The 2024-2025 school year comes to a close this week with area graduations rolling out.
GRADUATION SCHEDULE
Leon County Schools will honor the 2025 class of graduating seniors with ceremonies at the Tucker Civic Center, 505 W. Pensacola St. Here’s a roundup of area graduation times and locations. Look for the print edition listing the names of graduates, valedictorians and salutatorians and more in the Sunday, May 18, newspaper.
Wednesday, May 13
6 p.m. – Tallahassee Collegiate Academy, Performing Art Center, Tallahassee State College
Thursday, May 15
7 p.m. – Gretchen Everhart, Generations Church
Friday, May 16
7: 30 p.m. – Maclay School, Frank Shaw Field
6 p.m. – Leon County Virtual School, Chiles High School
7 p.m. – North Florida Christian School, North Florida Baptist Church Auditorium
Saturday, May 17
2 p.m. FAMU DRS, Lee Hall Auditorium
Sunday, May 18
2 p.m. – St. John Paul II Catholic School, Good Shepherd Catholic Church
Tuesday, May 20
7 p.m. – Lincoln High School, Tucker Civic Center, 505 W. Pensacola St.
Wednesday, May 21
7 p.m. – Rickards High School, Tucker Civic Center, 505 W. Pensacola St.
Thursday, May 22
6 p.m. – SAIL High School in the Lee Hall Auditorium, Florida A&M University, 1601 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
7 p.m. – Godby High School, Tucker Civic Center, 505 W. Pensacola St.
6:30 p.m. – Crossroad Academy, CEDO Field, Quincy
8 p.m. – Wakulla High School, Jones Stadium
Friday, May 23
6 p.m. – Gadsden County High School, Football Stadium
6:30 p.m. – Community Christian School, school auditorium
7 p.m. – Florida State University School – Donald Tucker Civic Center
Saturday, May 24
10 a.m. – Leon High School, Tucker Civic Center, 505 W. Pensacola St.
3 p.m. – Chiles High School, Tucker Civic Center, 505 W. Pensacola St.
6 p.m. – Aucilla Christian Academy, Aucilla Christian Academy
Quotes and hopes from valedictorians and salutatorians, honors students
Chiles High School
Valedictorian Hadriel Hamid: Throughout high school, I’ve tackled community disparities with bold, innovative solutions. At the University of California, Berkeley, I hope to expand these efforts in Silicon Valley, pursuing a career in business and finance to address market inefficiencies and increase access to investment tools, helping build a more equitable and sustainable future.
Salutatorian Lillian Zhang: In five years, I plan to attend medical school after graduating from the United States Military Academy at West Point with a Life Sciences degree. I aim to become a military doctor serving soldiers and veterans, while also continuing my college tennis career as a graduate student.
Godby High School
Valedictorian Tolulope Binitie: I see myself working through med school to get to my goal of being an OB/GYN. I hope that in that time I have made a lot of self-improvement and overall progress on myself too. I just hope I’m an overall newer person that I can be proud of.
Salutatorian Andre Williams: In five years, I see myself working hard and continuing my stride towards my dreams. I want to go into law after college so I will most likely still be in school in the next five years. In those five years, I hope to have learned a lot more about myself and those around me, while maintaining my joy!
SAIL High School
Valedictorian: Liam Hundley
Salutatorian: Katherine Zurko
HONORS GRADUATES:Coleman, Jefferson Sofia AgnesHundley, Liam NelsonEggers, Andrew JosephMirowitz, Macey LaineRoberts, Corbin JacobLefils-Roberts, Olivia LucilleKim, Elizabeth Dallas MyungMarder, Presley RyderZurko, Katherine EliseStolley Villanueva, Marina AuroraColeman, Kendall GraceLowe, Jacob DrewLuke, Malcolm ThomasMcConnell, Liam AdamsEdwards, Elijah EzekielFuselier, Rex JosephKlutsey, Victory EtornamHazen, Ellen Marie (EliCalhoun, Malisa ShelleBaumann, Bruce Ashley JordanHayes, Kayla NicoleJacoby, Kori Anna LuzRutherford, Jabari Matthew JerimiahWhitehurst, AlexandraGarnier, Charlotte SnowVon Chamier, Tristan AshlyConiglio, Katherine OliviaHall, Genevieve MellaJacobson, Rachael RebeccaMaynard, Lillie MarieMoseley, DajonLeo, Lyrica AissaMcVicker, Aaliyah ElizabethThompson, Tema LucetteMaple, Ryleigh DonnaCalvert, Sophia MarieCook, Allison ElizabethLee, Madison PaigeThomas, Nora KayleeAmort-Murphy, Autumn DesabellaGauding, Sophia ElizabethGreen, Emily KayToluba, Natalie Grace
Florida State University School
Summa Cum Laude Allbaugh, Cole JacobBauer, Alyssa GraceBissell, Caitilin JoleneBushong, Allyson KarenEttore, Augustus EvansFinnemore, Sean RhysFrancis, Trinity LeeGrulich, Avery ClaireHarley, Matthew DavisJain, Anjali KurtzNortelus, Savannah JaneSankuratri, Srivani LalithaSimons, Amber RoseSuarez, Isabella AlexisThompson, Camryn Nicole EliseWard, Zyra LaneseWemm, Samuel Raymond
Magna Cum Laude Brooks, Sofia LorraineCook, Taylor RaeDuck, Annabel KateFiles, Ava NicoleFlury, Keegan CatalanoFonseca, Analise CristinaGelvez, Amanda MarieKyvik, Benjamin CurtisLangston, Austin RobertMerkel, Bryson WayneRieder, Gabriella JoySuarez, Juan PabloTalevich, Olivia GraceThreatts, Jayden AveryTorres, Elias Cruz
Cum Laude Andrew, Clare ElizabethBaggerly, Rachel AnnBrown, Collin MatthewCarlson, Ivy VictoriaCotterall, Avery LynnCrawford, Brooklynn AlexisFriemoth, Madalyn GraceHernandez, Jamileth AbigailKruger, Alyssa ClaireLayerd, Shaw DuncanLilly, Tori MichellePeavy, Bryson JeremyYoung, Zachariah Brian
FAMU DRS
Valedictorian Raven Simmons: In five years, I envision myself having made significant progress toward my goal of improving the environment. I will have earned a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and hope to be in a position where I am designing sustainable products. My goal is to make meaningful contributions to preserving nature.
Salutatorian McClain Stroud: In the next five years, I see myself with a bachelor of science degree in Cardiopulmonary Science from Florida A&M University and working as a respiratory therapist before starting a master’s degree in physician assistant studies.
Wakulla High School
Valedictorian Sydney Peddicord: In 5 years, I see myself working on obtaining my doctorate in physical therapy. I hope by then to have established myself as a reputable athletic/performance coach for athletes and am furthering my education for sport injury prevention rather than treatment. I see myself either working for a gym as a trainer at that time or for a sports team as their trainer. I am focused on my personal and career goals for this time period, such as furthering my education and my progress in bodybuilding.
Salutatorian Chloe Kennedy: In five years, I see myself as a graduate of Florida State University and a local environmental engineer, helping the community to the best of my ability. With my savings and job earnings, I hope to purchase a decent apartment nearby. I also will continue volunteering in animal-related service organizations, as I harbor a deep passion for the wildlife around us.
Community Christian School
Valedictorian Katelyn Pye: In five years, I plan to graduate from Florida State University with my master’s degree in elementary education. I would like to look for a job somewhere on the East Coast, either in Florida, Georgia, or the Carolinas. My desire is to settle down and start a family in a home in the countryside.
Salutatorian Catharine Munson: In five years, I see myself attending medical school — hopefully at the University of Alabama at Birmingham — to pursue a career in pediatric ophthalmology. I am excited to contribute to research and help expand access to quality eye care for underprivileged communities across Alabama.
Lincoln High School
Valedictorian Sujin van Hoeij: In five years, I see myself starting grad school, gaining practical legal experience, and working towards becoming a licensed attorney with a secure foundation from my bachelor’s degree in Psychology.
Salutatorian Han Thai: In 5 years, I see myself hopefully living somewhere in New York City and in graduate school for an MBA.
Rickards High School, honors grads
Sagar Bhat: (Carnegie Mellon University): In five years, I plan to complete my undergraduate degree and fully immerse myself in the expansive world of computer science. I am eager to uncover new interests—from pushing the boundaries of machine learning to unlock its untapped potential, to further refining my passion for game development, where creativity meets technology.
Sukeerth Goly (Carnegie Mellon University): In five years, I envision myself at the intersection of finance and technology. Leveraging my computer science degree, I aim to develop innovative trading algorithms that harness data analytics, machine learning, and algorithmic strategies to excel in the financial markets.
Shravan Kambham (Carnegie Mellon University): In five years, I envision myself as an ever-curious computer science enthusiast, continuously broadening my technical expertise while making a tangible impact in the tech industry. I plan to leverage every opportunity—be it hands-on projects or insights from inspiring peers—to deepen my understanding and fuel my growth.
Terry Lin (Harvard University): In five years, I envision having earned my bachelor’s degree and advancing in a career that allows me to travel with my family. I look forward to exploring new cultures, embarking on exciting adventures, and savoring diverse cuisines along the way.
Tanmay Natani (University of Florida): In the next five years, despite the many uncertainties that lie ahead, I am determined to pursue a path toward medicine. I see myself attending medical school, marking a critical step toward my ultimate goal of becoming a doctor of medicine.
Anish Saha (Carnegie Mellon University): I plan to create a balanced lifestyle by embracing healthier habits and pursuing my passions. I envision raising a dachshund—teaching them playful tricks and enjoying their companionship. Equally, I’m excited to dive into more books and invest time in writing. I’m determined to master cooking shorshe illish (Bengali fish dish). Hopefully, I’ll pursue a graduate school.
Vaneesha Sinha (Carnegie Mellon University): Five years from now, I’ll have a Chemistry degree from CMU, be pursuing materials science at the graduate level, taking my piano and vocals to new heights, and sharing my narrative in both research and fiction.
Jacob Sperber (University of Florida): In five years, I see myself in graduate school pursuing an advanced degree in engineering. I want to stay in school for at least 8 more years and become an engineering expert. I also see myself working as a paid intern for a major company.
Vibav Tammisetti (Johns Hopkins University): In five years, I envision graduating from Johns Hopkins in Biomedical Engineering, getting ready to pursue either medical school or a research-focused field.
Olivia Zeng (Johns Hopkins University): Five years after graduating from Johns Hopkins with a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering, I envision myself working toward a Ph.D. by conducting regenerative medicine-focused research. My goal is to aid in the creation of innovative treatments that will enhance the health of people everywhere.
Crossroad Academy
Valedictorian Jesus Chalchi: In five years I see myself graduating university debt free and with a degree in engineering. I will have excellent job opportunities lined up and have a strong foundation for the future of my life. With 5 years of military experience I will propel my career and set myself up for great success.
Salutatorian Yareli Alas: In five years, I envision myself as a dedicated registered nurse who has graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Florida State University’s nursing program. I see myself working in a healthcare environment, where I can gain hands-on experience and deepen my expertise. My goal is to be employed in a hospital setting, specializing in an area of interest such as pediatrics or oncology, to effectively apply my skills and enhance patient care. Additionally, I plan to explore opportunities to pursue a master’s degree in nursing to expand my career options further.
St. John Paul II Academy
Valedictorian Alise Beeman: Two years ago, I would’ve answered this question with certainty — right down to my job, the city I live in, and how much money I’m making. Today, I’m no longer certain about the specifics, but I don’t feel a need for them either. Even though I don’t know exactly where I’ll be, I know I’ll be walking right alongside God, doing whatever it is that He needs of me.
Salutatorian Uriel Carrillo Jr.: In 5 years, I see myself holding three diplomas, working towards a fourth. I will have my work published as I search to find and utilize a more effective power system that limits the time needed for space travel and isn’t detrimental to our environment. I will have started a program supporting first-generation students and Americans as they pursue higher education.
Maclay School
Valedictorian Diya Patel: In the future, I see myself in medical school and studying to become an anesthesiologist.
Salutatorian Leah Song: I see myself finishing the coursework for a master’s degree in computer science at Duke and looking for a job at tech companies in 5 years. I’m also interested in attending a business school, but I expect my goals to change as I explore diverse career paths in the following years.
North Florida Christian
Co-Valedictorian: Taylor Pennywell: In five years, I’ll be a registered nurse with my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in nursing, thriving in a hospital setting in Florida. Eventually, I’ll pursue the goals of either becoming a nurse practitioner or a CRNA. Ultimately, I will top my career off by transitioning into traveling nursing.
Co-Valedictorian: William Morton: In five years, I see myself at Florida State University, finishing my Masters of Business Administration program in Finance, while working either a part-time job or an internship in order to gain more experience before I enter the workforce full time as an actuary which will be my major.
Salutatorian: Erik Davis: In five years I see myself in my first year of medical school, having received my Bachelor’s in Biomedical Science and having applied to get into medical school to pursue a career in radiology.
Aucilla Christian Academy
Valedictorian Raegan Walker: In 5 years I see myself graduating from the University of Florida with a degree in architecture, and then hopefully moving back to my hometown to start a family and grow into my career.
Salutatorian Grayson Brewer: In five years, I see myself at the University of Florida finishing up my biology degree. Once I achieve this degree, I would then find a good facility to work at that would enhance my skills. Transferring off the subject of school, I hope that I will have saved up enough money to be able to buy an engagement ring and propose to my current girlfriend. No matter what happens, I will enjoy each day to the fullest and love the ones closest to me.
Gadsden County High School
Valedictorian Cedriyonna Cateria Brown: Motto: We may live in an age of instant messaging, instant gratification and Instagram, but there is no way to short circuit the path to success.
Salutatorian Jikirra Janae Waiters: Motto: Fight for what makes you optimistic about the world. Find it, insist on it, dig into it, go after it. Just remember, you can’t climb the ladder of success with your hands in your pockets.
(This story was updated to add new information.)
This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Tallahassee area Graduation Guide: Congratulations, Class of 2025!
Reporting by Democrat staff / Tallahassee Democrat
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