Friday was a day of celebration across Robeson County as students from Lumberton, Purnell Swett, Fairmont, Red Springs and St. Pauls high schools marched across the stage during commencement ceremonies across the county.
“Graduates, congratulations on this milestone achievement! I hope you have learned many things from your high school career including the importance and value of teamwork, diversity and perseverance. Those qualities can help you along your way to a bright future ahead,” said PSRC Superintendent Dr. Freddie Williamson.
“I pray you will use your education and your God-given gifts to make a difference in your communities and in this world. Remember always to trust in the Lord and He will direct your path like Proverbs 3:5-6 states,” Williamson said.
Fairmont High School
Fairmont High School’s graduation ceremony took place in the school's gymnasium at 9 a.m. The school honored 162 graduates during the ceremony.
FHS student Kaden Colvin and special guest Dr. Will Harris performed the national anthem following the posting of the colors by the FHS JROTC Color Guard.
The invocation was given by Jayda Mackenzie Smith and Hannah Pearson welcomed graduates and attendees. Vanecia Fletcher gave class statistics and Lee Pate introduced commencement speaker Jonathan Grissett.
“To accomplish great things, you must first understand that you will fail along the way,” FHS Principal Kent Prater said in a statement for graduating seniors.
“Accept failure and embrace it because often the greatest success comes after failing first. You must learn from failures, then continue to act, dream, plan, and believe,” he said.
Lumberton Senior High School
Lumberton Senior High School graduating seniors and their family members and friends gathered in the school's gymnasium at 9 a.m. for the Pirate’s commencement ceremony.
The school celebrated 365 graduates.
The LHS Chorale Ensemble directed by Teresa Davis performed the national anthem followed by the posting of the colors by the LHS JROTC Color Guard. Senior Class President Emily Elizabeth Hall and SGA President Kaylee Chavis shared remarks.
“LHS Class of 2023, don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone,” said LHS Principal Larry Brooks in a statement.
“Success comes to those who get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Congratulations and best wishes on your bright future ahead,” he said.
Purnell Swett High School
Purnell Swett High School's ceremony was held in the school's main gymnasium at 9 a.m. There were 328 graduates honored.
The PSHS Choral Ensemble performed the national anthem after the posting of the colors by the PSHS Ram Battalion Color Guard. PSRC Board of Education Member Craig Lowry gave the invocation and Principal Clyde Leviner welcomed graduates and guests and gave commencement remarks.
Senior Class President Geterean Wright delivered words of inspiration. The Rev. David Oxendine, who serves as pastor of Pembroke First Baptist Church, gave the benediction.
“Perception is everything,” PSHS Principal Leviner said in a statement. “In the words of Carter Crocker, ‘Always remember that you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think.’”
Red Springs High School
Red Springs High School's ceremony was held in the school's gymnasium at 10 a.m. The school celebrated 162 seniors who graduated from the school.
The RSHS Chorus performed the national anthem followed by the posting of the colors by JROTC cadets. Class President Michaela Chavis-Douglas welcomed everyone to the ceremony and Destiny Locklear gave the invocation. Akiya McMillan gave the senior reflection and Sydney Bell read the class poem.
“Seniors, as you navigate these soon-to-be uncharted waters, don't forget your core values,” said RSHS Principal Jamal Campbell in a statement.
“For it's your core values and beliefs that provide stability, comfort, balance, and focus in times of uncertainty. Remind yourself daily that you are resilient and can achieve whatever you set your mind to do. I am praying for your greatest success!” he added.
St. Pauls High School
St. Pauls High School's graduation ceremony took place at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke's Givens Performing Arts Center at 9 a.m.
The school honored 203 graduates.
William Kennedy Brooks gave the invocation following the national anthem. The SPHS Bulldog Battalion Color Guard conducted the posting of the colors. Alex Barrera Plata welcomed everyone in attendance and Sara Naji Ahmed recognized the marshals. In addition, Keonna Love and Alex Barrera Plata each shared remarks. Dr. Andrew Dillon Burns was the guest speaker.
SPHS Principal Jason Suggs released a statement encouraging students to embrace the future with anticipation and excitement.
“The best is yet to come,” Suggs said in a statement.
PSRC Early College previously honored its 44 graduates during a May 26 commencement ceremony at Robeson Community College.
PSRC Board of Education Chairman John Simmons also shared advice for graduates.
“Be bold and be courageous,” Simmons said in a statement. “Be your best. Wherever you go, go with all your heart. If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door. Congratulations, class of 2023!”
