Graduation Photos and Recordings
View The Highlights
We are proud of our alumni for reaching this incredible milestone. See below for photo collages and visit our YouTube playlist for recordings of commencement ceremonies. For questions about diploma presentation photos, please reach out to your child(ren)'s school.
Class of 2026
- Academy of Richmond County
- A.R. Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet School
- Cross Creek Comprehensive High School
- George P. Butler Comprehensive High School
- Glenn Hills Comprehensive High School
- Hephzibah Comprehensive High School
- John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School
- Lucy C. Laney Comprehensive High School
- Richmond County Technical Career Magnet School
- T.W. Josey Comprehensive High School
- Westside Comprehensive High School
- Winter Graduation
Academy of Richmond County
Highlights & Profiles
There are no resources to display
Seniors from 11 Richmond County schools will proudly cross the finish line of their high school journeys this May. As our Class of 2026 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 2026 commencement exercises, please visit graduationschedule.
Thomas Norman
Salutatorian
Thomas Norman is a driven student-athlete who successfully met the challenges of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program and the Gifted Program. As their soccer team Captain, Thomas led his peers both on the field and in the classroom, earning the Georgia Certificate of Merit and membership in the National Honor Society. He counts the team’s region championship victory as a primary highlight of his high school journey and is particularly grateful for the guidance of his coach, Jonathan Shackelford, who supported his growth throughout his four years. Proud to be named his school’s STAR Student, Thomas intends to study business this fall at either the University of North Carolina or the University of Georgia.
Mary Dennis Trotter
Valedictorian
Mary Dennis Trotter is a diligent student who has consistently demonstrated strong academic achievement and community leadership. She successfully navigated the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program and the Gifted Program, completing an array of Advanced Placement courses in subjects ranging from AP Chemistry and Calculus to Art History. Her steady performance earned her the Highest GPA for three consecutive years and the Georgia Certificate of Merit. Outside the classroom, Mary Dennis served as Junior Council President and was an active member of the Augusta West Dance Studio’s competitive company and Youth Leadership Augusta. This fall, Mary Dennis plans to attend Auburn University.
A.R. Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet School
Highlights & Profiles
There are no resources to display
Seniors from 11 Richmond County schools will proudly cross the finish line of their high school journeys this May. As our Class of 2026 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 2026 commencement exercises, please visit graduationschedule.
Rhali Adams-Johnson
Salutatorian
Rhali Adams-Johnson is an ambitious student who has completed a track of Dual Enrollment and Advanced Placement courses, earning her NOCTI CTAE certification and the Georgia Certificate of Merit. Rhali held numerous leadership positions, serving as Captain of the Reading Bowl, Math, and Science Olympiad teams, SkillsUSA President, while also participating in Soccer, Orchestra, and Student Council. Recognized as the STAR Student, she counts her acceptance into a prestigious work-study program with the NSA as a defining highlight and is most proud of achieving the second-highest academic rank in her class. Rhali plans to major in Computer Science at a four-year university, with sights set on institutions like Georgia Tech or MIT.
Adonia Kolawole
Valedictorian
Adonia Kolawole is a highly driven student who has successfully combined an academic schedule with community leadership. He completed ten Advanced Placement courses and five dual enrollment classes while earning a NOCTI Certification in Computer Programming. His leadership extended from the Student Council and SkillsUSA to serving as a Junior Ambassador and a Youth Community Grants Panelist for the CSRA. A Georgia Tech Dean’s Scholarship Semi-Finalist and UGA Certificate of Merit recipient, Adonia is most proud of his ability to excel academically while maintaining financial independence through his own hard work. He fondly remembers the excitement of his first SkillsUSA state competition and values the mentorship of his teacher, Mary Anderson, who supported him during his transition to Georgia. This fall, Adonia will attend the Georgia Institute of Technology to major in Information Systems.
Cross Creek Comprehensive High School
Highlights & Profiles
There are no resources to display
Seniors from 11 Richmond County schools will proudly cross the finish line of their high school journeys this May. As our Class of 2026 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 2026 commencement exercises, please visit rcboe.org/graduation.
George Collie
Salutatorian
George Collie is a focused student-leader who successfully navigated an academic path consisting of Dual Enrollment and Advanced Placement courses, earning the AP Capstone diploma and the STAR Student designation. George’s leadership was a cornerstone of his high school years, as he served as Beta Club President, Debate Team Captain, and an FFA Officer, while also competing in Track and Field. He is most proud of the consistent effort that led to his rank as Salutatorian, an achievement that has provided him with rewarding opportunities for his future. Following graduation, George plans to attend college and work toward becoming a CPA, with a personal goal of completing his degree debt-free.
Jacklyn Kurtz
Valedictorian
Jacklyn Kurtz is a driven student who has balanced an athletic career with academic dedication. By graduation, she will have completed 60 credit hours of dual enrollment, earning her associate degree in political science alongside her high school diploma. She is a two-time Region Champion and State Qualifier in discus, a DECA National Qualifier, and a Debate Team medalist. A multi-sport athlete in softball, volleyball, and track, she was named Varsity Track and Field MVP and consistently maintained the Highest GPA for her class throughout her first three years. Jacklyn counts her trip to Orlando for DECA Nationals as her most memorable experience and deeply values the guidance of Ms. Shamika Zinnerman in helping her make pivotal life decisions. This fall, Jacklyn will attend Kennesaw State University to major in public relations.
George P. Butler Comprehensive High School
Highlights & Profiles
There are no resources to display
Seniors from 11 Richmond County schools will proudly cross the finish line of their high school journeys this May. As our Class of 2026 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 2026 commencement exercises, please visit rcboe.org/graduation.
Daniel Brito
Salutatorian
Daniel Brito is a focused student who values the results of hard work and consistency. Throughout high school, he challenged himself by completing dual-enrollment courses, including Advanced Placement Pre-Calculus and U.S. History, earning a 4.0 GPA. Daniel attributes much of his success to staying grounded and is especially grateful for the support of Ms. Reynolds, who guided him when he needed it most. Following graduation, Daniel plans to pursue a career in barbering, with the goal of attending barber school to earn his license and eventually opening his own shop.
MaKenzie Evans
Valedictorian
MaKenzie Evans has demonstrated exceptional academic rigor by completing five dual enrollment and four Advanced Placement courses throughout her high school career. She has earned several accolades, including the highest GPA in 11th grade and membership in the East Georgia Bobcat L.E.A.D. Society, and receiving the Central Hudson Baptist Association 2024 Youth of the Year Award. An active participant in MCJROTC and the Math Team, MaKenzie also showcased her creative talents by earning first place in the All-County Art Show. After graduation, she plans to attend college to pursue a degree in nursing, where she intends to apply her focus and passion for helping others into a career in healthcare.
Glenn Hills Comprehensive High School
Highlights & Profiles
There are no resources to display
Seniors from 11 Richmond County schools will proudly cross the finish line of their high school journeys this May. As our Class of 2026 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 2026 commencement exercises, please visit graduationschedule.
Tyona Thompson-Chandler
Salutatorian
Tyona Thompson-Chandler is a versatile student who, throughout her high school years, challenged herself with Advanced Placement courses in Literature, Pre-Calculus, and Economics. Tyona took on significant leadership roles as the Student Council President and Vice President of DECA, while also contributing as a member of FCCLA and the Math Team. She fondly remembers the excitement of being crowned Homecoming Queen in 2025 and is deeply grateful for the support of Jaime Lewis, who provided guidance through every high and low moment. Most proud of her ranking as the second-highest student in her class, Tyona plans to attend Augusta Technical College to major in radiology before eventually pursuing a career as a mortician.
Candice Ware
Valedictorian
Candice Ware is a driven student who balanced a rigorous academic schedule with leadership positions across campus. She successfully completed an array of dual enrollment and AP courses while simultaneously earning her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and CPR certifications. As the leader of the Future Nursing Club and Captain of the Volleyball team, Candice exemplified the balance of a Scholar Athlete, also serving as a Yearbook Editor and receiving the JaMarcus A. Tate Launch Academy Award. Following graduation, she plans to attend a four-year university to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and pursue her goal of becoming a pediatric nurse.
Hephzibah Comprehensive High School
Highlights & Profiles
There are no resources to display
Seniors from 11 Richmond County schools will proudly cross the finish line of their high school journeys this May. As our Class of 2026 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 2026 commencement exercises, please visit rcboe.org/graduation.
Mariah Thompson
Salutatorian
Mariah Thompson is a focused and versatile student who has immersed herself in high-level academics and community involvement. Dually enrolled with Georgia Military College, she also completed a slate of Advanced Placement courses ranging from AP U.S. History to AP English Literature. Mariah’s leadership is most evident in her role as the Rebel Battalion Cadet Major S-3 Operations Officer, and she contributed significantly to the Student Council, National Honor Society, and Academic Decathlon. Her academic commitment earned her several honors, including the Georgia Certificate of Merit and the Military Order of the World Wars Achievement. Following graduation, Mariah plans to attend Fort Valley State University to major in psychology and begin her journey toward becoming a Child Behavioral Specialist.
Logan Heyward
Valedictorian
Logan Heyward is a dedicated student-athlete who managed a rigorous academic schedule while leading in varsity athletics. He completed a wide range of gifted and Advanced Placement courses, including AP Statistics, AP Precalculus, and AP Environmental Science, while consistently maintaining the highest GPA in his class. A captain of both the football and baseball teams, Logan earned the CSRA Scholar Athlete Award and served as the Student Representative to the RCBOE Superintendent. After graduation, Logan plans to attend Andrew College to major in engineering.
John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School
Highlights & Profiles
There are no resources to display
Seniors from 11 Richmond County schools will proudly cross the finish line of their high school journeys this May. As our Class of 2026 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 2026 commencement exercises, please visit rcboe.org/graduation.
Karishma Zechariah
Salutatorian
Karishma Zechariah is a dedicated leader and musician who challenged herself through the Governor’s Honors Program, Dual Enrollment, and numerous AP courses, earning the AP Scholar with Distinction designation. Karishma’s leadership was central to the school community, as she served as the Executive President of the Student Council, the Section Leader of the Symphonic Band, and the Vice President of Model United Nations. Her diverse achievements include a National Latin Exam Gold Medal, the John S. Davidson Fine Arts Citizenship Award, and a first-place finish in the Georgia Regional Science Fair. She fondly remembers her band’s competitive victory in Hawaii and credits her personal and musical growth to the long-term mentorship of Mr. Brewer. Following graduation, Karishma will attend Mercer University as part of the Medical Scholars Program, majoring in Public Health, with plans to matriculate into medical school in four years.
Annie Zhang
Valedictorian
Annie Zhang is an accomplished scholar and leader committed to global health. Her academic record includes 15 Advanced Placement courses, as well as specialized coursework at Columbia University and dual enrollment at Augusta University and the University of West Georgia. A National Merit Scholarship Finalist and the STAR Student for both her school and county, Annie is most proud of her original research regarding cell phone policies in schools, which earned her first place at the Regional Science Fair and the American Psychological Association Award. Her leadership is equally vast, serving as President of the National English Honor Society, as the founder of the Augusta chapter of WeDeliverPeriod, and as a dedicated musician with 15 years of piano experience. She plans to study Economics and Public Health, with the long-term goal of working for the UN or WHO to improve global health outcomes.
Lucy C. Laney Comprehensive High School
Highlights & Profiles
There are no resources to display
Seniors from 11 Richmond County schools will proudly cross the finish line of their high school journeys this May. As our Class of 2026 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 2026 commencement exercises, please visit graduationschedule.
Aniyah Jones
Salutatorian
Aniyah Jones is a devoted and studious leader who displayed academic drive throughout her high school career. A member of the AP Academy and FLAIR program, she earned several prestigious honors, including the UGA Certificate of Merit and the Highest Overall Academic Average. Aniyah held prominent leadership positions as the Battalion Commander of Laney JROTC and Math Team Captain, while also participating in the Atlanta Urban Debate League, Volleyball, and Cheer teams. One of her most memorable achievements was being named the 1st Place RCSS Math 24 Winner. Following graduation, Aniyah plans to enlist in the U.S. Army to become a Behavioral Health Specialist and eventually open her own private therapy practice.
Vertez Moore
Valedictorian
Vertez Moore has demonstrated strong academic achievement and commitment to the school community. As a member of the AP Academy, he earned the highest academic averages in courses such as AP Biology and AP Chemistry while also becoming ASE certified in automotive maintenance. Vertez held significant leadership roles, serving as President of SkillsUSA and Captain of the Laney Math Team, and actively participated in the Atlanta Urban Debate League and DECA. His character was consistently recognized by his peers, who elected him to numerous honors including Mr. Freshman and Mr. Wildcat. After graduation, Vertez plans to attend a HBCU to major in business with a minor in fashion design and merchandising, eventually launching his own clothing brand.
Richmond County Technical Career Magnet School
Highlights & Profiles
There are no resources to display
Seniors from 11 Richmond County schools will proudly cross the finish line of their high school journeys this May. As our Class of 2026 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 2026 commencement exercises, please visit graduationschedule.
Justin Gayle
Salutatorian
Justin Gayle is a committed student who successfully balanced his academic responsibilities with specialized technical training. Throughout high school, he supplemented his education with Dual Enrollment courses and Advanced Placement U.S. History while maintaining membership in the National Honor Society. Justin held key leadership roles as the Parliamentarian and Treasurer for SkillsUSA, where he demonstrated significant expertise by earning first place at the 2025 State Leadership Conference for Internetworking and second place in 2026 for the Internet of Things (IoT). He credits much of his progress to the mentorship of his CTAE teacher, Ms. Endia Spencer, and his counselor, Mrs. Tiffany Cox, who helped him navigate internships and future planning. Proud to be named Salutatorian, Justin plans to attend college to pursue a degree in Information Technology.
Mya Stokes
Valedictorian
Mya Stokes is a proactive student who prioritized efficiency, completing her core requirements by the end of her junior year to fully embrace Dual Enrollment and Advanced Placement opportunities. A dedicated leader, she served as SkillsUSA President and was an active member of Student Council, Volleyball, and Soccer, earning the distinction of Scholar Athlete and membership in the National Honor Society. She credits much of her personal growth to the support of her teacher, Datinya Caviness, who served as a vital mentor and confidante. Looking ahead, Mya intends to begin her studies to become a gynecologist.
T.W. Josey Comprehensive High School
Highlights & Profiles
There are no resources to display
Seniors from 11 Richmond County schools will proudly cross the finish line of their high school journeys this May. As our Class of 2026 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 2026 commencement exercises, please visit graduationschedule.
Kerri Fluellen
Salutatorian
Kerri Fluellen is a dedicated student-athlete who, throughout her high school years, completed several Dual Enrollment and Advanced Placement courses while maintaining her membership in the National Honor Society. Kerri’s athletic achievements include being named Freshman of the Year, a two-time Region Player of the Year, and a four-time First Team All-Region and State selection. She fondly remembers the excitement of reaching the state championship during her sophomore year and values the mentorship of her business management teacher, Ms. Luckie. Proud to serve as the class Salutatorian, Keri plans to attend college to major in sports psychology.
Ricardo Garnett
Valedictorian
Ricardo Garnett is a steadfast student who challenged himself with a rigorous curriculum, completing Dual Enrollment English Composition alongside Advanced Placement courses in African American Studies, Precalculus, and Literature. A dedicated member of the soccer team, Ricardo counts the team’s playoff run as a defining highlight of his high school years. He is most proud of the consistency and effort that led him to achieve the highest academic ranking in his class. Following graduation, he intends to pursue both a college degree and a career in the military. As he moves into this next phase, he advises incoming freshmen to remain resilient, noting that while mistakes may happen, the key to success is to simply keep going.
Westside Comprehensive High School
Highlights & Profiles
There are no resources to display
Seniors from 11 Richmond County schools will proudly cross the finish line of their high school journeys this May. As our Class of 2026 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 2026 commencement exercises, please visit rcboe.org/graduation.
Tenique Morris
Salutatorian
Tenique Morris is a focused student who took pride in surpassing her own academic expectations throughout high school. By completing six Advanced Placement courses and nine dual-enrollment courses at Augusta University, she demonstrated a high level of academic dedication, earning her the distinction of being named STAR Student and receiving the Georgia Certificate of Merit. Tenique was an active member of DECA and served as the Vice President of the National Honor Society, and was also inducted into the Foreign Language Honor Society. She is especially grateful for the guidance of her counselor, Ms. Latonya Thomas, who provided unwavering support during her transition into senior year. Following graduation, Tenique plans to attend Georgia Southern University to major in pre-healthcare with a focus on radiologic sciences, with the ultimate career goal of becoming a medical dosimetrist.
Kaesha Ford
Valedictorian
Kaesha Ford is a dedicated student-leader with professional clinical experience. Throughout high school, she successfully navigated Dual Enrollment and Advanced Placement courses, earning an ATC Early College Essentials Certificate and becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant. Kaesha held numerous leadership roles, most notably serving as President of the National Honor Society and as a member of the Superintendent’s Advisory Council, Senior Council, and Youth Leadership. A recipient of the Georgia Certificate of Merit and an Augusta University Black Scholar, she is especially grateful for the mentorship of Jillyan Beasley, whose guidance helped her achieve the distinction of Valedictorian. This fall, Kaesha will attend Augusta University to major in nursing with plans to become an ICU nurse, entering as a second-semester sophomore while continuing her work in the mother/baby unit of a local hospital.
