Here's to the Memories: Huntland Seniors Bid Farewell to the Last Four Years
- Terri Carter
- 5 days ago
- 5 min read
Huntland seniors turned the page on an unforgettable chapter last Thursday night as they gathered on the football field to bid farewell to their high school years. The evening was filled with reflection, emotion, and celebration as family and friends came together to honor the graduating class of 2025. Tears fell, laughter echoed, and memories resurfaced, marking the end of one journey and the beginning of countless new adventures.
As the graduates made their way across the field to the timeless tune of Pomp and Circumstance, class senior Preston Maxwell stepped forward to lead the opening prayer. With heartfelt words, he expressed gratitude for the milestones his class had reached and the accomplishments they had achieved. He acknowledged the teachers, staff, and families who had guided and supported them throughout their journey. In a moment of reflection and hope, Maxwell prayed that his classmates would be blessed and inspired as they embark on the next chapter of their lives. He asked for wisdom in the choices they make, strength to overcome future challenges, and a steady sense of purpose as they step into the world beyond high school.
Seniors Matthew Dickson and Brody Maxwell proudly led the Pledge of Allegiance, setting the tone for a ceremony filled with honor and appreciation. Following the pledge, Brian Reed Jr. took the stage to deliver the official welcoming speech, marking the day as one of celebration, reflection, and anticipation for the future. Reed took a heartfelt moment to express gratitude to the families and teachers who had guided the graduates throughout their journey. He then introduced Huntland High School Principal, Lisa Crabtree, recognizing her unwavering support and leadership, which had shaped and inspired the graduating class.
Principal Lisa Crabtree stepped up to the podium, her voice filled with pride as she addressed the audience on this joyous occasion, celebrating the achievements of Huntland High School’s graduating class. She began by introducing special guests from the Franklin County School Board, followed by a heartfelt recognition of the dedicated administrative team and staff who had played a crucial role in shaping the students' high school journey.
Turning her attention to the graduates, she expressed deep appreciation for those who had guided them along the way, acknowledging the unwavering support of parents and guardians. With gratitude in her words, she invited them to stand and be recognized, honoring their dedication and sacrifices.
Among the many proud moments of the evening, she highlighted a student who had chosen to serve their country by enlisting in the military, commending their commitment to a noble path. She then introduced the salutatorian, Matthew Dickson, applauding his academic achievements and ambition. This fall, Dickson will embark on his next journey at the University of Alabama-Huntsville, majoring in Cyber Security Engineering. With a vision for the future, he plans to pursue a career in Cyber Security Management, ensuring a lasting impact in the field of technology and security.
Dickson shared his heartfelt gratitude as he stood before his classmates, reflecting on the many people who had shaped his journey—family, friends, and dedicated teachers who had supported and inspired him along the way. In a moment of deep appreciation, he gave credit to Jesus, acknowledging the blessings he had received through the guidance of his father, uncle, and coaches, who served as strong role models in his life. He personally thanked the teachers who had played a meaningful role in his development, expressing his belief that God had instilled within his graduating class the ability to achieve great things and make a lasting impact in the world.
The Salutatorian concluded his speech by sharing two scriptures, encouraging his class to be happy, be kind, be patient, and not to worry but, instead, pray to God about everything.
“Every day is a gift.”, stated Dickson. “So, let’s go out and use these gifts and make the world a better place.”
Class Valedictorian Garrett Kuhar then took the stage to deliver his address, marking a proud and reflective moment for the graduating class. This fall, he will begin the next chapter of his journey at the University of Alabama-Huntsville, where he plans to major in Cyber Security Engineering. With a strong vision for the future, Kuhar aspires to build a career in Cyber Security Engineering, determined to make a meaningful impact in the ever-evolving world of technology and digital security.
Garrett Kuhar began his speech with heartfelt gratitude, acknowledging the faculty, staff, families, and friends who had played a vital role in shaping the journey of the graduating class. He reminisced about the lasting friendships and cherished memories, recognizing that while their time at Huntland High was coming to an end, a new and exciting chapter was just beginning.
With confidence in his classmates' potential, Kuhar expressed his belief that they would move forward with strength and purpose, embracing the challenges and opportunities ahead. He reminded them to always hold close the people who had guided and supported them, urging them to never forget those who had made a difference in their lives. In a powerful closing message, he reassured his fellow graduates that no matter how uncertain the path may seem, there is always a light in the darkness—a beacon of hope to guide them through.
“The world is yours.”, stated Kuhar. “Don’t let one problem get in the way of all you can accomplish in life. We’ve all done amazing things in Huntland. And now, it’s time for us to go make an impact on the world.”
Before the long-awaited moment of diploma presentations, Principal Crabtree took a meaningful pause to share Rudyard Kipling’s poem "If", offering words of wisdom and resilience to the graduating class. The poem’s message, rooted in perseverance and strength, set the perfect tone for the milestone ahead.
Then, one by one, the seniors stepped onto the stage, proudly accepting the diplomas they had worked so tirelessly to earn. Each handshake, each certificate handed over, signified more than just the completion of high school—it marked the end of a chapter filled with growth, challenges, and unforgettable moments. With heartfelt pride, Principal Crabtree read the official proclamation, declaring them high school graduates of the State of Tennessee. As the final name was called and the last diploma was awarded, the graduates stood united, ready to embrace the future that awaited them.
The closing prayer was led by Coastlon Ringer. Ringer expressed gratitude for the blessings he and his classmates have received throughout the last four years and asked for God to walk next to each of his classmates during the next years of their lives.
Tassels were turned, caps soared through the air, and families rushed the field, eager to embrace their newest graduate. Fifty-three Huntland Hornets proudly received their diplomas, stepping boldly into adulthood and the endless possibilities that await. While the world stands ready for their next move, the lessons learned, friendships made, and cherished memories of high school will remain with them for a lifetime.
