News for New Kent County and Charles City County, Virginia | June 12, 2026
Community
Charles City Class of 2026 instructed to never give up, learn from challenges
The message given Saturday morning to 31 members of Charles City High School’s Class of 2026 was simple: Life isn’t easy, but don’t give up. Those words echoed through Charles City High School’s gymnasium in front of family, friends, and community members as cheers supported the new graduates as part of commencement ceremonies. As the Class of 2026 sat attentively, messages of building character and never caving in when pressure seems to put them in uncomfortable situations. “Some of you have moments when you questioned yourself, your future, and your worth, and whether you would even make it to this…
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Charles City High School Class of 2026 Valedictorian: Nina Cannada
Nina Cannada posted a grade-point average of 4.0 as valedictorian for Charles City High School’s Class of 2026. She is a member of the National Honor Society, Charles City High School Softball Team, Charles City High School Volleyball Team, and a member of the Chickahominy Indian Tribe. Nina will be attending Longwood University and plans to major in education with an emphasis in elementary education and plans to become an elementary school teacher. She is the daughter of Lin and Erica Cannada.
Charles City High School Class of 2026 Salutatorian: James Black IV
James Black IV is salutatorian of Charles City High School’s Class of 2026 with a grade-point average of 3.7. James plans to take a year off from school before entering into a college of his choice and pursuing a major of his desire. He is the son of James and Angela Black.
Charles City County High School Class of 2026
Damian Barnes Jr. Teonna Bey James Black IV Madison Bradby Chayse Brinkley Javonni Brown Nina Cannada Cheyenne Chrisitan Dylan Crawley Devin Crewe Jr. Abigail Curtis Logan Curtis Antoine Grant Jr. Alanye Greene Hailey Gribble Leah Hall James Harris IV Melody Harris Raizen Hilliard Jr. Marissa Jackson Endya Johnson Makayla Jordan Ke’Asia Meekins Ke’Vonta Meekins Jaela Smith Adrirenne Tabb Nila Thigpen Victor Torrence II Max Van-Sprouse Jamie-Nicole Walker Zyquon Williams
Letter to the Editor: Says social media moderation shouldn’t be controlled by handful of people
I respectfully write to express concern about the moderation practices of certain groups on social media. I was recently removed from a group despite not violating any posted rules. What concerns me the most is that the same individuals who moderate that group also moderate larger community groups that many county residents rely on for information and discussion. Community groups should encourage open dialogue and the respectful exchange of ideas. Instead, it appears that opinions or viewpoints with which moderators personally disagree are often deleted, blocked, or removed. When a small group of people control the conversation and decide which…
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Six local students complete studies at Brightpoint Community College
Six local students were recognized by Brightpoint Community College for either earning degrees or career certificates as part of the college’s Class of 2026 commencement ceremony. Three students from Charles City were among the graduating class. Raven Allen earned an Associate of Applied Science Degree in business management. Baylee Crewe earned an Associate of Applied Science Degree in early childhood development, and Skylar Torrence earned an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing. New Kent graduates include Abena Ennin, who earned an Associate of Science Degree in general studies, Willard Hicks who earned an Associate of Applied Science Degree in…
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Ashley named to Dean’s List at Shenandoah University
William Ashley, a Providence Forge resident has been named to the Dean’s List at Shenandoah University for the Spring 2026 term. To be named to the list, a student must be enrolled full-time and earn a grade-point average of 3.5 or higher.
New Kent High School’s Class of 2026 instructed to take reins of their own future
New Kent High School’s Class of 2026 is kicking off the next phase of life with plans to work harder and encouraged to live their own life. That was the message delivered to 245 graduates during the May 21 commencement ceremony at the Henrico Sports Complex in front of family and supporters. Senior Class President Adam Ayala spoke about the support they received throughout the years. “Tonight, is much more than a formal ceremony,” he began. “It’s a celebration of growth, unforgettable memories, and the journey that has brought us to this moment. “Your support has made a difference in…
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New Kent High School’s Class of 2026 Valedictorian- Lily Newman
Lily Newman posted a grade-point average of 4.6519 as valedictorian of New Kent High School’s Class of 2026. She is a member of the National Honor Society, BETA Club, and National Technical Honor Society. Lily will be attending Old Dominion University where she plans to double major in Computer Science and Cyber Security. She is the daughter of Michael and Amy Newman.
New Kent High School’s Class of 2026 Salutatorian- Sophia Ward
Sophia Ward is salutatorian of New Kent High School’s Class of 2026 with a grade-point average of 4.59. She is a member of the National Honor Society, BETA Club, NAACP, the Senior Representative to the PTSO, President of the Peter Club, and the Debate Club. Sophia will be attending the University of Virginia and plans to major in Neuroscience in her quest to become a neurosurgeon. She is the daughter of Billy and Stephanie Ward.
