– information courtesy of Vance County Schools
Family, friends, educators and community leaders watched proudly as 277 graduates representing the Vance County High School Class of 2025 received their diplomas, the first of two commencement exercises today for Vance County Schools.
The morning commencement took place Friday, May 23 at 9 a.m. in Viper Stadium, and began with the posting of colors presented by the Vance County High School proudly honored 277 graduates during its 2025 commencement ceremony, held Friday, May 23, at 9:00 a.m. in Viper Stadium. The event was a celebration of the accomplishments, perseverance, and bright futures of the Class of 2025.
Vance County Early College commencement will take place this afternoon beginning at 5 p.m. in the Wayne Adcock Auditorium, located in the Center for Innovation. This is a ticketed event.
The ceremony opened with the Posting of Colors presented by the North Carolina 81st Air Force Junior ROTC Color Guard based at VCHS, followed by the National Anthem by Dr. Korwind Stokes, VCHS choral director at VCHS.
A special farewell address was delivered by Lia Machado, who offered a heartfelt send-off to the graduating seniors. She said, “In a world that often pressures you to conform or second-guess your worth, holding onto your values and beliefs becomes an act of quiet strength. It’s not always easy—there are moments of doubt and setbacks—but staying grounded in who you are lays the foundation for resilience and self-respect.”
Students received their diplomas from Principal Dr. Nealie Whitt III, Superintendent Dr. Cindy W. Bennett, and Vance County Board of Education Chair Dorothy W. Gooche.
The Class of 2025 showcased exceptional achievement across academics, leadership, service, and postsecondary readiness:
- Academic Honors
○ 2 graduate earned Summa Cum Laude honors (weighted GPA 4.0+) ○ 4 graduates earned Magna Cum Laude honors (weighted GPA 3.6–3.9) ○ 12 graduates earned Cum Laude honors (weighted GPA 3.25–3.5) ● College and Career Readiness
○ 204 college credit hours earned by VCHS students
○ 2 graduates earned Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification
○ 96 students earned WorkKeys certifications,
- Scholarships and Higher Education
○ The Class of 2025 has earned more than $1,343,872 in scholarships and grants
○ 138 students have been accepted to two- or four-year colleges and universities
- Honors and Distinctions
○ 5 students recognized as North Carolina Scholars
○ 16 members of the National Beta Club
○ 7 members of the National Honor Society
○ 48 graduates completed the AVID (Advancement Via Individual
Determination) program
○ Awards included the President’s Award for Educational Excellence, the President’s Award for Achievement, and Music Honors
- Military Enlistment
○ 12 graduates committed to serve in the United States Armed Forces, demonstrating their courage and commitment to our country.
Whitt delivered inspiring remarks, urging graduates to continue striving for excellence and to lead lives of purpose and impact.
As the Vance County High School Class of 2025 prepares to take their next steps into higher education, careers, military service, or other pursuits, the entire Vance County Schools community celebrates their accomplishments and looks forward to the bright futures ahead.
Congratulations, Vance County High School Class of 2025!
Looking Ahead
The celebration at Vance County High School marks the beginning of a series of graduation events across the district:
- AdVance Academy – Friday, June 6 at 2 p.m. at the Center for Innovation ● Vance Virtual Village Academy – Friday, June 6 at 4 p.m. at the Center for Innovation
(Note: All events require a ticket for entry.)
