Oshjiah Cancer, Wilkinson Gardens Elementary School 

Oshjiah Cancer teaches second grade at Wilkinson Gardens Elementary School and is in her second year as an educator. Before joining our school system she worked as a general manager for Hodges Management Company, overseeing multiple restaurant locations. Inspired by her mother, a retired educator of over 30 years, Cancer says her path to teaching felt like a natural next step. She considers her greatest success so far to be joining midyear and still forming strong relationships with her students. 

Logan Alberti is graduating as the valedictorian of Richmond County Technical Career Magnet School (RCTCM).

Alberti enrolled in multiple Advanced Placement (AP) and dual enrollment courses throughout high school while actively participating in SkillsUSA, the Math Team, and serving on the Class of 2025 Student Council. Their dedication and high achievement earned them several honors, including STAR Student recognition and Governor’s Honors Program participant selection. Alberti was also inducted into the National Honor Society. 

When reflecting on high school, Alberti says their favorite memory was joking with their friends in the classroom. “Any of the times we pranked Ms. Johns. My favorite was asking if we could have one guest come with us to class and bringing about 15 people,” said Alberti. 

Alberti credits Mrs. Karen Mack as the teacher with the most significant influence on their success. “Mrs. Mack demonstrated what determination could do so long as you set your mind on accomplishing a goal,” they said. “Furthermore, she’s encouraged me the most out of all my teachers.” 

Alberti offers this advice to incoming freshmen: “Don’t let teachers trick you into believing you only go to school to learn. You’ll only be a high schooler once in your life, so have some fun.” 

After graduation, Alberti plans to attend college and study medicine, with the goal of helping combat incurable illnesses. 

Salutatorian 

JaKarius Calhoun

Memorie Alayah Rhodes is graduating as the valedictorian of Lucy C. Laney Comprehensive High School’s Class of 2025, honoring years of academic dedication and personal growth. 

Rhodes challenged herself academically through dual enrollment courses in psychology and computer science and a rigorous slate of Advanced Placement (AP) classes, including AP Government, AP Statistics, AP World History, AP English Language, AP Environmental Science, AP Pre-Calculus, AP U.S. History, and AP English Literature.  

Beyond the classroom, Rhodes participated in Youth Leadership of Augusta and was a member of the varsity girls' basketball team. She was also crowned Miss Laney, one of her proudest and most memorable high school experiences.  

She credits her English Language Arts teacher, Mrs. Amanda Holmes, as the most influential teacher in her journey. “She has taught many lessons whether it was pertaining to school or to life in general,” Rhodes said.   

After graduation, Rhodes plans to continue her education at Kennesaw State University, majoring in biology and pursuing a career in medicine. 

Kiara Gray, daughter of Rene Williams and Claude Gray, is a proud member of the Class of 2025 who has exemplified academic excellence, resilience, and determination throughout high school. Gray participated in dual enrollment at Augusta Technical College while maintaining a strong academic record in her high school courses. She was named a STAR Student and also earned the University of Georgia Certificate of Merit. 

This fall, Gray will attend Augusta University to pursue an accounting degree. With a passion for numbers and critical thinking, she plans to become a risk analyst, helping organizations make informed, data-driven decisions. 

Jayla Wimberly is graduating as the salutatorian of Cross Creek Comprehensive High School’s Class of 2025, celebrated for her academic commitment, leadership, and well-rounded involvement in school activities. 

Wimberly pursued a rigorous academic track that included numerous Advanced Placement courses such as AP Environmental Science, AP Biology, AP Seminar, AP World History, AP English Literature, AP English Language, and AP Government. She also completed dual enrollment courses in college algebra, advanced composition, criminal justice, psychology, biology, and abnormal psychology, all while maintaining A/B Honor Roll status. 

Beyond the classroom, Wimberly served as vice president of the Debate Club, where she earned second place in a competitive debate tournament. She was also captain of the girls' volleyball team, receiving the “Best All-Around Player” award, and played on the tennis team. 

Wimberly says her most memorable high school experience was going to Carowinds with her classmates. She credits Dr. Baker, a staff member at Cross Creek, as the most impactful mentor in her journey. “No matter what, he always made sure I had a way to succeed and pass,” she said. 

Wimberly is most proud of receiving the Coca-Cola Science Award, which reflects her passion and dedication to the sciences. With her experience taking challenging courses, her advice to incoming freshmen is, “AP classes are really not that hard. They’re pretty easy with the right teacher, and it boosts your GPA.” 

Her advice to freshmen: “AP classes are really not that hard. They’re pretty easy with the right teacher—and they boost your GPA.” 

After graduation, she plans to attend Georgia Southern University while working and pursuing degrees in both radiology and biomedical sciences. 

Lauren Andrews is graduating as the valedictorian of the Academy of Richmond County (ARC)’s Class of 2025. 

Andrews completed 21 Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses as part of the IB Diploma Programme and earned consistent A Honor Roll recognition throughout all four high school years. Her academic achievements include the Georgia Certificate of Merit, the IB ARC Trustee Award for Outstanding Scholarship and Leadership, the Tom Gamblin Award and Scholarship, the Ronald I. Evans Award, and the Elizabeth Otwell Award in Chemistry. She was also recognized for having the highest average in IB Theory of Knowledge, IB 20th Century History, IB Analysis and Approaches, and IB English A Literature. 

Beyond the classroom, Andrews served as treasurer of the National Honor Society, a Junior Council member, and participated in Interact Club and Academic Decathlon. She was a Fellowship of Christian Athletes leader and a mentor through the IB Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) Junior Class program. She also danced competitively for 13 years and was a member of Lead Cotillion Club Social, Inc. As a four-year varsity athlete, Andrews stood out in cross country and soccer. She was named MVP for the Varsity Girls Cross Country Team and earned multiple first-place regional and county finishes. 

One of her most meaningful experiences was serving as a co-candidate for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Student Visionaries of the Year program, where she helped raise over $73,000 in honor of blood cancer patients and their families. With more than 300 service hours, she was also named a CSRA Student Visionaries of the Year Runner-Up. 

Her most memorable high school moment was celebrating with friends during Senior Week. “It was a special time of reflection, fun, and closure as we wrapped up our final year together,” she said. 

Andrews credits two educators her math teacher Elise Aldred and her science teacher Katie West for shaping her high school journey. “Both of these teachers have impacted my life through their work ethic and passion for teaching. I’m incredibly thankful for them,” she said. 

She considers being named valedictorian her proudest academic achievement and plans to attend the University of Georgia in the fall to major in biology on the pre-med track. 

Her advice to incoming students: “Work hard, be kind, and stay grounded in the things that matter.” 

McKenzie Hill is graduating as the salutatorian of the Academy of Richmond County (ARC)’s Class of 2025. 

While participating in the gifted program, Hill completed an advanced academic program that included Advanced Placement (AP), dual enrollment, and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses. Her dedication earned her numerous academic honors, including the Georgia Certificate of Merit, the Augusta University Black Scholar Award, the D.A.R. Good Citizen Award, and the Augusta Coca-Cola Outstanding Science Award for her performance on AP and IB Biology courses. She was also recognized as a Governor’s Honors Program nominee and an SAT Scholar. 

Hill was actively involved in student life, serving as Senior Council President and participating in Student Council, Interact Club, and Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA). She also competed in track and was a member of the cheerleading team. In addition, Hill participated in several honor societies, including the National Honor Society, Beta Club, Rho Kappa Social Studies Honor Society, the National Society of Speech and Debate, and Future Leaders of Augusta with Integrity and Respect (FLAIR). 

One of her most memorable experiences was attending the senior sunrise event during homecoming week. “It was fun seeing everyone represent our school and come together for the first of many events during our senior year,” Hill said. 

She credits Ms. Juretta Thomas, a counselor at ARC, as the most influential staff member in her high school journey. Hill said, “She has given me countless opportunities to excel and to be recognized for what I have done throughout my time in high school.” 

Her proudest academic accomplishment was completing semesters where she took more than seven classes and finished with straight A+ grades. 

Hill’s advice to incoming freshmen is to slow down. “I think it can be so easy to compare ourselves to others and to constantly want to raise the bar,” she said. “A lot of the time, we are exactly where we need to be. Taking a step back and looking at how much you've already accomplished every so often throughout your time in high school is so important.” 

After graduation, Hill will attend the University of Georgia to pursue a Bachelor of Business Administration in real estate with a minor in legal studies.  

Seniors from 11 Richmond County schools will proudly cross the finish line of their high school journeys this May. As our Class of 2025 graduates prepare to enter the next stage of their lives, we asked our valedictorians and salutatorians to share their memories, achievements, and advice to younger students.  

For more information about Spring 2025 commencement exercises, please visit rcboe.org/graduationschedule. 

Taylor Delva is graduating as the valedictorian of Westside Comprehensive High School’s Class of 2025, closing out a high school career defined by academic excellence and leadership. 

Throughout her time at Westside, Delva pursued a rigorous academic schedule. She completed multiple Advanced Placement (AP) courses and earned the AP Scholar Award. She also participated in dual enrollment at Georgia Military College, where she was named to the President’s List. 

Delva’s academic excellence earned her numerous honors. She was a two-time nominee for the Governor’s Honors Program and was named Westside’s STAR Student. Additional recognitions include the Math Department Award, Augusta Coca-Cola Outstanding High School Biological Science and Physical Science Awards, Georgia Certificate of Merit, East Georgia State College Scholar distinction, Augusta University Black Scholar recognition, National African American Recognition Award, and FLAIR designation. 

Delva was also deeply involved in campus life. She served in Westside’s Navy Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (NJROTC) unit as a platoon commander and received the NJROTC Department Award. She was also an Academic Team officer and participated in sophomore, junior, and senior Student Councils. She was the Math Team captain, the STEM Club vice president, and treasurer and president of the National Honor Society. 

“The most memorable moment of high school is when my classmate told me they got an A on their math test after we’d been tutoring together,” said Delva. She says her proudest academic achievement is being named a Star Student because it allowed her to recognize her Star Teacher, Navy JROTC instructor Petty Officer Corey Jones.  

The teacher who had the biggest impact on her academic journey was her physics teacher, Mr. Jody Grant, now Westside’s assistant principal. "He made me feel seen academically but also as a person,” she said. “He taught me that everything in life won’t be given [to me] so I have to work for it. He was always there to support me in all of my endeavors these last two years.” 

Delva says her best advice to incoming first-year students as she looks ahead to graduation is, “Have fun, but prepare because it’s going to go by really quickly.” 

After graduation, Delva plans to attend Winthrop University’s Honor College with a major in mathematics.  

Seniors from 11 Richmond County schools will proudly cross the finish line of their high school journeys this May. As our Class of 2025 graduates prepare to enter the next stage of their lives, we asked our valedictorians and salutatorians to share their memories, achievements, and advice to younger students.  

For more information about Spring 2025 commencement exercises, please visit rcboe.org/graduationschedule. 

Amarri Robinson is graduating as the valedictorian of John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School’s Class of 2025, recognized for his exceptional achievements in science, engineering, and mathematics. 

Robinson completed Advanced Placement (AP) and dual enrollment coursework and has earned an array of distinguished honors, including STAR Student, the Harvard Book Prize, the National African American Recognition Award, and the Georgia College Science Fair “Best of Show” Award. He was named a finalist in the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair and the U.S. National Chemistry Olympiad. He received the Yale Science and Engineering Association’s “Most Outstanding Exhibit” Award. His research was showcased at the International Science and Engineering Fair in Los Angeles and published by the National Institutes of Health. 

At Davidson, Robinson served as president of the Math Club and Science Club, captain of the Varsity Math Team, and saxophone section leader in the band program.  

One of his most memorable moments was traveling to Los Angeles for the International Science and Engineering Fair last year, and he credits educator Julianna Taylor for her guidance and support throughout his academic journey. Of all his academic achievements, Robinson says he is most proud of scoring a 36 on the ACT.  

“I’m immensely grateful for those who allowed me my position at Davidson,” said Robinson. “Students, faculty, and administration included.”  

After graduation, he will attend the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) with several full-ride scholarships and a paid internship to major in biological engineering. His advice to future students is simple: “Stay future-focused.” 

Seniors from 11 Richmond County schools will proudly cross the finish line of their high school journeys this May. As our Class of 2025 graduates prepare to enter the next stage of their lives, we asked our valedictorians and salutatorians to share their memories, achievements, and advice with younger students.  

For more information about Spring 2025 commencement exercises, please visit rcboe.org/graduationschedule. 

Shanell Reese is graduating as the valedictorian of George P. Butler Comprehensive High School’s Class of 2025, recognized for her academic excellence, leadership, and passion for advocacy. 

Reese completed Advanced Placement (AP) and dual enrollment courses while earning numerous academic honors. Her awards include STAR Student, Academic High Honor Roll (2021–2025), Highest GPA Award, and Highest Average in multiple subjects, including AP U.S. History, AP World History, Physics, and Algebra. She also placed first in the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Personal Finance competition and was named “Miss FBLA” and Youth of the Year. She is a member of the National Honor Society and has been recognized with over a dozen scholarship offers, including the Watson-Brown, Beautymaster, Spelman, and Georgia State University merit scholarships. 

Throughout high school, Reese held multiple leadership roles, including Student Council Vice President and President, FBLA Parliamentary and Secretary, and AVID Ambassador. She was also involved in the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) Beta Club, TRIO Upward Bound, and served as a peer leader on campus. 

“One of the most memorable moments was struggling through Mrs. Gay’s class with my classmates and having each other’s backs until we made it through,” said Reese. “Another great memory was going on the senior trip, where we got to take a break from school and just have fun together.” 

Reese credits Mrs. Schonta Gay-Randolph, her AP Language teacher, as the most influential educator in her journey. “She challenged me to work harder and believe in my abilities. Her high expectations helped me grow both academically and personally.” 

Her proudest achievement is being named valedictorian of the Class of 2025 and her advice to incoming freshmen is, “Stay focused, but don’t forget to take breaks and take care of yourself. Balance is key.” 

After graduation, Reese plans to attend Georgia State University to major in political science and pursue a career in family law. 

Valedictorian

Jan Blake

Salutatorian

Makayla Johnson

Makayla Johnson is graduating as the salutatorian of T.W. Josey Comprehensive High School’s Class of 2025, recognized for her strong academic record and leadership. 

Throughout high school, Johnson completed dual enrollment and Advanced Placement (AP) coursework, earned a Digital Literacy Certification, and completed her CTAE pathway. She received numerous honors, including STAR Student, the Georgia Certificate of Merit, Black Scholar Award, FLAIR Student of the Year, Air Force Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) Medal of Merit, American Legion Award, Air Force JROTC Scholastic Award, and membership in the National Honor Society. 

Johnson held several leadership roles during her time at Josey. She served as vice president of the student council and captain of the Math Team. She was also involved in the Air Force JROTC, the Debate Team, Delta Gems, the Rosa T. Beard Debutante Club, and the school yearbook staff as a photographer. 

“My most memorable moment of high school was getting to know incredible individuals who shaped my life in a positive way,” said Johnson. She credits her teacher Khadijah Huff as the most influential educator in her journey, saying, “She didn’t sugarcoat anything, and I needed that. She was blunt, humorous, and understanding.” 

Of all her accolades, Johnson says she is most proud of receiving the American Legion Award. “It’s wonderful to know my work ethic has finally paid off,” she said. 

Her advice to incoming freshmen is, “Have fun, but understand that work comes first. Live your life to the fullest, but maintain a school and personal life balance.” 

After graduation, Johnson will attend Howard University to major in criminology with the ultimate goal of becoming a defense attorney.  

Rhianna Danielle Waltower is graduating as the valedictorian of Hephzibah Comprehensive High School’s Class of 2025. She earned the honor through her dedication to academics, leadership, and service. 

Waltower balanced her high school coursework with dual enrollment at Georgia Military College, where she earned an associate’s degree in psychology, the achievement she is most proud of in her high school career. Her academic excellence was recognized with several honors, including the WJBF Scholar Athlete Award, the University of Georgia Certificate of Merit, and Augusta State University’s Young Black Scholar Award. 

During her time at Hephzibah, Waltower served as a Student Council member, National Honor Society member, American Patriotism Club member, Youth Leadership Augusta participant, and Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council member.  

She also made her mark in athletics, serving as captain of the flag football team and participating in cheerleading. “The most memorable experience [of high school] has been playing football and cheering on the sideline with some of my lifelong friends,” she said. 

Waltower credits Dr. Michael Williams as the educator who had the most significant influence on her success. “No matter what, he always has a bright spirit and makes sure the students are okay,” she said. 

Waltower advises incoming first-year students: “Whatever you’re worried about right now is not that serious. By senior year, so many things will change—and that’s a good thing!” 

After graduation, Waltower plans to attend North Carolina A&T State University with a major in mechanical engineering. 

Tyra Brown is graduating as the salutatorian of Hephzibah Comprehensive High School’s Class of 2025, where she excelled academically as an Honor Roll student and honor graduate while taking dual enrollment and Advanced Placement (AP) courses. 

Brown’s dedication to her studies earned her several accolades, including the University of Georgia Certificate of Merit, the East Georgia L.E.A.D. Award, the FLAIR Award, and recognition as an Outstanding Student. She was an active member of the National Honor Society, Student Council, Yearbook Staff, the American Patriotism Club, and the Art Club, and served as a cheerleader. 

Her most memorable high school moment was celebrating her 16th birthday during homecoming festivities. “My sophomore year, turning 16 on our homecoming day parade, and having a game right after—we won. Even though I spent my whole day at school, I still enjoyed my 16th birthday, and it was a school day I would never forget!” 

Brown credits Mrs. April Cofer as the educator who impacted her most. She said, “In my second year of high school, she was my AP Statistics teacher, constantly trying new ways to keep us engaged. Junior year, she was a fun and supportive cheer coach I could always sit beside and vent to. And in my senior year, she was an administrator who was always advocating for us students and keeping treats on deck. She always made me believe in myself.” 

Brown offers this advice to incoming first-year students: “Work hard now so your senior year is easy, and don’t forget, it’s better to stand alone than stand where you don’t belong.” 

Brown will attend Georgia Southern University in the fall, where she plans to major in Radiological Sciences, focusing on Diagnostic Sonography.