The power of choice helps New Kent graduates reach milestone, prepare for future journey

New Kent High School’s Class of 2025 arrives in the arena to a standing ovation from family, friends, faculty, and staff members.

Andre' Jones photos

Decision-making is what allowed New Kent High School’s Class of 2025 to congregate inside of Kaplan Arena on the campus of the College of William and Mary during June 5 commencement ceremonies. And it will be decision-making that guides their future paths.

That was the message delivered to the 260 graduates as they celebrated their milestones in front of family and friends.

Salutatorian and senior class president Hannah Tober commented about a story she heard while watching the Softball College World Series.

“Three items were put in a boiling pot of water; a carrot, an egg, and coffee beans,” she said. “The carrot started hard but eventually got soft. The egg was soft, but it eventually hardened, and the coffee beans changed completely.”

Tober’s analogy spoke about the classes’ character, referencing how the carrot eventually folded under pressure and the egg but eventually had a hard surface to let anything through.

“But the coffee beans changed the water and made it something better,” the salutatorian added. “Which one are you?

“Let’s take the opportunity to show the world who we are and let’s be coffee beans,” Tober continued as she began wrapping up her speech. “The coffee beans provided warmth and flavor through its transformation. Adversity doesn’t define us, our response does.”

Valedictorian Olivia Allen spoke about the challenges the Class of 2025 faced and the choices they made throughout the journey.

“Because of you and your impact, I have become a better person,” she said as she thanked her classmates. “I want you to live life with integrity and honor.

“When one door closes, another one opens,” Allen continued. “Never forget those who helped you meet your goals.”

New Kent Superintendent of Schools Brian Nichols raved about the achievements of the Class of 2025, including amassing 2,225 college credits.

“You all are the innovators, leaders, and problem solvers,” he commented. “Sixty-nine percent of you are going to continue your pursuit in education, 26 percent of you are going into the work force, and five percent of you are making the selfless sacrifice to serve this great country.

“The world is waiting for the contributions you can make,” Nichols added. “We can’t wait to see the incredible things you can do.”

New Kent High School Allison Strickland spoke about the milestones and how choices placed graduates in their seats.

“You reached this milestone not by chance, but by the choices and effort you made,” she said. “That is the power of choice.

“You made the choice to keep going, to work harder, to surround yourself by people you love, and the decision to be the best version of yourself,” Strickland continued. “Your choices shaped your destiny, and it opened up your next opportunity with purpose confidence.

“But your choice will take a greater significance,” the principal added. “It will force you to change your mind, and there is nothing wrong with making a new choice. You all will encounter challenges, but whether you made the choice in enrollment, enlistment, or employment, you are the sum of your choices.

“Remain true to yourself and don’t compromise your integrity,” Strickland said as she wrapped up her speech. “Stay grounded in your purpose. Today is a reflection of all the choices you made.”

The trio of (l to r) Trey Brooks, Henry Burrage, and Ashton Chelluck pose for a quick picture prior to grand entrance.

Chloe Higgins (right) makes the final adjustments of her cap as classmate Amore’ Brown (left) makes sure the final look is acceptable.

New Kent graduates navigate the corridors as they prepare for their grand entry during the June 5 ceremony.

Carel Jones hits a couple of dance moves as he struts across the stage after he hears his name called.

Ava Yingling (right) is greeted by New Kent High School Principal Allison Strickland (left) as part of the graduation ceremony recognition.

Saniyah Barnes (right) signs for her diploma to take home at the conclusion of the ceremony.

After the ceremony, Cassidy Branch receives love and flowers from family members as the moment is captured in picture form.

Kenneth McCall is nearly moved to tears as his family reunites with him after the end of the graduation commencement.