Warren County High School Celebrates the Class of 2024

On Friday, May 17, 2024, Warren County High School held its Commencement Ceremony for the Class of 2024. Despite a forecast for heavy rain, the ceremony experienced only a few sprinkles, making for a perfect evening to celebrate the graduates’ achievements.

The event began with a heartfelt welcome from Molly Sims, the Senior Class President. Molly reminisced about her childhood dream of becoming class president and shared her journey with the audience. “Today is a day I have dreaded for most of my life,” she admitted, recalling how she once asked her mother if she could stay in school forever after watching High School Musical 3. Molly’s speech was filled with humor and poignant memories, including a tribute to their late classmate, Josh Lillard.

Molly’s speech was followed by Principal Kenneth Knesh’s remarks. He expressed his pride in the Class of 2024, noting their resilience and unique character. “You’ve been challenging, there’s no doubt, but being your principal has been one of the biggest honors of my life,” he said. Principal Knesh shared fond memories of various students and encouraged the graduates to continue supporting each other and to remember their roots as Wildcats.

Superintendent Dr. Chris Ballinger presented the prestigious Carl and Emily Thompson Charitable Trust Scholarships. This year’s recipients were Madelyn Tennant, who will attend the University of Virginia to study pre-law, and Sophia McCurry, who will also attend UVA to study biology and pre-med. Both students were recognized for outstanding academic achievements, with cumulative GPAs of 4.41 and 4.32, respectively.

The ceremony continued with the presentation of the Hugh D. Hite Award, the most coveted honor for a senior. Hailey Oyler, the 2023 recipient, announced Sophia Kozhenevsky as this year’s winner. Sophia, known for her intelligence, humility, and leadership, plans to attend Virginia Tech University to major in Interior Design.

Next, Warren County Board of Supervisors Chair Cheryl Cullers presented the Warren County Educational Foundation Scholarship to Sophia McCurry, acknowledging her exceptional academic performance and her medical career plans.

Mary Bukva, a retired teacher and administrator, presented the Mary Francis Bukva “Ms. B” Award to Laney Schenher. Laney recognized for her leadership, academic excellence, and athletic achievements, plans to attend High Point University to become a behavioral analyst.

Jessica Kelly, a former U.S. Navy dental technician, recognized the seniors chosen to serve in the military. These graduates, wearing red, white, and blue cords, included Noah Stewart (Coast Guard), Blake Ramsey (Army National Guard), Hannah Bonner (Air Force), Nicholas Robison (Army), Collin Houston, Jonathan Pansara, Tara Shaver, and Drake Chapin (Navy). Kelly commended their bravery and commitment to serving the country.

Dr. G. Michelle Edwards then acknowledged the distinguished honor graduates with GPAs of 4.0 and above. The students were celebrated for their academic excellence and were adorned with gold and maroon cords. Tucker Brown, Assistant Principal, followed by recognizing honor graduates with GPAs between 3.5 and 3.99, who wore silver and maroon cords.

The ceremony proceeded with the presentation of diplomas, a moment each graduate had eagerly anticipated. As the graduates walked across the stage, they were greeted with applause and cheers from their families and friends.

Finally, Dr. Christopher Ballinger officially declared Warren County High School’s Class of 2024 graduates. “Wildcats, are you ready? Please stand. By the virtue and the authority vested in me, I confer upon you the title of Warren County High School graduate,” he announced. The graduates moved their tassels from right to left, symbolizing the completion of their high school journey.

The Warren County High School Commencement Ceremony was memorable, filled with laughter, tears, and a sense of accomplishment. The Class of 2024 leaves a legacy of resilience, kindness, and unity. Congratulations to all the graduates as they embark on their new adventures!

Go Wildcats!

Watch the Warren County High School Commencement Ceremony on this exclusive Royal Examiner.