Class of 2012 awarded diplomas in Gentry graduation

— Seventy-five seniors at Gentry High School were awarded diplomas in graduation ceremonies Friday night at the Bill George Arena on the campus of John Brown University in Siloam Springs.

Kaylin Cripps delivered the valedictorian address, and Shaumbry Patterson, the salutatorian. As class president, Cripps also welcomed family members and friends to the graduation ceremonies. Suzie Sikes led the invocation at the event as lights dimmed and went off more than once.

In addition to a duet performance of the National Anthem by Cripps and Jessica Austad, each also sang solos during the event. Cripps sang “Whenever You Remember,” and Austad sang “You’ll Never Walk Alone.”

High-honor graduates Jessica Austad, Kaylin Cripps, Kanisha Eckart, Josie Graves-Long, Dock Hudson, Shaumbry Patterson, Kendra Pettit, Suzie Sikes, Lacey Stephens, Sarah Tisdale, Donna Vang, Nelson Watson, and honor graduates Julie Lee and Jeannie Nolan were awarded medallions during the opening portion of the ceremonies, with parents and family members presenting them.

Using her own success as an example, Dr. Cheryl Hull addressed the graduates, telling them that their education at Gentry High School is a good foundation from which they can continue their studies, do well and achieve great things.

Gentry School District superintendent Randy Barrett presented the graduates, saying they were truly the finest class to graduate during his tenure as superintendent.

Diplomas were presented by members of the school board as high school principal Brae Harper called the graduates by name.

Community, Pages 9 on 05/16/2012