Both the valedictory and salutatory addresses at Jackson Academy’s graduation ceremony on May 15 focused on themes of overcoming obstacles in the future. Valedictorian Sophie Henderson, who plans to attend New York University, spoke to her classmates about facing challenges and finding solutions when the path forward seems unclear. Salutatorian Aniya Bradley, who will be attending Spelman College, gave the opening remarks, emphasizing that the faculty had prepared the Class of 2025 with valuable lessons on treating others, leadership, critical thinking, as well as resilience and grace in the face of trials.
The JA Band performed both the processional and recessional music. The Choral Music students presented “An Irish Blessing (May the Road Rise to Meet You),” while a slideshow displayed each senior’s name, portrait, and college choice on the Jumbotron. The seniors presented a gift of iron benches to JA for the entrance of the Lower School, allowing the kindergartners, or “Alphas,” to sit and remember their seniors, or “Omegas.”
The evening’s graduation ceremony took place at the Brickyard, Jackson Academy’s outdoor stadium, and the weather provided a rain-free setting for both the graduation and the subsequent Grad Night activities. The 102 members of the Class of 2025 processed across the field to receive their diplomas and special recognition for their academic achievements before participating in the traditional hat toss.
