in hopes of becoming a patent attorney. He is the son of William and Stephanie Boatright.
Valencia Brown, Swainsboro High
Throughout high school, Brown has been a member of both FBLA and FCCLA. She also received certification for Microsoft and served her community by being a blood donor. After graduation, she plans to attend Kennesaw State University as a criminal justice major. Her parents are Articia and Willie Brown.
Emily Anne Chatham, Emanuel County Institute
During her time at ECI, Chatham has been an honor roll student, part of the JROTC program, competed on the drill team, and participated in the color guard. As a senior, she was battalion commander. She plans to attend Georgia Southern University and major in criminal justice. Her parents are Horace and Neely Chatham.
Cameron Claxton, Swainsboro High
While at SHS, Cameron completed the JROTC pathway, which will allow him to earn a pay grade of E-3 instead of an E-1 if he pursues a career in the military. He also earned a certification in Microsoft Word. The son of Ron and Karen Claxton, he plans to attend Kennesaw State University to study cybersecurity.
Hollan Coleman, Swainsboro High
Coleman is the current FBLA vice president and is also a member of Beta Club and student council. She competed at the regional and state level with both FBLA and Beta. She is a four-year member of the golf team and a five-year member of the Band of Gold danceline, for which she served as captain. She has been a dual enrollment student at EGSC and was selected to represent her class on the homecoming court in 2018 and 2021. The daughter of Vince and Kristi Coleman of Meeks, she plans to attend GSU as a biology major seeking a pre-med certificate, then pursue medical school to become a dermatologist.
Mikiyah D’Janai Coney, Emanuel County Institute
As an ECI student, Coney has been a four-year Star Honor Roll student. She is also a four-year Beta member. During her 10th grade year, she was an active FBLA member. The daughter of Angela Coney and Michael Wesley, she plans to attend Albany State University and major in physical therapy.
Brittany Copeland, Swainsboro High
Copeland completed two pathways and took dual enrollment classes during high school. In JROTC, she discovered what she wanted for her future and made plans to attend Ogeechee Technical College to pursue a degree in sonography. She is the daughter of April Gregory and Bobby Copeland.
Salma Erminea Cueva Santana, Emanuel County Institute
Throughout high school at ECI, Cueva has made Star Honor Roll every year. She also joined both Beta and FBLA as a freshman and has continued her membership every year since. Cueva was a Young Georgia Authors Writing Competition winner as a ninth grader, and from 10th grade onward, she has been a member of both TSA and 21st Century Leaders. Her junior year, she won the Certificate of Merit Award. As a senior, she became a member of student council, the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board, and the Emanuel County Student Advisory Board. She plans to attend East Georgia State College and then transfer to the University of Georgia where she will be double majoring in biochemistry and psychology. Her parents are Johanna and Ashley Gay.
Diamond Alisha Daughtry, Emanuel County Institute
Throughout high school, Daughtry was a FBLA member, danceline member, homecoming court member, Beta Club member, 21st Century Leader member, yearbook staff member, and on the honor roll. Daughtry plans to attend Southeastern Technical College and take classes for sonography during the summer. In the fall of 2022, she plans to attend Kennesaw State University and major in entrepreneurship. She is the daughter of Gilbert and Mary Daughtry.
Jared Drake, Swainsboro High
Drake has been a member of Beta Club, FBLA, and student council throughout high school. He also participated in the 4-H Club’s Project S.A.F.E., 21st Century Leaders, and both marching and concert bands. He is also a member of the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board and a dual enrollment student at STC. Drake completed the pathway in business and was selected as a senior superlative by the faculty. His fellow seniors named him Most Trustworthy. He also participated in football, baseball, cross country, and tennis and was nominated for Positive Athlete Georgia. He attends youth group and services at Nunez Baptist Church. After graduation, he plans to attend STC to pursue a degree in electronics technology. His parents are Billy Joe and Donna Drake.
Justin Drake, Swainsboro High
Drake has participated in Beta Club, FBLA, Project S.A.F.E., 21st Century Leaders, and student council. He served as both reporter and vice president of the FFA chapter as well, was named a senior superlative by the faculty, and is a member of the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board, for which he enjoys leading the blessing before meals. The senior class voted him Most Involved. Drake is a dual enrollment student at STC in the welding program. He completed the Agriculture pathway and works part-time at Walmart. In the area of athletics, he played football, baseball, soccer, and ran cross country for the Tigers. He plans to enter the workforce in the area of welding. He attends the youth group and services at Nunez Baptist Church, and his parents are Billy Joe and Donna Drake.
Jariah Easterling, Swainsboro High
While at SHS, Easterling participated in FBLA, Beta Club, and student council. She also was a member of the danceline and was a basketball cheerleader, serving as captain for two years. Easterling completed the Business and Band pathways. She is certified in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. As a junior, she was chosen to represent her class on the homecoming court. She attends church at Greater Saint James Missionary Baptist Church. After graduation, she plans to attend Savannah State University to major in business management and administration. She is the daughter of Tashenia and Phillip Easterling.
Kaleb Edenfield, Swainsboro High
Edenfield is a four-year baseball player for the Tigers. He plans to continue playing for EGSC, where he will major in business, then perhaps pursue lineman school. He has been a member of FBLA and is a Red Cord Hero for his efforts related to blood donation. He participated in Work-Based Learning and completed a pathway in Business, which gave him certification in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. Edenfield is a member of the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board and was named a senior superlative by the faculty of SHS. He is the son of Brittany McCullough of Nunez.
Jimena Enriquez-Jacinto, Swainsboro High
Enriquez-Jacinto has been a member of FBLA and Beta Club, and she played soccer for the Tigers. She completed a pathway in Visual Art and is also a member of the journalism staff. She has thought about several possible career paths but has not settled on one yet, so she plans to take a gap year to be sure she makes the right decision. She attends Holy Trinity Catholic Church. Her parents are Jacob Enriquez and Leonila Jacinto.
Caitlyn Fleming, Swainsboro High
While at SHS, Fleming has been a four-year member of FBLA and Beta Club as well as the football and competition cheerleading teams, for which she served as a captain. She has been a dual enrollment student at EGSC since she was a sophomore while simultaneously completing honors classes at Swainsboro. She is a member of the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board. She completed the Business pathway and is certified in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Fleming earned the highest academic average award and the all-region award for cheerleading two different years. She has been on star honor roll every year and was part of the team who placed third at state Beta convention. She has been involved in community beautification efforts and delivers Weekend Blessings every week to Swainsboro Primary School and SHS. She was also named a senior superlative by faculty. After high school, she plans to attend Georgia Southern University to obtain a bachelor’s degree in biology, then pursue a Doctor of Pharmacy degree. She is the daughter of Chip and Melissa Fleming.
Carlton Frederick Gamble, Emanuel County Institute
In high school, Gamble was a member of FBLA, Beta Club, the football team, the basketball team, and 21st Century Leaders. He also received an Academic E, the Rick Allen Youth Summit Award, was part of the D&D provisional social skills group, and was a Department of Human Services Youth Empowerment representative. The son of Casey and Dionne Gamble, he plans to attend Georgia Southern University and major in biology.
Karime Gonzalez, Emanuel County Institute
While in high school, Gonzalez participated in dual enrollment, the marching and concert bands, TSA, Beta, and 21st Century Leaders, eventually becoming the club’s vice president. She was also a member of the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board and Superintendent’s Student Advisory Board. She received Star Honor Roll all four years and obtained the highest math average, third place in ELA at state Beta convention, had the highest chemistry average, was a UGA Certificate of Merit Recipient, and was named valedictorian of her class. She plans to attend Georgia Southern University and major in computer science.She is the daughter of Roberto Gonzalez and Lilia Demillon.
Landon Wade Goodman, Emanuel County Institute
Goodman had several quality years at ECI. He was a member of Beta Club, TSA, 21st Century Leaders, the varsity tennis team, and was a dual enrollment at East Georgia State College. He was also a part of the Fulford Youth Academy Leadership Summit, Citizens Bank Advisory Board, and was the Governor’s Honor Program District Representative. Goodman received the UGA Certificate of Merit, was a Georgia Scholar nominee, and was as the voted Most Intelligent senior superlative. He was also TSA’s Sergeant-at-Arms, 21st Century Leader’s co-president, and was also named STAR Student and salutatorian of his class. He plans to attend East Georgia State College where he will major in biology. He then plans to transfer to Augusta University, majoring in biology and continuing his education at the physician’s assistant school at Augusta University. He is the son of Joey and Shauna Goodman.
Jalasia Mone’ Gordon, Emanuel County Institute
Gordon was a member of Beta Club, FBLA, the basketball and football cheer squads, danceline, FCCLA, and 21st Century Leaders. She received the highest average to Introduction to Technology, the Academic E, the varsity letter award, and the Fulford Leadership Award. She was a part of East Georgia State College’s LEAD Society and Rick Allen’s Youth Summit. Additionally, Gordon was invited to state for FCCLA Sports Nutrition, all while being on honor roll. She plans to attend Ogeechee Technical College and major in sonography or radiology. She is the daughter of Willie Gordon and Julia Steele.
Travis McVeigh Griffin, Emanuel County Institute
The son of Stephen and Gay Griffin, he plans to attend a technical college and become a game designer.
Marlana Grace Griner, Emanuel County Institute
While at ECI, Griner was a member of FBLA, FFA, Beta, TSA, the AV crew, and attended the 21st Century Leadership retreat while maintaining honor roll status. She plans to attend Georgia Southern University and major in exercise science. She further plans to pursue a Ph.D. in physical therapy. She is the daughter of Brandy Stafford.
Gabriel Glyn Guest, Emanuel County Institute
Guest has been a member of JROTC throughout his high school career. The son of Crystal and Mitchell Guest, he plans on attending Georgia Military College and majoring in computer science.
Madison Hanners, Swainsboro High
During high school, Hanners has been both an honor roll and star honor roll student in addition to receiving recognition as Student of the Month. She also received awards for perfect attendance, highest average in Business and Computer Science, highest average in Family and Consumer Science, and Academic Achievement in Science. She contributes to the community through volunteer work at soup kitchens as well as the Golden Harvest Food Bank at Summertown Baptist Church. In her spare time, she enjoys archery. After graduation, Hanners plans to attend STC to pursue a career in physical therapy. Her parents are Heather Lattimer-Hanners and Thomas Hanners Sr.
Kiara Harden, Swainsboro High
While at SHS, Harden has completed both the Art and Business pathways and currently holds Microsoft Office Specialist Certification in PowerPoint and Word. After graduation, she plans to attend college to pursue a career as a pharmacist. She is the daughter of Toni Rainey and Matthew Harden.
Nathan Alexander Headrick, Emanuel County Institute
As an ECI student, Headrick was a member of the tennis team and TSA. He also received first and third in the state in Video On-Demand ninth in the state for Structural Engineering, both of which are TSA competitions. Headrick plans to attend college to pursue a career in Civil Engineering. His parents are Lori Wilkerson and Daniel Headrick.
Hagan Reed Henry, Emanuel County Institute
As a student at ECI, Henry received the Most Improved Offensive Lineman Award, was named to the first all-region team for offense in football, and received the Offensive Line Award. He plans to attend Coastal Pines Technical College to pursue a career as a lineman. His parents are Mace and Christie Henry.
Henry Willis Hobbs IV, Emanuel County Institute
During his time at ECI, Hobbs received the varsity letter award in tennis, the Academic E, a Certificate of Leadership from the Fulford Youth Leadership Academy, and a Certificate of Achievement for completion of agricultural mechanics. He was also a member of the 21st Century Leaders, the varsity tennis team, TSA, dual enrollment, and a Bobcat L.E.A.D. Society member by East Georgia State College. Hobbs was also a recipient of the University of Georgia Certificate of Merit and came in first place in On-Demand Video at the state TSA conference. He plans to attend East Georgia State College, then transfer to Georgia Southern University, majoring in mechanical engineering. He is the son of Sally and Henry Hobbs.
Millie Hooks, Swainsboro High
While a student at Swainsboro, Hooks has been a dual enrollment student at STC for the last three years. She has managed both college and high school classes as well as membership in clubs and sports. As an FFA member, she competed in various events, placing in regional and state competitions. Hooks also had the honor of representing Area 4 as a region FFA officer for two consecutive years and was a member of the Lady Tiger softball team for three years. She was named a senior superlative by the faculty and is an active member of the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board. She plans to attend GSU to obtain a degree in business administration with a minor in marketing, then pursue a job with Southern Company. Her parents are Tracy and Chandra Hooks of Nunez.
Riley Alaya Hudson, Emanuel County Institute
While at ECI, Hudson made Star Honor Roll, received the Academic E, was a member of FBLA and TSA, and was a dual enrollee. She also received an art award, first place at the region FBLA competition and fourth place at the state FBLA convention, first place at TSA state conference, and the Bobcat LEAD Award. The daughter of Brandy and Matt Lamb and Steven and Dorothy Hudson, she plans to attend Georgia Southern University and major in nursing.
Kristan Jamal Jackson, Emanuel County Institute
During Jackson’s high school career, he was on the football team, the basketball team, was an honor roll student, and a FFA member. He plans to attend college and major in health while continuing to play basketball. He is the son of Angela George.
Haley “Nicole” Johnson, Swainsboro High
While at Swainsboro, Johnson has been a member of FFA, for which she served as junior representative and vice president. She has been a dual enrollment student at STC while maintaining honor classes at SHS. Johnson completed the Business pathway with a Microsoft Office Specialist certification in PowerPoint and Excel. She also completed the Agriculture pathway with a certification in plant landscape systems. After graduation, she will be attending STC to pursue a degree in dental hygiene. She is the daughter of Wendy and Bill Johnson.
Malaysia Lockett, Swainsboro High
Lockett is a four-year member of both Beta Club and FBLA. For the latter organization, she earned third and fourth place in the area of entrepreneurship testing at region competition. She is a member of the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board and participated in the Fulford Youth Leadership Academy. Lockett is the reigning SHS homecoming queen, was named Most Involved by her peers, and was selected as a senior superlative by the faculty. She is a football, basketball, competition, and game day cheerleader. In 2021, she was listed as one of the top 30 cheerleaders in the by the Georgia Cheerleading Coaches Association and represented SHS by cheering for Team Georgia in the Border Bowl. Lockett and her competition teammates placed fifth at state last November. In basketball cheerleading, she earned Cheerleader of the Year and Leadership awards. She serves her community through blood donation and is considered a Red Cord Hero, and she has been a dual enrollment student at EGSC while maintaining honors and AP classes throughout high school. She was a member of the journalism staff and Class of 2022 Class Ring Committee alike. Lockett completed the Business pathway, earning all certifications in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. She plans to attend Columbus State University to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in nursing to pursue a career as a general nurse practitioner. She is the daughter of Shneica Moses.
Brandy Lovett, Swainsboro High
Since eighth grade, Lovett has been a member of the marching band. During her senior season, she earned the title of trumpet/high brass section leader and had a solo during Friday night football performances. Lovett has been president of FCCLA for four years; she has competed at the regional, state, and national levels and was the first person to ever compete and place at the national level from Swainsboro High’s FCCLA chapter. Lovett is a member of the Citizens Bank Advisory Board, student council, 21st Century Leaders, and the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Board. She also participated in many community service projects. She is a dual enrollment student at STC and maintained honors and AP classes at Swainsboro. After graduation, Lovett plans to attend the University of Alabama, where she will study on a pre-veterinary track and minor in psychology. After that, she plans to attend Louisiana State University to earn a doctoral degree and become a wildlife veterinarian. She is the daughter of Laura Wright and Brandon Lovett.
Aceton Lane Marsh, Emanuel County Institute
Marsh was a dual enrollment student and on the basketball team while in high school. He plans on entering the workforce after graduation and going to work at Southeastern Drilling. His parents are Heather and Zach Sherrod and Rick and Brooke Marsh.
Forrest Mills, Swainsboro High
Throughout high school, Mills has been a member of the marching band and was selected to attend a leadership course at EGSC. After graduation, he plans to attend STC to obtain HVAC and electrical certifications. His parents are Johnny and Stacy Mills.
Constance Faith Mincey, Emanuel County Institute
During her time at ECI, Mincey was ab FBLA member, a TSA member, a Citizens Bank Advisory Board member, and a football, basketball, and competition cheerleader. She also served as the treasurer and secretary of the Beta Club, vice president of FBLA, and vice president of student council. Mincey plans to attend East Georgia State College, transfer to Georgia Southern University, then major in accounting. She is the daughter of Jack and Carol Mincey.
Jenna “Blaze” Morris, Swainsboro High
While at Swainsboro, Morris has been a four-year football cheerleader and a game day/competition cheerleader. She was also a member of FFA all four years and a chapter officer for three of those. In addition, she completed the Agriculture pathway. She is a member of the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board and the Swainsboro Junior City Council. She attends Hawhammock Baptist Church and dances at All-Star Dance Academy. After graduation, she plans to attend GSU to obtain a degree in exercise science. She hopes to return to Swainsboro High and work as an athletic trainer on the same sidelines as she once cheered. Her parents are Heather Marsh and Craig Morris.
Ethan Alexander Morton, Emanuel County Institute
While at ECI, Morton was on the honor roll, part of the honor band, and a TSA member. The son of Jeannie and Chris Morton, he plans to attend Georgia Southern University and major in civil engineering.
Jada Murphy, Swainsboro High
During high school, Murphy was a member of the cross country, track, soccer, danceline, and football cheerleading teams. She is a four-year basketball player for the Lady Tigers; she was selected as captain during her junior and senior seasons. She was also selected as the region’s defensive player this year and was selected to play in the CSRA All-Star Game. She earned Microsoft certification in Word and PowerPoint and participated in many community service projects. She was selected Most Athletic by the senior class. She plans to attend Georgia State University and major in graphic design. Her parents are Jennifer Terry and Jacob Murphy.
Ohm Rupesh Patel, Emanuel County Institute
Patel has been a member of the marching band during high school and was also band captain his senior year. He plans to attend East Georgia State College and major in business administration. His parents are Brandi Moseley and Neal Patel.
Ruchit Patel, Swainsboro High
During high school, Patel has been a member of FBLA as well as TSA and earned certification in Microsoft Word and PowerPoint. He is also a dual enrollment student at EGSC while maintaining honors classes at SHS. His plans after high school are to attend GSU to earn a degree in finance. His parents are Piyush and Nitisha Patel.
Tmyra Avett Peterson, Emanuel County Institute
As a freshman and a sophomore at ECI, Peterson made honor roll. She was also an Academic E recipient as a ninth grader. As a 10th grader, she ran track. Her academic success picked up the last two years. As a junior, she made Star Honor Roll again, received an Academic E, won Franklin Memorial Library’s Black History Month poster contest, and completed her CTAE in Agriculture Science I. This year, as a senior, she made Star Honor Roll again, joined Beta, participated in Georgia Southern University’s 16th Annual Art Extravaganza, completed her CTAE in Nursery and Landscape as well as ServSafe, and solidified honor graduate status. Peterson plans to attend East Georga State College and major in liberal arts. She then plans to transfer to Georgia Southern University and major in graphic design. Her parents are Tmekka and Lavonte Peterson.
Danaria Phillips, Swainsboro High
As a student at Swainsboro, Phillips has been a member of FBLA; Beta Club, serving as secretary; and journalism, serving as chief editor. She is a member of the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board and attended the Fulford Youth Leadership Academy. She competed at the state Beta Convention and earned first place in language arts and third place in marketing and communications. Phillips also competed for FBLA and placed in financial math at the district competition. She was named Emanuel County’s DAR Good Citizen, received the University of Georgia Certificate of Merit as a junior, and was named an African American Scholar by Augusta University. She earned fourth chair as a flutist for the Georgia Music Educators Association’s Honor Band as a sophomore, and she earned distinction as an SAT Achiever for her score on the aptitude test. In addition, she reached the status of Microsoft Office Specialist in the areas of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Phillips has spent time volunteering at Franklin Memorial Library. Raised by her grandmother Mamie Phillips, she will be attending Georgia Institute of Technology to major in nuclear engineering. She aspires to work for the Department of Energy, working to change the energy industry for a safer environment.
Melanie Purcell, Swainsboro High
Throughout high school, Purcell has been a member of FBLA, Beta Club, FFA, and both football and competition cheerleading squads. She was one of the cheer captains as a senior, was named one of the top 30 cheerleaders in the state by the Georgia Cheerleading Coaches Association, and was selected to be on the Border Bowl IX cheerleading team for 2022. As a junior, Purcell received the Academic Award for the cheer squad. She is a dual enrollment student at EGSC and graduated with an associate degree on May 13. She is involved in Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society, the National Society for Leadership and Success, the National Society of High School Scholars, and the National Society for Collegiate Leadership & Achievement. She is also a member of the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board, was crowned Miss SHS in 2021, and was named a school winner for the High School Heisman. She placed at state competition with Beta Club and earned region runner-up and fifth in state competition with the cheerleading squads. Purcell is active in community service projects such as Weekend Blessings and attends Abilene Baptist Church in Augusta. After graduation, she plans to attend GSU to obtain a bachelor’s degree in nursing then continue at Augusta University to obtain a doctorate degree in nursing to become a certified registered nurse anesthetist. She is the daughter of Todd and Mandi Purcell.
Taylor Rachels, Emanuel County Institute
Over her years at ECI, Rachels has been a member of the Spirit of the Dawgs marching and concert bands and played in Janfest. She also has participated in 21st Century Leaders. She plans to attend Georgia Southern University and major in nursing. She is the daughter of Marie Lane.
Trevor Brian Radford, Emanuel County Institute
As an ECI student, Radford has been a four-year Academic E recipient as well as a four-year football player. As a freshman, he also suited up for the Bulldog baseball team. For the past three years, including this season, he played tennis as well. Radford, as a senior, won the Coach’s Award in football. He plans to attend Coastal Pines Technical College and pursue a career as a lineman. His parents include Charles and Mary Radford.
Meyah Rawls, Swainsboro High
While at Swainsboro, Rawls has participated in basketball, soccer, track and field, cross country, and flag football. Awards she received during her four years include Most Improved, Academic Award, second team all-region, and Defensive Player of the Year. Rawls is an honor roll student who participated in community service with her Lady Tiger teammates at Brown Chapel, where they fed the elderly. After graduation, she plans to attend college and major in criminal justice and continue playing basketball.
Alexis Ray, Swainsboro High
Ray is a member of Beta Club, FBLA, and is a dual enrollment student at EGSC. She played tennis and soccer for the Tigers. On the soccer team, she was captain and was named to the first all-region team. She is also a member of the concert band and danceline. Ray received highest average awards for Honors Algebra II and Spanish II. She also received Microsoft certification in Word, was crowned Miss SHS 2022, and is a member of the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board. She was named a senior superlative by the faculty. In addition, she earned the University of Georgia Certificate of Merit and was named a President’s List Scholar at EGSC. Ray serves as a volunteer in many areas through Hawhammock Baptist Church; some of the capacities she served in there include pre-school Sunday school teacher, worship leader, nursery teacher, participating in the Judgement House, and participating in the Upward basketball program. She plans to attend GSU to on a pre-med track in pursuit of a career as an orthopedic surgeon. Her parents are Marty and Angela Ray.
Zariah Reese, Swainsboro High
Throughout high school, Reese has been a member of FBLA and Beta Club. She and her Beta peers will compete at National Beta Convention in Nashville this summer in the area of living literature. Reese has also dedicated five years to the SHS color guard and Band of Gold; she served as co-captain her junior and senior years. She was also a basketball cheerleader for two years, being awarded Most Spirited for the 2020-2021 season. Reese is a dual enrollment student at EGSC and completed the Business pathway with certifications in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. She is also a member of the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board. After graduation, she plans to attend Clark Atlanta University to major in education with a minor in business to achieve her career goal of becoming a history teacher.
She is the daughter of Princess Middleton and Charles Reese.
Savannah Reynolds, Swainsboro High
Reynolds has been active and involved in organizations at both Swainsboro High and in the community. She has been a member of FBLA throughout high school; she served as secretary her sophomore year as well as president and officer for Region 4 during both her junior and senior years. Reynolds has won several awards at the regional level and has also placed in several events at the state level, including fourth place in journalism, second place in website design, fourth place in future business leader, and fourth place in Who’s Who in FBLA. She has also been an active member of Beta Club, where she served as treasurer her sophomore year, vice president her junior year, and president her senior year. She has won several awards at the state Beta convention, including first and third place in social studies, second place in character skit, and third place in marketing and communications. Additionally, Reynolds has placed ninth in social studies at the national Beta convention. Starting in the fifth grade, Reynolds has been a loyal and involved member of 4-H. She has been named a Master 4-H’er in both Food for Health and Sport and History. She has also regularly competed in district project achievement and currently serves as president for the Emanuel County 4-H Council. Reynolds participates in a number of other activities at SHS. She has served as an elected member of the student council all four years of high school and has served as president for the past two years. She is a four-year member of the concert band as an alto saxophone player and a four-year member of the danceline. She is also a four-year member of the tennis team, playing both doubles and singles. Reynolds currently serves on the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Board and participates in dual enrollment through EGSC. She is an active in the community, serving as a participant in the 2021 Emerging County Leaders Program and is a member of the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board. She is a member of the First Baptist Church Youth Group as well as Acteens at First Baptist Church. Reynolds has participated in a variety of different community service projects, including volunteering with and donating to Weekend Blessings, assisting at the local primary and elementary schools with STEM nights, literacy nights, and Read Across America Days, raising awareness for and donating to the March of Dimes, organizing holiday gift bags for local nursing homes, and assisting at local blood drives. Reynolds has also worked throughout high school at various locations, including the Emanuel County Board of Commissioners’ Office, the Emanuel County Solicitor’s Office, the Emanuel County Board of Education, and RadioJones Broadcasting. Reynolds received several highest average awards including Honors World History, Honors 9th Grade Literature, AP U.S. History, Accounting I, and Spanish II. She is certified in both Microsoft Word and Excel and has completed a pathway in Accounting. She has also been an avid writer and has competed in several writing competitions throughout high school; she is a school, district, regional, and state winner for the Young Georgia Authors Writing Competition. She also won the DAR District Essay Contest in 2020 and 2022. She wrote an article that was featured for publication in the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia quarterly magazine, was named a semifinalist in social studies for the Governor’s Honors Program in 2021, and was the district nominee for the United States Senate Youth Program for both her junior and senior years. She was also selected for the 2021 Altamaha EMC Youth Tour and the Pineland FRS Washington Youth Tour for the summer of 2022. Savannah was named an ACT/SAT Achiever and a Georgia Scholar. Additionally, she is a recipient of the University of Georgia Certificate of Merit and was named a Coca-Cola Scholar semifinalist. She is this year’s STAR Student for SHS and Emanuel County and was also named Exchange Club Youth of the Year for Emanuel County. She was named a senior superlative by the faculty, and her fellow seniors voted her Most Intellectual. The daughter of Brett and Selena Reynolds, she plans to attend University of Georgia, majoring in both history and communications studies. Following undergraduate school, she hopes to attend the University of Georgia School of Law and specialize in intellectual property with a focus on trademark and copyright law, and historic preservation.
Terry Hoage Reynolds, Emanuel County Institute
As a high schooler at ECI, Reynolds has made both Star Honor Roll (his ninth and 10th grade years) and Honor Roll (his 11th and 12th grade years). He participated in the 4-H Club’s modified trap team starting as a sophomore onward and was a member of ECI’s inaugural wrestling team. He also played football as a sophomore and junior. During his freshman year, Reynolds received the coveted Academic E award. He plans to attend Georgia Southern University and major in mechanical engineering. He is the son of Matt and Amanda Reynolds.
Shelby Kannon Roberson, Emanuel County Institute
As a freshman, Roberson made Honor Roll, ran track, and participated in danceline. She maintained honor roll status and remained a part of the danceline as a sophomore. Her junior year, Roberson made Star Honor Roll and was named captain of the danceline, an honor she kept as a senior. She also made Honor Roll this year and solidified honor graduate status. In the future, she plans to attend Southeastern Tech and major in nursing. Her parents include Benji and Heather Roberson.
Natavus Dequan Robertson, Emanuel County Institute
Beginning as a ninth grader, Robertson has been active in many aspects of high school. He received Star Honor Roll and Academic E alike, played football and was named to the all-region team, played baseball, and joined Beta. As a sophomore, he repeated all of those honors and added an award for running back as well as a Positive Athlete Georgia nomination. As a junior, Robertson made Star Honor Roll, dually enrolled at East Georgia State College, won an FCA award, was named to the all-region football team again, received an academic award for football, stayed in Beta, and continued to play baseball. This year, as a senior, he was named Mr. ECI, won the DAR Good Citizen Award, won homecoming king, was named again to the all-region football team, won the Eddie Badie Memorial Award and the Golden Helmet Award for football, received another academic award for football, ran track, and solidified honor graduate status. He plans to attend Fort Valley State University and major in animal science. His parents include Latoya and Nathan Robertson.
Adam Lanier Sanders, Emanuel County Institute
As a student at ECI, Sanders has participated in TSA and FBLA alike. He also solidified honor graduate status. He plans to attend East Georgia State College after graduation, and his parents include Jim and Kimmy Sanders.
Blake Duncan Sanders, Emanuel County Institute
Like his brother, Adam Lanier Sanders, Blake Duncan Sanders has participated in TSA and FBLA while at ECI. He, too, plans to attend East Georgia State College in the future. His parents are Jim and Kimmy Sanders.
Payne Ripley Sanders, Emanuel County Institute
Throughout his four years at ECI, Sanders has been a member of the Bulldog football team as well as the school’s FFA chapter. As a junior, he was named an honorable mention on the all-region offensive team for football. His honors extended to include, as a senior, a Beta Club inductee, an honor graduate, and an honorable mention on the all-region defensive team for football. He plans to attend East Georgia State College and in biology to pursue a career as a physician’s assistant. John and Brandi Sanders are his parents.
Ti’tianna Settles, Swainsboro High
Settles was born in Washington County. She has had a love of science and nature, leading her to join the Sci-Fries Club at Swainsboro Middle. She enjoyed the focus of the club by helping the school and town recycle and leave the smallest carbon footprint possible. At Swainsboro High, she was a member of the Unarmed Drill team and enjoyed participating in parades. Academically, she earned accounting basics achievement and Microsoft Word certification. She plans to join the U.S. Navy and earn a degree in accounting. Her parents are Adrian and Charles Walker.
Savannah Skipper, Swainsboro High
During high school, Skipper has been a member of the color guard, soccer team, and the bass fishing team. She was also a member of TSA and FBLA and holds certifications in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. After graduation, she plans to attend STC and gain certification in mechanics with hopes of pursuing a future working in big industry mechanics. She is the daughter of Christa Braswell.
Brandy “Alayna” Stapleton, Swainsboro High
During high school, Stapleton has been a member FFA, FBLA, and Beta Club. She has represented her local FFA chapter as president for the past two years and played softball as a freshman. She is a dual enrollment student at EGSC and completed both Business and Agriculture pathways. After graduation, she plans to attend Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College to pursue a bachelor’s degree in biology on a pre-veterinary track with a minor in animal science. She then plans to attend University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. Her parents are Meagan and Steven Stapleton.
Leola Taylor, Swainsboro High
As a student at Swainsboro, Taylor has been a member of the danceline, is an honor roll recipient, and completed the Business pathway. She is certified as a Microsoft Office Specialist in PowerPoint, Word, and Excel. She has enlisted in the US Army and will leave less than two weeks after graduation for basic combat training. She then plans to attend Georgia Military College to become an Army National Guard officer and pursue a career in business and finance. She is the daughter of Sharunda Davis and Joe Taylor Jr.
Rafael Silva-Tomas, Emanuel County Institute
As an ECI student, Silva-Tomas has been named to the honor roll all four years. He also had perfect attendance as a freshman and sophomore, and he solidified honor graduate status as a senior. His plans after graduation are to find a job and start working. He is the son of Juan Silva and Maria Tomas.
Karem Amiah Thompson, Emanuel County Institute
Thompson’s ninth grade honors include being a Star Honor Roll student, an Academic E recipient, a varsity cheerleader, a member of the track team, a member of FCCLA and Beta, being chairman of FBLA, and placing second at the region FBLA competition. As a sophomore, she made Star Honor Roll again and received the Academic E for the second time running. She became captain of the danceline, remained a member of FBLA, and kept her position as an FBLA officer. Thompson stayed on Star Honor Roll as a junior and received a third Academic E. That same year, she had the highest average in U.S. History, continued to lead the danceline as captain, joined 21st Century Leaders and TSA alike, stayed in FBLA, Beta, and FCCLA, and ran track again. During her senior year, she maintained Star Honor Roll status, received her fourth consecutive Academic E, was named to the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Board, was a student council member, kept her membership in FBLA, Beta, FCCLA, and 21st Century Leaders, cheered on the competition, football, basketball, and sideline cheer squads, for which she led devotions. She plans to attend East Georgia State College, then transfer to Augusta University majoring in nursing. Her ultimate goal is to pursue a career as a nurse practitioner. She is the daughter of Jessica Thompson and Geraldo Wesley and the granddaughter of Janelle Langley.
Jayla Travett, Swainsboro High
During high school, Trivet has been a member of FBLA and Beta Club. For the latter organization, she won the first place title in digital art at the state convention in 2021. She is a member of the Band of Gold danceline, for which she is captain of the color guard. Travett has participated in dual enrollment at EGSC while maintaining honors classes at SHS. She has also been named a senior superlative by the faculty of SHS. She was also recognized as an African American Scholar by Augusta University and earned her Microsoft Office Specialist Certificate in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. She helped organize the black history program for SHS and is a member of Quill & Scroll Honor Society. She earned the title of chief editor for her work in journalism. After graduation, Travett will continue at EGSC, then transfer to GSU to obtain a degree in nursing. She plans to work in NICU and labor/delivery. Her parents are Fahnechia and Johnny Travett.
Emily Turner, Swainsboro High
Turner has been a member of Beta Club, 21st Century Leaders, and the journalism staff during her time at Swainsboro. She was also a member of JROTC and drill team, serving as class leader for two semesters. Turner received Microsoft Office certification in Word and the highest average Award in Visual Arts I. She was also named Student of the Month three times and received the American Legion Leadership Award for leadership and community involvement. Her fellow seniors named her Most Talented. After graduating from SHS, Turner plans to attend GSU to obtain a degree in Studio Art with a double minor in creative writing and criminology. She is the daughter of Joan Turner.
Jamariya Centreil Turner, Emanuel County Institute
Turner received honor roll as a freshman and a sophomore, and her junior and senior years, she received Star Honor Roll. Additionally, she is a four-year Academic E recipient and solidified honor graduate status as a senior. She plans to attend Kennesaw State University and major in business. Her parents include Stacie Bell and Triveil Turner.
Paul Warren, Swainsboro High
As a Swainsboro student, Warren is a member of Beta Club, FBLA, 21st Century Leaders, and played football and tennis for the Tigers. He played in the marching and concert bands as well and is a dual enrollment student at EGSC, where he is a member of Phi Theta Kappa. He is also a member of the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board and the salutatorian for the Class of 2022. Warren completed pathways in Business and Fine Arts. He also achieved certifications in Microsoft Word and Excel. Warren was chosen by his classmates to represent the class on the homecoming court last fall, was named a senior superlative by the faculty of SHS, and his fellow seniors voted him Most Likely To Succeed. After graduation, he will be attending UGA with plans to obtain a master’s degree in business administration.
He is the son of Magan Warren Strange and Christopher Dana Strange.
Cameron Watkins, Swainsboro High
During the past four years at SHS, Watkins has been a member of the Band of Gold, FBLA, TSA, the new team, and the new eSports team. He is a dual enrollment student at EGSC and also a Work-Based Learning student employed at Nordson. Watkins has been selected a senior superlative by the faculty, is a member of the Citizens Bank Advisory Board, and is the current president of the Technology Student Association. After graduating, he will attend GSU and major in computer engineering to fulfill his dream of working in the big tech industry. He is the son of Glen and Tammy Watkins.
Samuel White, Swainsboro High
The valedictorian for the Class of 2022, White is a member of Beta Club, FBLA, and Boy Scouts of America. Additionally, he was selected as a member of the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board. He has been a member of the Swainsboro Band of Gold marching band for three years, and he played football and tennis as a freshman. He completed the Business pathway and is certified in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. He was named a senior superlative and was selected as a finalist in the area of mathematics for the Governor’s Honors Program. White is a dual enrollment student at EGSC who, after graduating, plans to attend University of Georgia to double major in business and engineering. His career plans are to become an intellectual property lawyer or an executive business officer. His parents are John and Yelena White.
Kendall Lee Wiggins, Emanuel County Institute
All four years of high school, Wiggins has played golf for the Bulldogs, been a member of TSA and Beta. His sophomore year onward, he joined the AV crew. As a senior, Wiggins served as a Beta officer. He also solidified honor graduate status as a senior. The son of Scott and Michelle Wiggins, he plans to attend Ogeechee Technical College to earn his certificate in welding and electrical work.
Brianna N. Williams, Swainsboro High
While at Swainsboro, White has been involved in FBLA, FFA, and FCCLA. She received highest average awards in algebra, geometry, and biology and also completed Microsoft Office Certification in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. After high school, she plans to attend EGSC, then transfer to Augusta University to pursue a nursing degree. Her mother and stepfather are Stormy Scott and Robert Rankine.
Nykira Williams, Swainsboro High
As a student at Swainsboro, Williams has been a member of FBLA, Beta, and 4-H. In the area of athletics, she played basketball, soccer, and track and field. In addition, she was a member of the journalism staff, was a dual enrollment student at STC, and completed the Business pathway. She was selected for the Citizens Bank Student Advisory Board and the Teen Advisory Board for Franklin Memorial Library alike. In addition, Williams spends time on community projects, such as feeding the elderly at Brown Chapel, church projects like dancing, and speaking at her home church McLeod Covenant Baptist Church and other houses of worship. After graduation, she plans to attend Georgia State University to major in criminal justice and minor in psychology. Her career goal is to be a federal agent. She is the daughter of Lasteefa Smiley and Nicholas Williams.
Semya Iesha Williams, Emanuel County Institute
As a freshman at ECI, Williams received the Academic E; joined FBLA, FCCLA, and Beta; was a member of the region championship softball team that made it to the Sweet 16 and Elite 8; and was a member of the school’s region runner-up track team. Her sophomore year, she remained a member of FBLA, Beta, FCCLA; played on the softball team that won region again, made it to the Sweet 16, Elite 8, and the Final 4; and ran on the track team, which finished region runner-up for the second consecutive time. Williams, as a junior, became dually enrolled at East Georgia State College while maintaining her membership in FBLA, Beta, and FCCLA. That same year, she played on the softball team, which won region for the third time running and made it back through the GHSA playoff circuit to appear in the Final 4 again. She also received the Coach’s Award for softball as a junior, and she helped the track team back to another region runner-up finish. As an individual, she placed third at sectionals and made it to state. Williams solidified honor graduate status as a senior; kept her membership in FBLA, Beta, and FCCLA; became a Work-Based Learning student; won the Winningest Senior Class Award; and played on the softball team, which won its region for a fourth time running and made it back to the Final 4. She was also tapped for the second all-region team in softball, received the Most Improved Award, helped the track team pick up a fourth consecutive region runner-up title, and played on the school’s inaugural flag football team, winning the defensive MVP award. The daughter of Sarah and Sam Williams, she plans to attend Brewton-Parker College and major in sports exercise.
Zaren Elizabeth Williford, Emanuel County Institute
During her career at ECI, Williford has made Star Honor Roll every year. She is also a four-year Beta Club, FCCLA, and FFA member. As a sophomore, she won third at the state FCCLA competition for Food Innovation. As a junior, Williford joined TSA as well as 21st Century Leaders, became dually enrolled at East Georgia State College, and joined the Work-Based Learning program. She plans to attend East Georiga State College and transfer to Georgia Southern University, where she will major in nursing. She is the daughter of Brad Williford and Keila Scott.
Amber Wilson, Swainsboro High
Throughout high school, Wilson has been in FBLA and is a four-year member of the Band of Gold marching and concert bands. As a senior, she was one of the drum majors for the marching band. She is a dual enrollment student at STC and received Microsoft Office Specialist certification in Word. She was named a senior superlative by the faculty and plans to attend Brewton-Parker College as an exercise science major after graduation. She intends to further her education at Augusta University to pursue a degree and career as a physical therapist. Her parents are Buck Wilson and the late Deborah Wilson.