Charles City High School 2015 graduates dubbed ‘Class of Conquerors’

Charles City graduate and former drum major Jesse Bradby high-steps his way across the stage while classmate Sarah Matrood tries to hold her elation and smile in during May 29 graduation ceremonies at Charles City High School.

Andre' Jones photos

Overcoming every obstacle from Standards of Learning (SOL) testing and a sharp change of curriculum, graduates of Charles City High School were deemed a “Class of Conquerors” by outgoing school principal Stephannie Crutchfield.

Fifty members of Charles City High School’s Class of 2015 received advice from Virginia State Sentator A. Donald McEachin during May 29 commencement ceremonies. And even McEachin admitted that what he gave was already known by the graduates.

“The things that took you here to graduate will get you through the rest of your life,” the state senator said.

McEachin offered three points of emphasis in his address to the Class of 2015, focusing on the roots and foundations they have forged in the past to help them in future journeys.

“The first thing is to have commitment to what you do,” he said. “You’re going to have to get over hurdles at points in life.

“Always believe in something bigger than yourself,” McEachin continued. “Believe in your guide. Believe in your family.

“The second thing is to have prioritization in your life,” he said. “Find out what’s important to you.

“Finally, don’t forget love,” McEachin said as he wrapped up his speech. “You must have love, whether it’s for your family, your friend, or your job, you must have love for something. Don’t forget love.”

Class president Taylor Bradby offered words of encouragement to outgoing peers.

“Every obstacle that we overcame here in high school was just a new experience for us to prepare for the unknown,” she said. “Make the world remember Charles City’s class of 2015.”

Salutatorian Vanessa Adkins commented about the immense talent and skill set classmates possess to impact society.

“I see world changers when I look out here,” she said. “We know this is not a goodbye.

“As a former softball coach told me, the most important play is the next play; it’s time for us to make the next play,” she concluded.

Class valedictorian Caylin Stewart offered words of advice that applied to all within earshot during the ceremony.

“The time we had together has moulded us into who we are today,” Stewart said. “It’s been a long, short four years.

“Those instances and experiences make these moments like tonight more memorable,” she continued. “As we go into our separate ways, just remember this; don’t spend too much time looking for the perfect opportunity that you end up missing the right opportunity.”

Crutchfield praised the accomplishments of the Class of 2015.

“This class has had the most students graduate with a 4.0 grade-point average or higher than the last three years combined,” she said. “This is my ‘class of conquerors’ and you all have conquered every challenge put in front of you.”

Superintendent of schools David Gaston also sent praise, emphasizing that graduates go out and see who has aided them in their journey.

“Turn around,” he instructed students to face the audience. “Give your family, your friends, your supporters applause because they were there with you every step of the way.

“Congratulations to you and the best of luck in wherever you go, Whether it’s higher education, vocational education, to serve our country, or the work force, go out and represent as Charles City High School’s class of 2015.”

This year’s class earned $519,564 in scholarship and award money.

The selfie craze is in full effect for graduates as Da’Vondria Jefferson and Shawn Burks Jr. capture the moment.

Meanwhile class salutatorian Vanessa Adkins, takes the trend one step further, pulling out a ‘selfie stick’ and snapping her own group photo.

In more traditional preparation, Adam Daniels (right) helps Walter Gordon put the finishing touches on his tie.

Colin Jones’ mortarboard centers around his array of handy work.

(L to R) DeMonte’ Greene, KeMondre’ Greene, Jessica Harris, Jestin Harris, Alex Daniels, and Adam Daniels make up three sets of twins who graduated during May 29 ceremonies.

Q’Nique Cotman poses with cousins as family members prepare for the photo opportunity.

Tamea Delaney is all smiles as she has her hands full with balloons and love during a picture with her family.

Old Dominion University bound Thomas Kelly smiles as more family members photograph the special occasion.