Crowning achievement: Charles City grads best odds to celebrate

Charles City graduates prepare to move their tassels from right to left at the conclusion of Saturday morning graduation ceremonies.

Andre' Jones photos

Knowing your self-worth and hitting milestone achievements was a message delivered Saturday morning to Charles City High School’s Class of 2023.

Forty-eight graduates were recognized as part of commencement ceremonies. But the journey hasn’t been an easy one for a class that has seen rough times during their last three years of high school.

“I am super proud of you,” said Senior Class President Jadan Adkins. “I can’t wait to see what life has for you.”

Salutatorian Henry Lotz told his fellow classmates that going to school wasn’t just about academic accolades.

“Don’t overlook the friendships that we have formed,” he said. “We were met with numerous challenges and will face some in the future. We need to embrace the opportunities we have with open arms.”

Charles City High School Valedictorian Kayla King told her classmates that they were unique and special.

“We made it, and we overcame struggles,” she said. “You have the power to make a positive difference in someone’s life.”

Charles City High School Principal Anita Harper commented that while the Class of 2023 has seen her soft side, she wanted to deliver a stern message as they began the next phase in their life.

“Always remember what you learned and be ready to grasp the torch with your hand,” she said, challenging each graduate to take control of their fate. “Lead by example, work hard, and never give up on your dreams.”

For keynote speaker Jessica Hill, a 2014 graduate of Charles City High School, a message of self-worth and self-love were her focal points to the next generation.

“How will you balance your crown?” she said, challenging the graduates. “Each of you carries your own crown.

“For the young ladies, your crown isn’t defined by the clothes you wear or the style of your shoes, but by your character and the essence you present,” Hill continued. “For the young men, your crown wasn’t given to you by the number of touchdowns you scored or the number of points you put in the basket, but it was given to you to break the hidden stigmas and to be a role model to young men and rise up.

“What environment are you in and who you interact with will determine your crown,” she added as she wrapped up her speech. “There will be people who want to help you balance your crown with pride or tilt it. You can either hang out with people who motivate to mold you to be greater, or people who manipulate you and hold you [back].”

Charles City School Board Chairman Rodney Tyler spoke about the Class of 2023’s challenges.

“As sophomores, you were behind a computer. When you became juniors, you had to become reacquainted with the classroom environment. As seniors, you all lost a classmate and had to bond together. But you all did it, and I am proud of the Class of 2023.”

Superintendent of Schools Dalphine Joppy used an acronym to wrap up the commencement ceremony.

“We always talk about ‘Panther Pride’ and what it is, but let me tell you what it means,” she said. “P means prepare; prepare to put in the work. R is for remember; Remember who you are and where you came from.

“I is for involve; involve yourself in opportunities to give back,” Joppy continued. “D is for do what’s right. Finally, E is for exude; exude in excellence in all that you do.”

Stella Smith (right) gets her photography skills in check as she snaps a selfie to commemorate the moment.

Charles City High School Principal Anita Harper jumps in with the graduating young ladies for a group picture prior to the ceremony.

Joelle Griffiths-Duncan is moved to tears as she cries after walking across stage.

Charles City High School Class of 2023 President Jadan Adkins (left) presents Christine Bradby a diploma in memory of her son, Michael Holloway III, who passed away last year in a car accident.

Jordyn Bradby is joined by his mother Lakisha as he enjoys the spotlight after graduation ceremonies have concluded.

It’s a great day to be a twin as brother and sister combo of Kaytlynn Branch (left) and Marcel Branch (right) embrace relatives to mark the day.

Twins Janiah (seated) and Janae Bradby are joined by brothers Jaelen and Jordan in a celebratory sibling snapshot.

Randy Brown Jr. is joined outside by family members for a photo opportunity.