HHS awards diplomas to 198 senior students

By By Clif Knight, Hartselle Enquirer
Hartselle High School Principal Jeff Hyche awarded diplomas to 198 members of the 2009 senior class in an impressive and well-directed ceremony at J. P. Cain Stadium Friday night.
In opening remarks, he thanked class members for receiving scholarship offers totaling $5.3 million and bringing pride and recognition to the school through its athletic achievements. He also acknowledged the love, support and guidance of parents and teachers.
Superintendent Dr. Mike Reed expressed appreciation to parents and faculty members for the important role they play in the education process. Individually, he asked each group to stand for recognition and each received a standing ovation.
Seven honor graduates had speaking parts on the program. They were Ashley White, “Welcome”; Ben Wooley, “Class History”; Josh Slaten, “Reflection”; Michel Fields, “Celebration”; Will Ellis “Encouragement”; Kaleb Estes, “Challenge”; and Houston Cleveland, “Farewell.”
Mallory Jones, president, presented the class gift, STI-Home computer software and chairs.
Estes, who said he feels challenged to find a cure for cancer, offered a three-part challenge to his classmates: “First, do what you love; love what you do. Second, live out your dreams because true satisfaction can only come through realizing your dreams, not just having them. Lastly, just do it. You know what you want to accomplish, whatever it may be, just do it, class of 2009.”
Medallions were presented to 28 members of the class for maintaining a 4.0 or above grade point average during their high school careers. The honorees, in addition to those named above, are Walton Ashwander Jr., Zachary Berry, Madison Cain, Nancy Canafax, Frank Goodwin, Alix Howell, Marquez Jones, Sara Lang, Cerra Little, Bernadette Mach, Shelia McGhee, Hollie Nix, Piper Nosal, Russell Powell, Cameron Proper, Brianna Smith, Peyton Speegle, Meeda Stephenson, Lindsey Wallace, Brianna Womack and Patience Wright.