Clinton Christian Academy holds historical graduation

By Clinton Courier | June 16, 2022 |

By Randy Bledsoe

Clinton Christian Academy’s (CCA) senior graduation was held on May 13, 2022, in the school’s new Performing Arts and Athletic Center. Ceremonies began at 7 p.m. with an opening welcome by Headmaster Dr. Phillip H. Broome. The Class of 2022 makes CCA history as both the first graduating class to have completed all grades at the school and the first to graduate in ceremonies at the new multi-million-dollar facility.

To the sounds of “Pomp and Circumstance,” twenty-six seniors marched in to take seats on stage and to receive their diplomas. The invocation was given by Student Body President Robin Neblett, also a graduating senior, and Jessica Prevost performed the song, “I Will Remember You.” Salutatorian Connor Patrick Tatum and Valedictorian Alyssa Gabrielle Cornelius spoke on the Christian foundation, education and life preparation they and other seniors had received during their years at CCA. Both stated that the Senior Class was ready for the next steps in their lives and had been well prepared by the school to meet the challenges ahead.

Dr. Richard Wells, director of advancement at CCA and instructor in Bible and world history, gave the keynote address. Dr. Wells spoke on the challenges these seniors would be facing in college and the next steps of their lives. Dr. Wells said the seniors have “a firm foundation to be successful,” and he was confident they would achieve their goals.

Sam Bryson, CCA Board Chairman, and Dr. Broome conducted the award of diplomas to the graduates. Dr. Broome commented how proud he was of the fine ladies and gentlemen and for what they had achieved.

“I know they will be successful in life as they have been at CCA.”

Sadie Strickland, Student Government Association representative, gave the benediction at the conclusion of the ceremony.

Seniors received $716,000 scholarships, and twenty-five of the twenty-six graduates will be attending college this fall. Scholarships ranged from academic excellence, athletic and leadership from various colleges in the South. Valedictorian Alyssa Cornelius will be attending either Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona, Florida, or Mississippi State to prepare for a degree in aeronautical engineering. Salutatorian Connor Patrick Tatum will be attending Mississippi College to begin preparation for a degree in engineering.

2022 CCA seniors receiving diplomas included: Christopher Allen Albritton, Meghan Elizabeth Bruner, Audrey Leigh Bryson, Tessaui Rodrigu’ez Carson, Alyssa Gabriele Cornelius, Anne Marie Crechale, Judith Avery Davis, Katherine Bobbie Lynn Jimenez, Armon J’Sean Johnson, Jr., Timothy Christian Love, Robin Renee Neblett, Ally Kate Noone, Joshua Trevor Pope, Emily Grace Redditt, Cynthia Nicole Shafer, Bryden Deondre Simmons, Ryan Clayton Spears, Sadie Grace Strickland, Connor Patrick Tatum, Joseph Jakar Thomas, Natalie Anne Toups, Laney Ray Walters, Davarius Rashaun White, Ja’Zerius Malik James Whitehead and Kaymen Makalab Wilson.