2015
KEEPSAKE EDITION a special publication of the
CROSSVILLE CHRONICLE
STONE MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL Kayla Dawn Hall
Salutatorian
Honors & Distinction Tennessee Scholar
Emily Payton Swafford Valedictorian Honors & Distinction
CUMBERLAND COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL Amber Jordan Johnson Salutatorian Honors & Distinction
Shivani Rajendra Patel Valedictorian Honors & Distinction Tennessee Scholar
2C • Class of 2015
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Biology class inspires Patel’s future goals By Rebekah K. Bohannon Beeler
Chronicle correspondent
Shivani Patel had a particular goal she was aiming for when it came to her academic career at Cumberland County High School. What she didn’t realize was that she would exceed her goal, her own expectations and her ambitions. When the studious senior was invited to the honors banquet for the top students in the class, she had yet to learn where she stood. She was striving for top 10, and was especially surprised when her name was called as the top of her graduating class. “It was really exciting,” said Patel, who was serenely ambivalent about her accomplishment of becoming the Valedictorian of the CCHS 2015 graduating class and had a kind humbleness about her. “It was really competitive for the top. My parents were ecstatic and really proud.” Patel’s biggest inspiration was her parents, as she said, “They pushed me to be the best I could be.” She also accredits her strengths to having an older brother who was also
photos submitted
Family matters as Shivani Patel, her brother, Jay, celebrate their mother, Manisha, on Mother’s Day. a source for positive competition growing up. She began her high school career taking the advice of her guidance counselors taking every honor’s class available during her freshman year. The first biology class she took at CCHS, honor’s biology taught by Jill Lay, influenced Patel more than she ever could have imagined.
Patel found that it was more difficult than she had anticipated but, at the same time, was more interesting. She was especially taken by the sciences when her class studied the heart. “In the ninth grade, I didn’t know what my future would look like,” said Patel. “When I signed up for all of the honor’s classes, they were
intense and I had to work hard. All of my teachers believed I could achieve and encouraged me to be my best. They helped me expand my ken of all the other subjects.” By then, Patel had become increasingly enthralled with science and math and found that she had a natural inclination for these subjects.
CCHS Valedictorian Shivani Patel attends Culture Day at school in Maine in a traditional dress in the third grade. To her, science and math expanded her mind to be more open to different fields of learning and she was surprised at how they opened so many educa-
tional doors for her. “In government, I didn’t realize how the Bill of Rights can be applied to so See goals page 10C
Cumberland County High School
Top Ten Graduates
Robert Allen Claflin Distinction, Honors
Hannah Gail Hitch Distinction, Honors, Tennessee Scholar
Ana Sophia Franco Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Bradley Lamar Mathis Honors
Karas Elizabeth Cowley Distinction, Honors
Pritum Debnath Distinction, Honors
Matthew James Vaughn Distinction, Honors
Joseph Michael Dixon Distinction, Honors
Congratulations To Our Graduates!
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Cumberland County High School
Cumberland County High School
We’re So Proud Of You Both! Kevin, Sherry & Crystal
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Class of 2015 • 3C
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Johnson exploring medical field for career
B y R ebekah K. B ohannon B eeler
Chronicle correspondent
Amber Johnson, daughter of Donald and Shari Johnson, was acknowledged as the Salutatorian of the Cumberland County High School Class of 2015. Johnson’s primary education was conducted at Meridian Christian Academy through the fourth grade. Then it became Christian Academy of the Cumberlands, which she attended through the seventh grade. Johnson attended South Cumberland Elementary in the eighth grade and started high school at CCHS. She didn’t find out about being the Salutatorian until the honor’s banquet where her standing was announced. No one was more thrilled and surprised than she was. Johnson noted there was stiff competition for the top of the class at CCHS, and said, “I didn’t expect it. My grades were
Jacob Eugene Adams
photo submitted
Salutatorian Amber Johnson has been involved in a variety of athletic activities from a young age. This year, she focused on her schoolwork and softball. my goal, but I still didn’t expect it.” In response to whether or not she had planned to be the class Salutatorian, Johnson said, “That’s actually a funny story. I remember when I was younger, my mom and I
were driving back from school and I saw the sign at Scarlett’s Motors with the name of that year’s Valedictorian and Salutatorian. I told my mom that I wanted my name to be on their sign one day.” When her parents heard
the news at the banquet, Johnson laughed and said, “They were shocked and my mom cried. I think my dad would have, too, if no one would have seen him.” The students were made aware that they were in the top 10 in the class and
invited to the honor’s banquet at Forte’s Restaurant in January. “I figured I was seventh or eighth in the class. My mom was seventh in her class, but there were more students in her class than here. So, my mom did the
math to see where I would have to place in the class to beat hers. I would have had to place fifth. We’re competitive that way,” Johnson said. Johnson has always been extremely motivated and always involved in sports, including softball, volleyball, soccer, dance, and cheer. But for her senior year, she decided to focus on school and softball since she had so much on her plate. Johnson loved having reading and writing projects in school. She has received a number of academic and athletic awards, was a member of FCA, Beta, Interact, and Math Clubs. She also has had a heart for volunteering, from wrapping Christmas gifts and assisting with Special Olympics to helping with the Rotary 5K. She was defensive player of the year in volleyball her freshman and sophomore years and attended the American Legion See CAREER page 11C
Graduates
Shada Reneé Adkins
Joshua Randall Alderman
Brookelin Marie Ashburn
Bryant Lee Bailey
Georgia Kathryn Barnawell
Cody Jerryd Barnes
Honors
Karri Ann Berdy
Dalton Paul Berney
Faith Lee Ann Bolles
Callie Jean Borgialli
Lakeisha Anne Brannon
Sophia Abigail Brawner
Kaitlin Marie Bresaw
Gentry Louden Brown
Selinda Leeanna Bryant
Julie Brooke Bryson
Distinction
Tennessee Scholar
Distinction, Honors
Kenneth Alan Brewer
Shaina Marisa Brewer
Abigail L. Brown
Austin Tyler Brown Honors
Congrats to the entire class of 2015! The City of Crossville looks forward to the leadership you will provide in our community. We’re proud of you and your accomplishments. Represent us well as you take the next steps toward fulfilling your goals and dreams!
COREY FREEMAN SMHS Son of Scott and Donna Freeman Veolia (Partner with the City of Crossville)
JACOB (HUNTER) GARRETT CCHS Son of Monte Garrett
James Mayberry, Mayor • Pamala Harris, Mayor Pro-Tem • Jesse Kerley, Councilman • Danny Wyatt, Councilman • Pete Souza, Councilman
From The CITY OF CROSSVILLE
4C • Class of 2015
Jordan Tyler Buckner
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Kevin Michael Buffkin
Courtney Nichole Burgess
Honors
Jacob Benjamin Campbell
Tyler Joseph Cantrell
Christen Alana Carter
Megan LeAnn Burgess
Ryan William Burgess
Distinction, Honors
Distinction, Honors
Damian Lee Castillo
Casey Wayne Clark
Distinction, Honors
Brandon Ray Busby
Matthew Sawyer Calhoun
Andrew Keith Clouse
Joel Chase Colton
Honors
Sarah Beth Colton
Whitli Sabrina Cranford
Ethan Hunter Cunningham
Tyler Stone Daugherty
Katelyn Danyale Davis
Leslie Renee DeHart
Dustin Wayne Davis
Hope Catherine Davis
Distinction, Honors
Karis Lindsay Davis Honors
Honors, Distinction & Tennessee Scholars
Below the names of graduates in this special supplement, readers will find that some have achieved honors, distinction or as a Tennessee Scholar. Each distinction is earned by meeting certain benchmarks and criteria. Honors Students who score at or above all subject area benchmarks on the ACT or equivalent are recognized as graduating with honors. Those scores are 18 in English, 22 in math, 21 in reading and 24 in science. Distinction Students will be recognized as graduating with distinction if they attain a B average and complete at least one of the following: • Earn a nationally recognized industry certification; • Participate in at least one of the Governor’s Schools; • Participate in at least one of the state’s All State music organizations; • Be selected as a National Merit Finalist or SemiFinalist; • Attain a score of 31 or higher composite on the ACT; • Attain a score of 3 or higher on at least two advanced placement exams; • Successfully complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma program; or • Earn 12 or more semester hours of transcripted post-secondary credits. Tennessee Scholar Those earning the distinction of Tennessee Scholars have completed a demanding high school curriculum that emphasizes “on level” and above courses in mathematics, science, social studies, language arts and computer literacy. It also stresses the importance of attendance, dependability and service to the community, requiring 80 hours of community service. The Tennessee standard is based on the existing Tennessee Higher Education system, which includes career and technical schools, community colleges, the Board of Regents university system and the University of Tennessee. It also fully considers the manufacturing and service industries in Tennessee and the trainable workforce needed for continuing their operations or new industry. This Tennessee standard will allow students to pursue academic excellence to enter colleges, universities or the technical workforce.
Erin Alexandra Dille
Megan Elizabeth Dunn
Kayla Liza Gail Dishman
Marissa Erin Dodson
Kevin Sam Dohs II
Emanuel Joshua Dunaway
Summer Layne Dyer
Jeffrey Willis Flynn
Amanda Deanne Ford
Ashley Renee Frazier
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” - Eleanor Roosevelt
Congratulations Graduates! Good Luck To The Class of 2015! We Are Proud Of You!
& Za ch a ry W illia m s
Stone Memorial High School
Dr. David Tabor
Monday - Friday 7am - 6pm Saturday 7am - 1pm
931-456-6569
761 WEST AVENUE • CROSSVILLE, TN
w w w .Ja n d R Auto .co m
Regina Ann Dick Distinction, Honors, Tennessee Scholar
Distinction
and a special salute to
8th Grade Stone Elementary
Christian Kenton Dick
Distinction, Honors
Congratulations To The Class Of 2015 Bria n n a W illia m s
Cheyanne Le DeLong
Distinction
Cumberland Medical Plaza • Suite 340
931-707-8808
On behalf of the City of Crossville, Best wishes to all dedicated seniors who are celebrating your graduation with friends, family & teachers who have encouraged and supported you along the way. As you turn the page to the next chapter, the future is yours to write. Fill it with new experiences, and rewarding choices that help make the world a better place. Sincerely,
Mayor James Mayberry
Class of 2015 • 5C
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Colton Eric Freitag
Bailey Lynn Galan
Jacob Hunter Garrett
Distinction, Honors, Tennessee Scholar
Mercedes Anna Grace Garrison
Samantha Gayle Catherine Gilliam
Cadin Bradley Graham
Robert S. Guthrie
Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Distinction
Matisha Denisha Harris
Zachary Taylor Hartley
Tyler Ray Hatfield
Kyle Joeseph Hedgecoth
Taylor Marianne Holbrook
Dakota Michael Holmes
Jalen Arleigh Holt
Christopher Camden Jones
Brittany Rena Kilgore
Christopher Jose Gutierrez
Layken Brooke Hale
Taylor Leann Hammons
Haley Denise Hembree
Nathan L. Hembree
Christina Skye Higgins
Mason Shaw Hill
Distinction, Honors, Tennessee Scholar
Distinction, Honors, Tennessee Scholar
Jaclyn Rose Ilgenfritz
Christian Cade Isaacson
Ashley Elizabeth Johnson
Tennessee Scholar
Honors
Honors, Tennessee Scholar
Stephanie Anne Kolhepp
Jessica Lane
Jonathan Terry Lee
Mitchell Allen Huffaker
Cassandra Grace Iles
Mallory Aylxandria Klepadio
Ashley Lynn Knott
Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Victoria Nicole Lee
Colt Ryan Lewis
Distinction, Honors, Tennessee Scholar
Honors
Special notice:
Due to the fact some students may have completed graudation requirements early, their pictures may not be included with this group. At the time of publication, this was a compilation of the graduating Stone Memorial High School, Cumberland County High School and Phoenix School seniors who had indicated they would be participating in graduation ceremonies.
“Share your sparkle wherever you are.” - Dodinsky
Congratulations Class of 2015 and a special salute to our graduates...
Congratulations Class Of 2015 A Special Salute To...
MacKenzie N. True SMHS Daughter of Doreen Santo Domingo
Jonathan Matthews SMHS
Dillion James (DJ) Shelton
Haley Marie Mitchell
CCHS Son of Tamara Pugh
CCHS Daughter of David Mitchell
Cade Isaacson CCHS
Karis Davis CCHS
Abigail Brook Gibson
Logan Henderson
Taylor Thomas
Monterey High Cookeville School High School SMHS Son of Kris Daughter of Adam Daughter of & Dewona & Robin Thomas Sandy Gibson and Henderson LeeRoy Gibson INC.
Phone: 456-8614 Toll Free: 866-876-Fire (3473) Fax: 456-2328 1080 Miller Ave., Crossville
Bret Leeann Suggs SMHS Daughter of Amy Bowman
Katie Barnes SMHS Daughter of Charlotte & Doug Barnes
Heath Swallows CCHS Son of Tonya and Dwayne Swallows Tony works for Daisy Luna
NOT PICTURED: Monica Beasley Scott County High School Daughter of Charles and Amy Beasley
6C • Class of 2015
Skylor Santana Long
Letheal Curtis Loshbough
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Amy Leanne Loveday
Dalton Michael Lowe
Felicia Ann Manthooth
Lindsey Morgan Marsh
Taylor Dean McAnally
Blake Stone McLaughlin
Mariah Elizabeth Sue Meek
Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Seth Keano Reed McBride
Austin Jerald Melton
Brendan William McCartt
Seth Ryan McCloud
Ronald Dale Miller III
Talin Martan Miller
Honors
Ryan Allen Moore
Jenna Lynn Morton
Daniel Keith Murphy
Britney Lee McDaniel
Justin Thomas McElroy
Distinction, Honors, Tennessee Scholar
Distinction, Honors, Tennessee Scholar
Peter Bruce Minneci
Haley Marie Mitchell
Emily Ann Monday
Crystal Ann Moore
Distinction, Honors
Distinction, Honors, Tennessee Scholar
Honors, Tennessee Scholar
Distinction, Honors
Amber Georgette Murray
Erik Karl Myers
Joseph Brandon Myers
Rachel Adriana Myers
Distinction
Jacob Denton Nealey
Terry Grant Parrett
Kylie Josephine Nichols
Meshva Rakesh Patel
Abigail Elizabeth Norris
Jasmine Elizabeth Pedde
Honors
Olivia McKenzie Nye
Thomas Andrew O’Connor II
Adam Jay Page
Dylan Russell Palmer
Honors
Tanner David Penwell
Angel Renee Perry
Patrick Dwayne Phillips
Tyler Clay Piercy
Tennessee Scholar
CCHS Graduation • May 14 • 6:30 p.m. • CCHS Football Stadium Congratulations To all our Graduates! No matter how far your journey takes you from us, we are proud to call you family and neighbors Best Wishes with Whatever Your Future Brings
Thank You For Your Support!
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1251 North Main St. • Crossville • 931-484-1112
1282 North Main, Crossville • 931-456-9591
Class of 2015 • 7C
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Diego C. Poore
Tyler Nathaniel Potter
Austin Matthew Ray
Morgan Jae Richards
Anceito Angel Rivera
Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Caitlin Dawn Roysdon
William Heath Robbins
Bobby Ray Rogers
Honors
Jason Timothy Scholl Jr.
Rachel Fae Scroggins
Jessica Kate Sexton
Dillon J. Shelton
Billy Thomas Sherrill
Landon Spencer Sherrill
Andrew Parker Shields
Sara Louise Shinn
Hannah LeeAnn Simmons
Brooke Autumn Siwka
Benjamin Hayden Smith
Bethany Faith Smith
Brittany Danielle Smith
Distinction, Honors, Tennessee Scholar
Tennessee Scholar
Brooklyn Nichole Smith
Detroit Austin Smith
Virginia April Sproul
Isabella Nicole Staggs
Honors
Kassidy Lee Sommer
Kiara Thalia Soto
Distinction, Honors
Haley Lauren Spriggs Distinction, Honors
Distinction, Honors, Tennessee Scholar
Congratulations GRADUATES Haley Barnwell
Karri Berdy
Abigail Brown
Dustin Davis
SMHS Granddaughter of Vera Brown
CCHS Daughter of Toshua Berdy
CCHS Granddaughter of Phyllis Brown
CCHS Brother-In-Law of Sara Davis
Christian Dick Matthew Jacobson Patrick Phillips
Emily Richards
Roanoke Valley Christian Schoool Grandson of Barbara Moore
SMHS Friend of Whitney Webster
CCHS Son of Vetta Dick
Aniecto Rivera
Brandon Sparks
CCHS Nephew of Mary Jesus
Zephyrhills High School, Florida Brother of Kayla Elmore
Nathaniel Wyatt CCHS Grandson of Regina Webb
CCHS Brother of Kayla Phillips
and a Special Salute to our Graduates! Daniel Murphy Cumberland County High School Grandson of Terry Murphy
Alyssa Lloyd Stone Memorial High School Daughter of Steve Lloyd
Chase Keyes Stone Memorial High School Son of Renia Keyes
Jerrica Hale Stone Memorial High School Family Member of Kay Parsons
Curtis Campbell Stone Memorial High School Son of Penny Campbell
Jonathan Janeway Stone Memorial High School Son of Richard Janeway
Taylor Reagan Stone Memorial High School Daughter of Angie Reagan
Jessica Sexton Cumberland County High School Daughter of Vickie Sexton
Brandon Busby Cumberland County High School Grandson of Lisa Warburton
Shaunda Broeckel Phoenix High School Granddaughter of Shirley Kilby
Marissa Dodson Cumberland County High School Granddaughter of Diana Dodson
Kayla Parsons Stone Memorial High School Granddaughter of Kay Parsons
Kerri Deck Stone Memorial High School Daughter of Jim Deck
Mary Thomas Kayla Danielle Walker CCHS Sister of Catherine Kutchey
TN Tech Granddaugher of Vera Brown
Not Pictured
2015
From
Paula Williams CCHS Sister-in-Law of Catherine Kutchey
Connor Barnwell
North Cumberland 8th Grade Grandson of Vera Brown
Olivia Stokes South Fentress 8th Grade Niece of Veronica McDonald
NOT PICTURED
Erika Reed Danielle Brannon Brandy Boles Kayla Walker Marissa Voelker Bobby Bradshaw Tennessee Tech Tennessee Tech Parkway North - Stone Memorial Cumberland County Roane State Saint Louise University University High School High School Community College Granddaughter of Daughter of Associate Associate Son of Associate & Daughter Phyllis Filler Laura Walker Kirtus Bradshaw of April Brannon
WyndRidge Health & Rehabilitation Center
168 Obed Plaza • 484-9745
8C • Class of 2015
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Newly appointed commissioner of education touts importance of post-secondary education By Chris Phipps
Citizen Tribune Staff Writer
JEFFERSON CITY — No longer will getting students to walk across the podium be the pinnacle goal for educators in the state of Tennessee, according to newly appointed education commissioner Dr. Candice McQueen. As part of her first tour across the state, McQueen gave a presentation on her office’s new goals and pathways of achievement, all of which tie into the governor’s well-known Drive to 55 goal. It was held with an audience of current and future educators at Carson-Newman University. McQueen said (the state’s) opportunity is around a new vision, which is success after high school
graduation. “For as many years as I’ve been in K-12 education, we’ve talked about getting students to graduation. There’s nothing wrong with that, we want all our students to do so. It’s a celebratory moment. But now graduation in our state and across the nation is the base; it’s foundational,” she said. “Our goal in K-12 should be ensuring they have success after they graduate. Can they go on to postsecondary and do what’s expected of them? Can they go into the workforce and have the soft skills needed to be successful? We have got to stop thinking of graduation as the pinnacle, it’s the floor of what’s expected,” she continued. “By 2025, 55 percent
of new jobs in Tennessee will require post secondary education. We need to make sure students aren’t just graduating but are also getting certifications related to those jobs. There are not enough people currently meeting this benchmark to fill the job market,” she said. McQueen alluded to the Gov. Bill Haslam’s initiative to bring that percent up to 55 by 2025, not to just promote more business in the state but because higher education level leads to a more success, wealth, and a happier population of Tennesseans. “Education is a priority for (Haslam) and the state because we know how we do on the nation’s report card actually encourages more business, more new
jobs to come to Tennessee. (The report card) is an actual indicator of workforce readiness and the education of the workforce in the state of Tennessee. That’s why it’s important that we move from the bottom half to the top half of states on the report card,” McQueen said. McQueen said the current truth is that Tennessee students struggle after high school. She read off statistics that “keep her up at night” including that less than half of third and eighth grade students are proficient or above average in reading, indicating the continuing issue of literacy is far from over in the state. She also said 64 percent of first-time freshman in college need to take at
least one remedial course, which is detrimental to the students finish time and delays them from taking actual courses that count toward graduating credit. The department of education followed the state’s high school graduating class of 2011 of more than 78,000 students. Of those students, those who went straight into the workforce after high school make an average wage of $9,030. From that same group, 40,000 students went directly to postsecondary education. “Fifty-eight percent of them were still enrolled in the second year, which means 42 percent were not enrolled, so that means they’re going on to college but they are not staying,” McQueen said.
“We have to do a better job down in K-12 and in the connectivity to postsecondary to align ourselves for a greater likelihood of success,” she said. Tennessee Promise gives students a free education for K through grades 14 but the Promise has come with a spark of culture change that the state hasn’t seen before with the new opportunity. While she harped on some of the issues the state is facing, she did commend educators for following the changes in standards the state has set since 2007. Those new standards, McQueen said, have set the state and its students up on a successful path of overall improvement. McQueen said four See education page 9C
A Salute To Our Graduates
Congratulations To
Abby Norris You hold the key to the city and our hearts. You earned the Girl Scouts Golden Award and now you are graduating high school. We are so proud of you and your accomplishments. Congratulations. We love you. Dad, Pam & Cats
Congratulations To
Destiny Hitchcock Congratulations our Princess on your graduation. We all love you Poppy, Nana, Mom, GG, Shawn...
Congratulations To
Dakota Lee Ray Smith
We are so proud of you. Way to go. Love, Mom, Dad & Family
Congratulations To
Kalei Hollingsworth You have only just begun! We love you. Your Family
Congratulations To
Haley Spriggs We’re so proud of you. You are a special granddaughter. Love, Granny & Pa Brown
Sarah Colton
You are very special to us. We love you, Mamaw and Grandpa
Congratulations And Good Luck To
Haley Santee We’re proud of you! Love, Your Family & Grandma & Grandpa
Congratulations To
Congratulations To
Congratulations To
You are very special to us. We love you, Grandma and Grandpa
We are proud of you and we love you. The Family
Chase Colton
Samantha Stephens
Congratulations To
Congratulations To
Grandma & Grampa
Our TTU Graduate! We’re so proud of you! Love, Mom & Dad
Ronnie Miller We are so proud of you.
Kayla Walker
Congratulations To
Samantha Stephens We are so proud of you. We love you so much. Nana, Mom, Hailey
Congratulations To
Kerri Deck We love you!
Samantha Paige Carter Congratulations! You did it girl! Love, Your Family in Sparta & Crossville
Congratulations To
Abby Norris We are so proud of you. Good luck in your future. We love you. Pawpaw & Mawmaw
Kim Smith (Mom), Sister Kendra Deck, Mimi & Pa Don, Aunts & Uncles: Kathy & Rick Wilson, Kristie & Jim Johnson, Jimmy & Judy Smith Cousins: Whitney, Ashley & Kelsey Wilson, Julia Goss, Justin Smith, Isabella, Alana & Drake Johnson
Class of 2015 • 9C
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
EDUCATION
• Continued from 8C goals will help meet postsecondary success including continuing to move into the top half of states on the nation’s report card, which can be done by 2019. Tennessee’s seniors will improve faster than any other state beginning in 2017. By 2020, the overall state ACT average score will improve to 21 (currently at 19.3). Finally a majority of graduates (55 percent) will go on to seek a degree or certificate by 2020. McQueen said to achieve those goals there will be priorities set for early foundations like pre-K programs and further assessment and evaluations for students in K-second grade. Other priorities will be met by support educators, further helping economically disadvantaged and minority students, empowering school districts and
giving them more choices and connecting the high school to the postsecondary bridge through workrelated opportunities like intern and externships. To accomplish the goals, McQueen said the pathway will be a collaborative effort with postsecondary schools, like speech host Carson-Newman, local educators and her department. Ending her speech, McQueen commented on the opportunity educations and the general public have to voice their opinion on the math and language arts standards currently in place in the education system. Anyone can visit https://apps.tn.gov/tcas/, the state’s department of education website for an online feedback session. McQueen said those comments will be reviewed and hopefully a new set of standards will be in place by the 2017-’18 school year.
Carson-Newman President Randall O’Brien said he found McQueen’s speech inspiring in that the work for postsecondary begins at an early age. “But when (students) come to us and they need that remedial work, then it’s incumbent upon us to make sure that work is successful. It’s really important that we help them personally and professionally, so we can work with them one-on-one and encourage them. That’s how you make sure that 42 percent (who leave after their first year of college) is reduced,” O’Brien said. C-N education department chair Kim Hawkins spoke with her students directly after McQueen’s speech and said they were left inspired and hopeful for their future career. “They are excited about the progress Tennessee is making and being a part of that progress,” she said.
What’s part of the Drive to 55? Gov. Bill Haslam’s “Drive to 55” campaign looks to improve the state’s graduation rates from the current 32 percent to 55 percent by 2025 in order to help improve overall job qualifications and attract employers to the state.
Tennessee Promise Tennessee Promise will offer two years of tuition-free post-secondary education to Tennessee high school graduates attending community colleges, college of applied technology in the state or pursuing an associate’s degree from any in-state university. “There are no excuses not to go on,” said Rebecca Wood, assistant director of curriculum, instruction and accountability for Cumberland County schools. “We know that a high school diploma is not enough to put you in the best position to be competitive in the workplace. You’ve got to have additional education or additional skills anywhere you go, no matter what you’re interested in. It’s an incredible program to accomplish that.” Tennessee Promise requires interested
students to apply no later than Nov. 1. tnAchieves is the local agency partnering with Cumberland County for Tennessee Promise. The program pairs students with mentors to offer support as students complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Mentors help ensure students meet other important deadlines through the year. There are two required meetings in the spring. Students also apply to a community college and complete eight hours of community service. In the fall of 2015, Tennessee Promise participants begin their post-secondary education, maintaining at least 12 semester hours each semester. To remain eligible, students must maintain satisfactory academic progress, maintaining at least a 2.0 grade point average, and complete at least eight hours of community service each semester. The program is limited to community college or associates degree programs. However, students may earn an associSee Drive page 11C
A Salute To Our Graduates
Congratulations To
Congratulations To
Amber Murray Louis Hamilton We’re proud of you and we love you! Kathy & Ronnie
Congratulations To
Ronnie Miller
Valedictorian and National Merit Finalist. Huntsville, Alabama Love, Nana (Polly Whittle)
Congratulations To
Adam King We’re so proud! Love, Dad, Mom & Andy
From The Palmieris
Congratulations To
Jana Lack
We’re so proud of you! Aim High - Go Far! Love, Mom & Dad
Britney McDaniel
Kendra Sharp
It’s been four long years, but now the day has come. Your life is just beginning as your high school days are done. So proud of you. Love, Mom and Rick
Congratulations To
We are so proud of you. Your dreams are within reach. Love, Ma & Pa
We are so very proud of you! Love, Mama, Daddy and Nanny
Cade Isaacson
Congratulations! Follow your dreams and your heart. Set high standards. Love You, Granny
Congratulations To
Congratulations To
Congratulations To
Benjamin Hayden Smith Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth.
Dodson Abby Norris Marissa We are so proud of our
We are so proud of you. Congratulations. We love you. Granny & Aunt Cindy
granddaughter Marissa Dodson! Congratulations! Love, Papa & Nana
I am so proud of you! Aunt Gail
Congratulations! We couldn’t be prouder parents! Love, Mom & Dad
Congratulations To
A.J. Page
Congratulations To
Congratulations To
Ronnie Miller
Congratulations To
Congratulations To
Cassie Iles
Calynn Whittenburg Congratulations To
Congratulations To
So very proud of you Haley!! All our love and best wishes... Granny Music & Aunt Kat
We’re so proud of you! Love you! Mom, Dad, Nana and Grandpa
Haley Jo Music
Amber Johnson
We’re proud of you! “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” Wishing you the best!
Love, Bill, Sis, and Alexandra
10C • Class of 2015
Kayla Katherine Stamper
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Victoria Elaine Stanley
Samantha Abigail Stephens
Bradley James Straka
Ashley Marie Streeter
Brittney Marie Stubbs
Emily Danielle Swafford
Distinction, Honors, Tennessee Scholar
Distinction, Honors, Tennessee Scholar
Madeline Raye Toy
Kevin D. Uebelacker
James Chase Underwood
Distinction, Honors
Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Skylar Layne VanWinkle
Trenton Daniel Waldo
Honors, Tennessee Scholar
Honors
Heath Joseph Swallows
Emily Caroline Terpening Distinction, Honors
Mary Elizabeth Rose Thomas
Raychal Logen Tinch
Distinction
Mashayla Brooke Underwood
Dhruv Upadhyay
James Vallecillo
Matthew Joseph Vanlandingham
Distinction, Honors
Distinction
Distinction, Honors
Students Not Pictured Marcus Justin Bell James Daniel Dixon Dakota Dylan Durbin Austyn Keith Everett
Tracy Lynnette Newman Cassidy Lynne Raby Dakota Micheal Reed Erika Jordan Reed
Honors
Distinction, Honors
Kayla Lee Ford Nathan James Garvin Isaiah Ethan Gonzalez Stephan Paul Hakes Kristan LeAnn Keen Kameron Lee Kubs Kayla Michele Lance Alexa Camille Mann Grace Angeline Mathes
Brianna Leigh Reid Josh Curt Roberts Dayshon Jose Senna Zachary Allen Sisco Joseph Tyler Smith Devin Cody Rogers-Stokes Savannah Rose Teague Robert Michael Templeton Thomas Devin Weinblatt Paula Victoria Williams
Honors
Karysa Renae Mae-Jean Mazur
Mica Nathan Wanamaker
Distinction
GOALS
working in a hospital and then hopefully branching off with a team of surgeons to start her own practice. “I was really interested in surgery and when we studied the heart, it made sense,” said Patel, “[Biology] was my favorite subject all through school.” Patel was involved in many academic clubs as part of her extracurricular activities. She also loved to volunteer and thoroughly enjoyed swimming and reading. She was an officer for Health Occupational Students of America (HOSA), Beta Club, vice president of the Math Club, a volunteer with the Interact Club, and
• Continued from 2C many situations and how they can affect our lives and my objectives,” said Patel. Those initial classes at CCHS made such an impact on Patel that she plans to study at the University of Tennessee and will be pursuing her undergraduate degree in her favorite subject, biology. She then plans to attend medical school become a cardiothoracic surgeon. She sees herself
CONGRATULATIONS TO
COLTON LEE McCLANAHAN With a Special Salute to
ZACHARY WILLIAMS Stone Memorial High School
Congratulations - We are so proud of you. Love, Mom, Dad & Brianna
Congratulations to the Class of 2015 and a special salute to our graduate
Matthew Calhoun
tutored in English, math and chemistry. Her volunteer work continued outside of school with offering her time and assistance to Christmas on the Mountain, Operation Christmas Child, Bread of Life, Salvation Army, and the library, among others. She has received many academic accolades including placing in state HOSA competitions and many awards in math. Her father was originally a chemist and her mother a lab technician who later became interested in business and now manage a hotel. Her brother currently attends UT and also plans to become a surgeon, but hasn’t decided on a
specialty yet. In response to the comment that she exceeded even her own expectations, Patel said, “You have to put all the effort you can put into your objective you have desired for a long time. No matter how difficult a situation seems, you can always proceed with your own ambition and determination to achieve any goal you have in your mind. I have had fantastic teachers and brilliant students who have competed with me and influenced me to be someone who strives to be the best I can be. I always wanted to be my best but I didn’t know I could do it. Hard work pays off.”
Congratulations Class of 2015!
Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Business Management from Tennessee Technological University Colton is graduating Summa Cum Laude John Smith Pharmacy
Son of Janson and Nancy McClanahan
100 Lantana Road, Crossville, TN 484-1434 or 484-6553
Bo Wyatt Cumberland County High School
CONGRATULATIONS To Logan Adams And all the graduating class of 2015! We are so proud of you all!
Donald Ray Sanders York Institute, Jamestown
Leisure Kraft Pontunes
Cumberland County High School
MANUFACTURING PONTOON BOATS 1996 Peavine Road • Crossville, TN
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Class of 2015 • 11C
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Landon Matthew Warner
Jesse Aaron Willis
Tyler Louis Weaver
Jacob Ethan Wills
Joshua John Whittenberger
Ethan Bryce Winningham
Calynn Elizabeth Whittenburg
Elizabeth Leeann Williams
Bailey Madison Woods
Shannon Marie Wooll
Isaiah Willier Honors
Lauren Bailey Wright
Distinction, Honors
Bo Brent Wyatt
Nathaniel Ryan Wyatt
Haleigh Michelle Yates
Daniel Miguel Zamora
Distinction, Honors
CAREER
• Continued from 3C Auxiliary Volunteer Girls State her junior year. As an avid player of sports dedicated to her studies, time with family was about the only other activity Johnson could manage, time wise. “It’s been a great four years. I have learned a ton from my teachers and I plan to use what they taught me in the future. My teachers pushing me to excel helped get me to this point and I will miss their guidance,” said Johnson. She would like to travel but isn’t sure about when she might get to that. She plans to attend ETSU for her undergraduate degree in pre-med, followed by medical school. Johnson has not decided what medical field she would like to study, but her chemistry classes hold a lot of fascination for her and she definitely sees herself putting that passion to good use in the medical field. Because she is undecided as to what she would like to specialize in, Johnson has decided to do some job shadowing to give her a better idea as to what field of medicine would best suit her. There is always one class that shifts and shapes a student’s direction, leading
to their educational path and career destination. For Johnson, that class was Linda McDuffee’s honor’s chemistry class. “I love Chemistry because it’s more math,” said Johnson. “My parents have mentioned pharmacology to me and I think that might be a real possibility and I’d like to explore that option. But, I’ve also considered radiology and anesthesiology. I’d much rather be a doctor behind the scenes. I’m rather orderly.” As an only child, Johnson’ parents made every effort to be supportive. Her mother also loved working with numbers managing a company and her father was an appraiser but recently has been working with the railroad out-of-state. No matter what, though, Johnson knew he would always make it home for her softball tournaments. “My parents are very influential, especially since I’m the only child. They are my best friends,” said Johnson. She also accredits her success to the encouragement from her grandparents, Dianne Panky, Donald Johnson Sr., and Hubert and Theresa Boggus. “They support me as my parents do and come to
all the events they possibly can,” said Johnson. “They are a strong part of my support system.” When Johnson was in elementary school, her mother was diagnosed with cancer. “She’s my hero. I saw my mother fight and survive cancer. She’s had melanoma and breast cancer. She took chemo and fought it. They’ve found a spot on her ribs and spine, but she just walks all the time, does what she can to stay healthy and takes her treatments. It definitely has influenced me. I would love to see the day when there’s a cure and her illness has definitely influenced me to join the medical field. I don’t think I’m tough enough to be an oncologist, but the thought to just to be contributing to the medical field and laying a foundation for a cure to her illness is motivating. I think about the possibility that I could be contributing to the cure. I may decide to go into medical research. I like the idea of discovery.” Johnson’s academic philosophy has proven successful as she said, “To always work hard even when she may feel it is going unnoticed.”
Congratulations To The 15 Class Of 2015 and a special salute to
Brittney Stubbs
We Are So Proud Of You!
Stubbs Medical Center
189 Lantana Road • Crossville • 931-456-0881
DRIVE
• Continued from 9C ates degree and transfer to a four-year university and realize significant cost savings by doing so. “You see so many students coming out of college with debt that takes years to overcome,” Wood said. “I’m excited for our students to have this opportunity to put them in a better place to pursue the career they want to. It makes it affordable to get that education, and if they continue on, they’ve gotten a good start.” According to Frequently Asked Questions for Tennessee Promise, forecasts show much of the increased workforce demand will be in skills provided at TCATs and community colleges.
Tennessee Reconnect Tennessee College of Applied Technology Crossville will host an open house from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 28, for area adults to sign up for the Tennessee Reconnect grant, a new program that allows Tennesseans to attend a technical college tuition free. The event is designed to encourage adults to enroll in The Tennessee Reconnect program, Governor Haslam’s initiative to provide eligible adults the opportunity to earn a diploma or certifi-
cate at a Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) free of tuition and mandatory fees. Tennessee Reconnect is part of the Drive to 55, an initiative focused on increasing the number of Tennesseans with a college degree or technical certificate. The TN Reconnect Grant is a last-dollar scholarship, meaning it will cover the remaining costs of tuition and mandatory fees for a TCAT program after other state and federal financial aid has been applied. During Scholarship Saturday, adults may come to TCAT Crossville between the hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to tour the campus, learn more about available training programs, and use the college’s computers to sign up online. “Tennessee Reconnect is such an incredible opportunity for adults to gain critical skills and enter the workforce,” said Alison Nunley. Nunley is the TCAT Crossville Reconnect spokesperson.“Scholarship Saturday is an opportunity to come see firsthand the opportunities we offer at TCAT Crossville and take the first step towards admission.” Drive to 55 Executive Director Mike Krause said he hoped many Tennessee adults would attend the event nearest them.
“Now, more than ever, Tennessee needs a workforce that is educated and trained for the 21st century workforce,” Krause said. “Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology offer an incredible chance for an adult to gain a new skill, become workforce-ready, and learn real-world skills from skilled faculty.” The Tennessee College of Applied Technology is at 910 Miller Ave. in Crossville. It can be reached at (931) 484-7502. The TCAT Crossville offers professional, state of the art training in 17 different areas. These areas include administrative office technology, automotive technology, building construction, collision repair, commercial driving license, computer-aided drafting, computer technology, electricity, electronics, heating ventilation air-conditioning and refrigeration, hybrid/electric vehicle technician, industrial maintenance, machine tool technology, practical nursing, surgical technology and welding.
Way to go, Class of 2015!
We Salute Our Graduates And The Entire
Class Of 2015!
We’re Proud Of You! Dylan Palmer
FLOWERS Specialty Snack Sales, LLC Cumberland County High School Son of Tammy Palmer
1227 Livingston Road • Crossville, TN 38555 • 931.484.2192
12C • Class of 2015
Christian Academy of the Cumberlands Quinn Baylosis Valedictorian
Lucas Williams
Congratulations to the Class of 2015!
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Newspapers an ideal educational tool Many of today’s classrooms are filled with all types of emerging technologies, which educators use to enhance their students’ educational experiences. However, the humble newspaper has long been a staple in the classroom and at home and remains one of the best tools for learning. Newspapers can be used to further children’s academic abilities in a variety of ways. Improve reading fluency Fluency, comprehension and inference of text are lessons that begin as soon as a child begins learning how to read. Children need access to a variety of reading materials so they can expand their knowledge and vocabulary base, and it’s never too early to introduce youngsters to the newspaper as not only a source of local and national information, but also as a reading tool. Parents can go through the newspaper with their children and select arti-
cles that may be of interest. A section devoted to local events or a particular theme, such as sports or fitness, may be good starting points. Children can have fun matching headlines with photos and following the sequence of the stories that continue on another page. They’re also bound to be exposed to a number of new words and phrases as they read newspaper articles, which helps improve their vocabulary. Strengthen writing skills Newspaper articles are written differently than books. Exposing children to a journalistic style of writing can help them with their own writing assignments. Teachers often stress that narratives and other writing assignments should follow a certain format so students learn to express themselves clearly. Students are urged to validate statements with proof and to have a logical flow to their
work. By reading articles in newspapers, students can gain an understanding of how to introduce a subject, expand on facts and summarize a point. Students who tend to be more pragmatic writers may connect with the journalistic style of writing more so than students who excel at creative prose. Children can practice reporting on different events in and around their communities, emulating the style of writing presented in newspapers. They also can learn the differences between editorial and opinion pieces. Make current events accessible Newspapers are an inexpensive connection to culture and information from around the world. Through newspaper articles, students can better understand political, financial and entertainment issues spanning the globe. Staying abreast of
the latest news from around the world can help students become more well-rounded and learned. Students who may have read about events in a history book can compare those accounts to current information on what is happening in the world today. Develop an Eye for Photography Stunning, award-winning photographs are published in newspapers nearly every day. A picture is worth a thousand words, and newspaper photography helps readers interpret stories and bring the words to life through imagery. Access to newspaper photography can open up an entirely new world for children. It also may inspire their own creative works. Students may be inundated with technological resources both at school and home. But perhaps no classroom resource can match the array of benefits provided by newspapers.
EAST TENNESSEE DODGE
IS PROUD TO CONGRATULATE THE GRADUATES OF THE
CLASS OF 2015!! A special salute to...
Jesse Gibson SMHS
Tiffany Cokkinias SMHS
Kerri Deck SMHS
Megan Shaw SMHS
Amber Tollett SMHS
Ali Livesay SMHS
Brad Smith SMHS
Taylor Smith SMHS
Brooke Amos SMHS
Bo Newcome SMHS
NOT PICTURED
Ben Lee (Homeschool)
Jordan Buckner CCHS
CUMBERLAND FELLOWSHIP CHURCH & THE ATTIC 1640 West Avenue
Brandon “Gage” Spence Stone Memorial High School
Taylor Dean McAnally Cumberland County High School
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Just Off I-40 at Exit 317 in Crossville • 931-484-9746
Class of 2015 • 1D
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Congratulations to the
CLASS OF
2015
Stone Memorial High School
Top Ten Graduates Swafford: ‘You learn
with everything you do’
By Rebekah K. Bohannon Beeler Chronicle correspondent
Megan Chyvonne Shaw
Kesnei Shea Campbell
Angel Nicole Feeler
Honors, Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Honors, Distinction
Honors, Distinction
Devon Seth Neal
Katlyn Danielle Peterson
Roxanne Gonzalez
Honors, Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Honors, Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Honors, Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Ali Linora Livesay
Hayley Marie Fisher
Jana Brielle Lack
Honors, Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Honors, Distinction
Honors, Distinction
Throughout her high school career at Stone Memorial High School, Emily Swafford has had a devout passion for academia, athletics, and volunteering, with a clear picture of where she stood and a heart full of Panther Pride. The graduating senior was named valedictorian of the Class of 2015. “It was pretty clear here based off our work ethic the past four years,” said Swafford, in regards to whether she knew if she would become the class valedictorian or not. “But, really, we were more just trying our best all of the time.” That work ethic included Swafford’s hyper-vigilant aptitude for time management, which she champions as her saving grace when she was overscheduled with school, clubs, volunteering, dance, and cheer and still needed to do homework despite being exhausted or wanting to do something else, like spend time with friends. She noted that she sometimes just had to put her books down and get See learn page 5D
photo submitted
Dance is one of Emily Swafford’s favorite extra-curricular activities. She’s hoping to continue her study of dance when she attends the University of Miami.
CONGRATS GRADS! Best of Luck and Good Wishes For Your Future!
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484-1229 • 33 Azalia Ave. Ben Tel Shopping Cntr. • 484-2352
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Congratulations 2015 Graduates! We’d like to take this opportunity to salute the graduates of 2015. We know it took a lot of hard work and dedication to achieve this accomplishment. We’re very proud of your efforts! Keep up the great work as you continue to face new and exciting challenges. We look forward to seeing you achieve even greater things in the future!
and special salutes to
Frank Pursell
M.B.A. Tennessee Tech University Son of Brice and Kathy Pursell
Taylor McAnally
Cumberland County High School Son of Honey and Terry McAnally
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With education, there are no limits to the success you can achieve. Don’t be afraid to pursue your dreams. May you continue to learn, grow and reach new heights. CONGRATULATIONS EVERYONE, AND SPECIAL CONGRATS TO
TORI HARRIS SMHS
MARKIE BARNWELL SMHS
ETHAN CUNNINGHAM CCHS
C K Y T OP O R
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2D • Class of 2015
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Try your best, always, says Salutatorian Hall By Rebekah K. Bohannon Beeler Chronicle correspondent
Stone Memorial High School was proud to announce Kayla Hall as salutatorian of the Class of 2015. Throughout her entire primary and secondary educational years, Hall was very decisive about her interests, her studies, was involved with many clubs in school, and actively participated in community service projects. As a testament to her dedication to school, Hall has had perfect attendance 10 years. In response to being asked whether or not she had anticipated the honor of being her class’ salutatorian, Hall said, “I wasn’t striving for salutatorian. I just wanted to do my best and see how far I could go.” Hall’s biggest influence was her mom, a teacher, who always pushed her to do her very best. She also
Cierra Jade Adams
accredits her friends for being incredibly supportive and encouraging. “But, in the end, I always pushed myself even harder,” said Hall. “My friends were always telling me I can do it. When others slacked on the easier subjects, I still went home and studied it anyways, even if I already understood it.” Hall recognized that with her mother’s influence came a lot of support and, because her mom did well in school and graduated high in her class, there was an incentive there to do just as well. She often had her mother check her completed school work to make doubly sure that it was as presentable as possible. “She was a source of accountability for me,” said Hall. Hall was thrilled at the verification of her salutatorian title and said, “My parents are very, very proud. They knew I’d be far up but didn’t know
this far. They are telling everyone about it.” Hall was a member of the SMHS marching band for three years playing the clarinet which took up a lot of her time. She especially loved playing at the Friday night football games and pep rallies. “Band is always fun,” said Hall. “Sometimes it was hard to juggle with all of my other priorities and obligations, but it was always a lot of fun. We have a very large group and it’s so diverse. You can make a lot of friends that way.” Besides band, Hall was a member of the Math, Read, Beta, and Psych Clubs at SMHS. Her volunteer work included serving with the Salvation Army, Relay for Life, Special Olympics, Operation Christmas, USPS food drives, tutoring with Special Ed classes, Christmas on the Mountain, and is very actively involved with her church. Hall plans to attend
Tennessee Technological University (TTU) to study chemical engineering. “I love chemistry and physics. I loved the classes and I thought it was so interesting, I should give it my best try. I can see myself maybe working at Y12 and plan to job shadow and see what types of positions are available there. But, my long term goal is to make new products.” Hall’s words to work by were, “Never give up. Keep trying and trying until you succeed. Eventually, good things will come of it. Just try your best. If someone is doing better, shake it off and keep going. Doing your best is good enough. You can’t be perfect all the time. Just learn from it and try again.” And try as she may, there is no doubt that Kayla Hall can accomplish anything she puts to mind.
Graduates
Logan Lee Adams
Adam Lee Adcox
McKenzie Sierra Allen
Ashley Nicole Allred
Honors, Distinction
Honors
Katie Louise Barnes
Haley Breann Barnwell
Markie Nicole Barnwell
Jacob Ian Barringer
Thomas Chase Beaty
Honors
Honors & Distinction
Hannah Ellen Benson
Michael Anthony Bilbrey
Sean Michael Branch
Tommy Jay Breeding
Hayleigh Renee Brown
Honors
Ayleen Alexa Avila Castaneda
Caitlin Marie Barnes
Emily Kay Begley
Rayne Cortlend Bennett
photo submitted
Hall was a member of the SMHS marching band for three years playing the clarinet which took up a lot of her time.
Brooke Lauren Amos
Victoria Lorraine Austin Distinction
Honors
Honors
SMHS Graduation • May 15 • 6:30 p.m. • SMHS Football Stadium C ongratulations
Congratulations And Best Wishes To Our Graduates And The Class Of 2015!
C lass of 2015! NORTH MAIN STREET PHONE: 484-7545
S am u el H agan SM H S
2015
Shada Adkins CCHS
Chase Colton CCHS
Sarah Colton CCHS
Dustin Davis CCHS
Jamey Gillihan SMHS
Kalei Hollingsworth SMHS
Bryson Houston SMHS
MacKenzie True SMHS
Josh Whittenburger CCHS
A bigail G riffin SM H S
484-1114
96 O’Brien Dr. • Crossville & 3770 Peavine Rd., Fairfield Glade
Class of 2015 • 3D
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Richard Grant Brown
Harley Marie Foster Budd
Brian Allen Burnett
Carissa Marie Burnett
Luke Thomas Bussey
Edward Lynn Cagle
Ashley Renae Campbell
Kenneth Andrew Carey
Holly Brooke Chastain
Michael Charles Childers
Hannah Renee Clay
Tiffany Lea Cokkinias
Justin Paul Cook
Honors
Honors
Kaitlin Sue Cross
Aaron Ray Davis
Honors, Distinction
Curtis Lynn Campbell
Tiffany Michelle Copeland
Neil Allen Corson
Austin Jerred Creselious
Brittany Gail Cross Honors
Alexander Jackson Davis
Honors
“The fireworks begin today. Each diploma is a lighted match. Each one of you is a fuse.” - Edward Koch
We Salute Our Graduates And The Entire Class Of 2015!
Congratulations To All Graduates! and a special salute to...
KELSEY A. POLSTON Daughter of Kathy and Ted McCaslin Strayer University Georgia Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS)
MELODY R. CARSON Daughter of Rebecca Carson Hilton and Neal Carson MTSU - M.S. Mass Communications
DEVON FRAZIER Phoenix Son of Scott Frazier
JUSTIN McELROY
CCHS Son of Jeremy McElroy
COREY SEBASTIAN SMHS Son of Scott Sebastian
HALEY BARNWELL
SMHS Daughter of Wally Barnwell
PHYSICIANS’ ASSOCIATES, LLC 1645 S. Main, Ste 101 • Crossville • 484-7531
Crossville Christian School 931-484-0026 crossvillechristian.org
ROXANNE GONZALEZ
JESSICA SEXTON
HAYLEY REED
SMHS Daughter of Silvia Granados
CCHS Daughter of Tim Sexton
SMHS Daughter of Denise Reed
D.J. SHELTON
CHEYENNE GIBSON
KAYLA LANCE
TYLER ROBERTS
SMHS Grandson of Peggy Roberts
Congratulations To Our 2015 Kindergarten Graduating Class! We Are So Proud Of You!
CCHS Grandson of Peggy Roberts
Monterey High School Daughter of Paula Gibson
CCHS Daughter of Debbie Lance
DUSTIN DAVIS
CCHS Son of Kevin & Sheila Davis
Brayden Baisley
Eric Ong Alina Thompson
LANDON RAMOS
SMHS Grandson of Sue Bice
ALEXIS MONDAY
SMHS Step Daughter of Olin Hall
PRESTON BLAKE BENTON FRENCH York Institute Grandson of Gladys Smith
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4D • Class of 2015
Joshua Steven Davis
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Trenton Alexander Davis
Tyler Dean Dayton
Kerri Alaine Deck
Samuel Ryan Derossett
Jessica Ethel Inez Dixon
Bailey Lee Eaton
Desiree Danielle Findley
Kelsy Francisco Flores
Corey Scott Freeman
Honors, Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Honors, Distinction
Nathaniel Clark Freeman
Trevor Lee Gilbert
Dennis Shaw Gillespie
Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Chase Warner Eichner
Corey Don Garrison
Sarah Dawn England
John Henry Farley
Thomas James Garrison
Jesse Ray Gibson
Honors, Distinction
Jamey Shane Gillihan
Madyson Geriline Jade Green Honors, Distinction
Abigail Leanne Griffin
Samuel Patrick Hagan
Tori Brooke Harris
Megan LeAnn Hayes
Honors
Honors
LEARN
• Continued from 1D some rest, waking up extra early the next day to get her studying finished before school. “I’ve always been the hardest on myself and pushed myself,” said Swafford. “When I felt super overworked, I was lucky to have those people around me who always encouraged me and kept me together.” Swafford mentioned that at SMHS there was a healthy amount of friendly competition that kept everyone on their toes when it came to their grades. If she and her classmates compared grades, it was more of an encourager to do better the next time or study harder for the next test. However, Swafford also said, “For
Jerrica Brianna Hale
Christian Henry Hall
Honors, Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Honors
Connor Douglas Heavilon
Allison Jane Hedgecoth
Danielle DeShae Henson
Honors, Distinction
Distinction
me, doing my best was not based on other people. It was based on me.” Swafford, whose mother is a teacher at SMHS, has always had the support of her family, but she said they were there for her personally and not necessarily supportive school-wise. “They never had to push me or tell me to get better grades. That was me as an individual,” said Swafford. When it was confirmed that Swafford was the valedictorian, she said, “My parents were proud. I think they always knew I would succeed and do well in high school with my work ethic and determination. They’re happy for me.” Swafford has always had an acute desire for the performing arts, especial-
CONGRATULATIONS! Class of 2015!
We Are Proud of You! A Special Salute to
Mark Austin Morris SMHS
ly dance. She was on the SMHS Dance Team for three years, was a singer in the SMHS Advanced Chorus, attended Governor’s School for the Arts in dance, was cast in several shows at the Cumberland County Playhouse (CCP), and was very active with CCP’s Triple Threat performing arts as a student and an instructor. “Dance was my favorite of my priorities. It’s what I loved to do. It was always a nice break because it was completely different from school. I think about the movement and the choreography and was able to shut everything else out. It was nice to have that and I love my Playhouse family.” Besides being an honor student, dancer and per-
Alex Wade Hamilton
Ali Nicole Harris Honors
former, Swafford was also very active with the student council, was an awarded SMHS Cross Country runner, member of the Math Club, Renaissance Club, and Interact Club. She was also heavily involved in missions programs with her church, travelling twice to Peru on mission trips and once to Guatemala as a translator on a medical mission trip. Swafford also coordinated the 2014 Zombie Run at SMHS to raise money to make polio vaccinations available in underdeveloped countries. Swafford has definitely considered dancing in college and has chosen to attend the University of Miami in the fall with a presidential scholarship of $26,000 a year.
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“I’m excited. They even have a dance program, so I’m hoping to take and possibly minor in dance,” Swafford said, although doesn’t want to declare a major just yet. “My long term goals include medical school, but because I still don’t know what I field of medicine I’d like to study, I want to remain undecided so I can keep an open mind when I start school. I don’t want to declare what kind of doctor I want to be yet, but I think maybe surgery could be a possibility.” Swafford made it perfectly clear that a mundane career would be out of the question and that is why she is considering becoming a surgeon. “I don’t want a job where
I have to stay in the same room all day. I’m restless. As a surgeon, I would be busy and it would be exciting,” said Swafford. In response to her life philosophies, Swafford’s response was, “It’s better to have tried and failed than never to have tried at all. I have to tell myself that all the time, especially with dance,” said Swafford. “Nothing is really a failure, you learn with everything to do.” As for her advice to her classmates and underclassmen, Swafford said, “Try your best, but have fun. Don’t get overwhelmed. If you’ve worked hard, take a break to gather your motivation and strength to get back at it and strive for what you want to do.”
Congratulations To All Our 2015 Graduates! A specialsalute to
JAM ES N ATE W ATTEN BARGER Stone M em orial H igh School
WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU!
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Hwy. 127 N. • 1 Mile North of I-40 • Mike Parrott, Owner
Class of 2015 • 5D
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Destiny LaRae Hitchcock
Kalei Caroline Hollingsworth
Brandon Chase Houston
Bryson Wayne Houston
Savannah Leigh Hughes
Alivia Laural Hutson
Jonathan Tyler Janeway Honors & Distinction
Honors & Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Martin Jimenez
Dakota Lee Karge
Chase Nicholas Keyes
Adam Christopher King
Sarah Doreen Kirkland
Courtney Marie Kontour
Bradley Jason Lambert
Ciara Sunshine Lewis
Alyssa Rae Lloyd
Nolan Wayne Long
Tennessee Scholar
Honors
Honors
Madison Rosemarie McCulley
Mason Cole McDaniel
Emma Margareta McDonald
Honors & Distinction
Megan Rose Lawrence
Rachel Elisabeth Ledbetter
Dustin Lynn Lee
Distinction
Honors & Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Honors
Logan Clyde Lowe
John Andrew Mathis
Jonathon Bryant Matthews
Distinction
Madison Emerald Lee
Stone Marcus McCoy Honors
Distinction
“To be your own person, you need good friends. Friends are the treasure of your life.” -Garrison Keillor
Congratulations Class of 2015 We Salute You!
Congratulations, You Did It. We salute the Class of 2015, and wish you all the best for a successful and happy future.
Abigail Griffin
Stone Memorial High School Wishing you all the success & Kelsey Scoville happiness that life University of Tennessee - Chattanooga has to offer.
HIGHLAND FEDERAL savings & loan association
Ethan Carey
Clarkrange High School
106 S. Main Street Crossville, TN 484-6178
Village Green Mall Fairfield Glade, TN 484-3612
We Are So Proud of our Seniors! Congrats Class of 2015!
Emily Begley SMHS
Haley Hembree CCHS
Blessing Newsome SMHS
NOT PICTURED Kenneth Trosclair Phoenix
BILBREY FUNERAL HOME Serving Crossville since 1914.
Angel Perry CCHS
Tierra Parrent SMHS
760 N. Main Crossville, TN 931-484-1771
76 E. Adams Street Crossville • 484-6119 www.bilbreyfh.com
6D • Class of 2015
Criston William McMillen
Miranda Jean McNeal
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Alyson Brooke McNulty
Matraca Diona Melton
Triston Robert Milke
Alexis Skyler Monday
James Edward Morgan II Distinction
Keith Austin Morgan
Mark Austin Morris
Alyson Ray Murphy
Ellane Faith Music
Haley Jo Music
Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Elijah Matthew Nash
Lucas Christopher Nastri
Tyler James Neely
Mylan Zane Netherton
Cody Ray Newcomb
Connor Aden Myers
Taylor Brooke Myers
Honors, Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Honors
Bo Dillon Newcome
June Blessing Newsome
A new spin on an age old question:
‘What do you want to be when you grow up?’ (BPT) - As kids get older, they’ll get asked many times what they want to be when they grow up. Common answers for the littlest kids tend to be a princess, a superhero or the job their mom or dad does. And it used to be that older children would respond with high-profile jobs like doctor, lawyer or teacher. However, the answers you’ll hear from kids today might surprise you. Today’s kids are immersed in technology from birth, making careers in these fields very attractive. It’s important for parents to have conversations with their kids about their interests, and their ideas of what a great future career might look like. These conversations can lead to jobshadowing opportunities, involvement in clubs or organizations that cater to their interests, and eventually the pursuit of a higher-education degree in the topic. Here are some ways parents can connect with their kids and talk about what they want to be when they grow up: 1. Take your son or
Help your children explore new careers with job shadowing, talking to others about their work and enjoying family game nights. daughter to work — Taking your child to your workplace environment is a great opportunity to introduce kids to what their parents do at work. You can show your kids everything you’re involved in, your workplace atmosphere and give them a better understanding of what happens when you’re away at the office. If this day
doesn’t work into your calendar, ask your company if there is another opportunity when you can show your kids what you do at work. 2. Play The Game of Life game- Classic games like Monopoly and The Game of Life serve as great vehicles to bring families together. The Game of Life has been a favorite Hasbro game
Congratulations to the Class of 2015
amongst kids for decades and today the game has introduced new Career Cards inspired by kids’ most wanted dream jobs. For families with kids ages 8 and older, parents can learn more about their child’s professional aspirations while playing the game. New Career Card options include more “modern choices” like sing-
er, secret agent, professional athlete, fashion designer, inventor, chef, race car driver, dancer, police officer, firefighter and video game designer. Use the game as a playful conversation-starter and learn more about what your kids admire most about a certain career like secret agent. Ask meaningful questions such as why are they drawn to one specific career option over another? The new career cards can help you talk with your kids about what people in those careers do. The conversation might spark an interest that you can help your kids pursue. 3. Expose them to many careers - It’s easy to show kids the opportunities they have for future careers through light-hearted conversations while out around your community. Ask your friends if your kids can interview them about what they do at work. Go out in the community and discuss all the different jobs you see people doing. Make it a fun field day to create a list of all those jobs. You can also discuss what kind of training
or schooling the people need for the jobs they’re doing. Don’t forget to point out the behind-the-scenes workers as well. For example, if you get lunch in a restaurant, there’s a good chance you don’t ever see the chef cooking the food. Don’t be surprised if your kids say they are interested in pursuing a career with a modern twist. Video game designer was kids’ top pick in the dream job survey conducted by Hasbro in preparation for its new The Game of Life Career Cards. However, traditional occupations like teacher and veterinarian are still popular choices among children. “What do you want to be when you grow up?” is not always easy to answer for kids. By finding ways to start the conversation with your kids and exposing them to the wide range of career choices is the first step to learning about their interests and passions. For more information on The Game of Life, follow Hasbro Gaming on Facebook. This advertisement is paid for by Hasbro.
Congratulations Class of 2015!
Summer Classes begin June 1 Fall Classes begin August 24
• Transfer Programs • Career Preparation Programs • Certificate Programs • Online Classes
Myla Morris Colton James Edwards Fortis, Pensacola, FL Spring City RN Graduate Hunter Withers Middle School Daughter of 8th Grade Graduate Homestead Elementary Eileen Morris School Son of David and 8th Grade Graduate Villa Edwards Son of John & Lori Withers Not Pictured:
Mary Ellen Staton Head Start Graduate Daughter of Brent and Heather Staton
Kellen Allen Burnett Stone Elementary School Kindergaten Graduate Son of Joey and Sheri Burnett
Cumberland County Center • 2567 Cook Road (931) 456-9880 • www.roanestate.edu Roane State Community College is a TBR and an AA/EEO Institution.
Plateau Pediatrics 3234 Miller Avenue, Crossville • 931-707-8700 (between Hwy. 127S and Dayton Ave.)
Class of 2015 • 7D
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Kaylee Nicole Nix
Madison Storri Olsen
Raleigh Taylor Orme
Tyler Ray Owens
Nicholas Lee Padgett
Tierra Kathleen Parrent
Kayla Nicole Parsons
Honors, Tennessee Scholar
Distinction
Jose Othon Perez
Renee Lorraine Pluff
Makayla Lynn Presley
Distinction
Distinction
Distinction
Sierra Kathleen Ray
Dakota Jacob Reagan
Taylor Marie Reagan
Ashley Morgan Pyles
Kyle Andrew Quince
Lando Lee Ramos
Rachel Lynn Raulerson Honors, Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Hayley S. Reed
Honors
Emily Marie Richards
Yan Ling Lu Riddle
Austin Lee Robertson
Distinction
Honors & Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Honors
Words of advice for the Class of 2015
Graduation season, an oft-emotional time of great celebration and reflection, is on the horizon. Though soon-to-be graduates are about to have one set of challenges firmly behind them, other important life decisions and experiences are looming in the not-toodistant future. Although there’s no magic set of rules for postgraduation, the following advice can help recent gradates transition from the classroom to the ceremony and then life after school. • Attend the graduation ceremony. Graduating students may debate
whether or not to attend their graduation ceremonies. Such ceremonies tend to be lengthy, and outdoor affairs can be hot and uncomfortable. However, graduation is a milestone moment that you won’t get to enjoy again. Attending graduation allows you one last academic experience, and even if that may seem like too meaningful right now, you might regret skipping the ceremony down the road. • Enjoy graduation but buckle down once the dust settles. According to a survey by the National Association of Colleges and
Employers, the job market for new graduates is improving marginally. But the Institute for College Access and Success notes that many college graduates will be saddled with around $25,000 in debt upon earning their degrees. Many student loans have a six-month repayment grace period after graduation, so new grads who don’t already have a job lined up may want to use some of that grace period to travel, visit distant relatives or relax and recharge before their first payment comes due. Use the time wisely, but be
prepared to buckle down when the time comes to start repaying loans. • Join an alumni association. Regardless of the size of your school, chances are strong they have a local alumni association and several chapters across the country. Take advantage of these organizations to connect with fellow alumni, who can be invaluable sources of information and provide connections that may help you find a job in your field. • Read and learn new skills. If you have yet to land that first job, use some of your down time
to reacquaint yourself with reading for pleasure instead of reading as part of an assignment. You also can use extra time to explore new skills, such as learning certain software or applications that may help you stand out in a competitive job market. • Before you decide what you want to do, you may have to figure out what you don’t like. Another way to use free time is to volunteer or apply for internships in fields you may want to work in. These experiences can help you determine your career options and find a career you find both
challenging and exciting. But such opportunities can also help you determine when a given line of work isn’t for you. Oftentimes, finding the right career path takes some trial and error. Don’t get too down if an opportunity doesn’t pan out. Instead, keep your head up and take advantage of the next opportunity that comes your way. Graduation is a time of mixed emotions. Graduates can not only use graduation season to make lasting memories with friends but also to take the first steps toward the next phase of their lives.
“All our dreams can come true...if we have the courage to pursue them.” - Walt Disney
Congratulations
CONGRATULATIONS
GRADUATES!
Best Wishes On A Successful Future!
We Are Proud Of Your Accomplishments And We Wish You All The Best!
Not Pictured DEREK REVIS Jackson County High School Son of Lisa Haney
ETHAN CUNNINGHAM CCHS Son of Kevin & Tiffany Cunningham
NOLAN LONG SMHS Son of Dennis Long
SYDNEY DELVERS BROOKE LYNN FOX Homestead Elementary University of Daughter of Tennessee Anna Fox & Tony Cox Daughter of (Graduating Laura Delvers Warner Kindergarten)
CADENCE PRICHETT Martin Elementary Granddaughter of Brenda Prichett and Daughter of Junior & Alex Prichett (Graduating Kindergarten) JOSEPH QUINN III SMHS Son of Heather Quinn NICOLE CASTLE Tennessee Tech University Daughter of Peggy Bowling (B.S. in Education)
BRITTANY CROSS SMHS Daughter of Gary & Janice Cross
CHASE NICHOLAS SAMUEL DeROSSETT KEYES SMHS Nephew of SMHS Son of Renia and Regina DeRossett Kenneth Keyes Jr.
COREY DON GARRISON SMHS Son of Heather & Tracie Smith
JACKSON WATTS Martin Elementary Son of Nicole Mullins (Graduating Kindergarten)
Jade Loden Rachel Raulerson Roane State Community SMHS College Daughter of Kim Raulerson Employee
Jacob Hunter Garrett CCHS Son of Tammy Begley
Nathaniel Freeman SMHS Grandson of Dee Abston
KLOE BROOKE DAVIS Smithville Elementary Granddaughter of Yvonne Gilbert AUSTYN EVERETT CCHS Nephew of Retta Debord
MADISON E. LEE SMHS Daughter of Jason Bynum
ADYSON ROSE GUY Brown Elementary Granddaughter of Nancy Guy
AMBER MURRAY CCHS Niece of Ronnie & Kathy Rector
RACHEL HOPE ELLIOTT Livingston Academy Daughter of Dana & Teresa Elliott
Ficosa North America CROSSVILLE, TENNESSEE
Andrew Parker Shields CCHS Son of Pamela Shields
Ali Harris SMHS Daughter of Jerry Harris
Tori Harris SMHS Daughter of Jerry Harris Crossville Main Office • 484-2551 Cumberland Square • 456-4110 Fairfield Glade • 456-4407 Lake Tansi Village • 788-3360
www.cumberlandcountybank.com
8D • Class of 2015
Blake Bradley Roberts
Tyler Wayne Roberts
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Dakota Scott Roysdon
Jacob Thomas Roysdon
Joseph Collin Russell
Honors, Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Haley Jane Santee
Jared Wayne Sargent
Corey Micheal Sebastian
Kendra Marie Sharp
Kayli Allison Sherrill
Bailey Joyce Rutledge Honors, Distinction
Merideth Margaret Rutledge
Shelby Maxine Sherrill
Allison Leahann Shipley
Honors
Reading outside of school important for tweens (BPT) - Reading is a fundamental skill people use throughout their lives, and in this digital age reading is more important than ever. When children and tweens read, they improve their reading skills and they also improve their comprehension, knowledge base, concentration and vocabulary. Many children love books, but getting those children to continue to read as tweens can be more difficult. As a parent, you cannot afford to let your tween’s reading fall by the wayside or trust that the reading they do at school is sufficient. Supplemental reading at home will help your child do better at school and in real world after graduation, too. To encourage their reading outside the classroom, follow these suggestions. • Keep it positive. Encourage your tween to read without pressuring, nagging or bribing them. Tweens should read for enjoyment, not because they feel forced or stand to profit financially from doing so. You should also avoid criticizing what they read. Even reading a gossip, music or video game magazine is better than not reading at all. • Set an example. Want your tweens to take an interest in reading? Then read yourself. If your tweens see that you make a habit of reading and enjoy doing it, they’ll be more apt to pick up supplemental reading on their own. • Find a story that interests them. Looking for a unique story that will interest your tween? Broken by Tanille Edwards is the love story of Milan, a highschool girl with a burgeoning modeling career. She’s also deaf and struggling with the same insecurities many tweens and teens face. This book is geared toward young adults, making it easy for them to tackle. The book also comes with its own musical soundtrack, allowing your child to enjoy the music as they turn the pages. • Start a book club. Join your tween in what they are reading. Ask them to pick a book you will both read together and then discuss at the end of the month. This will help keep both of you on task and provide a great way to share mutual interests. • Stress reading’s other benefits. Reading offers numerous benefits to your child beyond the purely academic, so make sure they are aware of them. Reading a book also grows their imagination, spurs creativ-
Students Not Pictured Johnathan Richard Amann Thomas Levi Brady Britteny Marie Contreras Honors, Distinction
Shelby May Cook Zachary Charles Davenport Daphne Inish Dickens
Abigail Brook Gibson Honors, Distinction
Hunter Cain Holderman Sara Elizabeth McDonald Joseph Lee Phillips Joseph John Quinn III Honors
Ryan Joseph Watts
Congratulations Class Of 2015
and a Special Salute to our Graduates!
Seth McCloud CCHS
Isabella Staggs CCHS
Genesis Square Shopping Center 484-1094
It’s important to continue encouraging kids to read as they enter the tween years. Set an example of reading, stay positive and find age-appropriate books that will interest your tween reader. ity, entertains and provides a cost-effective way to kick back and relax after a long day of school. The more your child sees reading as a reward, the more apt they will be to do it in their spare time. Between friends, technology and school, there are plenty of forces vying for
your teen’s attention; make sure supplemental reading is one of them. Encouraging your tween to read in their free time, as well as at school, offers them with a wonderful hobby today and lifelong benefits down the road. To learn more about the book Broken, visit Brokenthenovel.com.
Congratulations to the
Class of 2015!
From Dr. Calley Jo Perry at
Family Dentistry Group of Cookeville. 694 South Willow Avenue Cookeville, TN 931-528-5491
ROADRUNNER MOTORS 228 North Main St., Crossville • 931-456-4466
YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE
Congratulations to the entire class of 2015 and best wishes for all of your future endeavors!
Makenna Sherrill Kindergarten, North Cumberland Elementary Parents are Josh & Miranda Sherrill
Class of 2015 • 9D
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Emelia Erin Smid
Courtney Danielle Smith
Dakota Lee Ray Smith
Ronald Taylor Smith
Steven Bradley Smith
Timothy Andrew Smith
Brandon Gage Spence
Honors, Distinction
Joshua Glenn Spencer
Brandon Lee Stedam
Andrew Blake Swaw
Brandon James Dale Thomas
Honors
David Andrew Lee Stephens
Nickolas Dwane Stoner
Dillon Robert Thurman
Hannah Shaye Isabel Timson
Bailey Jean Strait
Marla Leeann Strickland
Brett Leeann Suggs
Samuel Ean Tollett
Mackenzie Nichole True
Distinction
Honors
Amber Dawn Tollett
Distinction
Honors, Distinction, Tennessee Scholar
Giving education the ‘Old College Try’ — again (BPT) - Returning to school later in life is a decision that requires careful thinking. As an adult, you must consider many factors before signing up for a second - or first round of post-secondary education. Many students who chose to go straight to college in their late teens or even early 20s had fewer responsibilities at the time, but as an adult you may
have a family, a full-time job or even student loan debt from your previous degree to consider. If you are uncertain of whether to make the commitment, you are not alone. As you weigh the benefits of returning to school against the challenges and costs, keep these points in mind:
Clearly outline
your goals Identifying why you want to go back to school is the first step. Do you feel like you’re stuck in a rut and want to further your abilities in your current role? Do you want to switch careers entirely? Or do you want to finish that degree that you started years ago? Pinpointing your impetus will allow you to clearly
state your objective and decide on a program that is right for you. In 2013, bachelor’s degree holders receive $1,108 as a median weekly wage for fulltime employment while those workers who hold only a high school diploma received $651 as a median weekly wage for full-time employment, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Advanced
degrees may yield even greater financial benefits, with master’s degree holders earning up to $221 per week more than those with bachelor’s degrees, according to the BLS data.
Give it a test run Knowing what you’ve signed up for is crucial to being comfortable with your decision. Reduce uncertainty by going for
a trial run. Easing back into an educational setting may take some getting used to, so if you are still unsure whether going back to school is right for you look for a trial program. Western International University (West), for example, allows prospective students to take their first class without having to See again page 10D
“Education is the key to unlocking the world, a passport to freedom.” - Oprah Winfrey Congratulations To All Our Seniors! May God bless you in your future endeavors. Love to all from your Saint Alphonsus Family
Class of 2015
Best Wishes To The Class of 2015!
Robert Claflin
Casey Clark
Peter Minneci
Katlyn Peterson
CCHS
CCHS
CCHS
SMHS
St. Alphonsus Catholic Church 151 St. Alphonsus Way • Crossville, TN 38555 • 931-484-2358
Merideth Rutledge Stone Memorial High School Daughter of Mishelle Rutledge
Bailey Rutledge Stone Memorial High School Daughter of Mishelle Rutledge
Christian Dick Cumberland County High School Son of Shane Dick and Vetta Dick Michaela Wells Stone Memorial High School Daughter of Michael Wells
Rachel Davis TCAT Daughter of Mark Davis
1383 Industrial Blvd Crossville, TN 38555 (931) 484-5163
10D • Class of 2015
Austin Lee Varney
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Nathan Dakota Varney
Christina Lynn Vogt
Emily Catherine Wagner Honors
James Nathanael Wattenbarger
Lillian Kathryn Welch
Michaela Carrie Wells
Tyler Richard M Wyatt
Jeffery Levi York
Tennessee Scholar
Zachary Joseph Williams
Ashley Anne Wilson
Elyjah John Worthham
Honors
Honors
Honors
AGAIN
• Continued from 9D commit themselves to an entire program. If you like the class, you can move forward with the program and pay $200 for that first three-credit class. If you decide that the timing isn’t right or the program isn’t for you, you can walk away without any financial obligation.
Analyze the costs and benefits Cost always plays a part in the decision-making process. Investing in your education is exactly that: an investment. To assess whether the investment is a worthy one, consider the average salary of the career you are contemplating and how much you will gain from returning to school. Compare this number to the cost of the education, and be sure to account for tuition, fees and textbooks.
Consider your schedule Between your current job and your family commitments, it is important to consider where school will fit into the equation. Schools like West are built specifically for working adults, so you can rest easily knowing that the learning process is designed to
fit into your busy schedule. “Earning a degree is a huge time commitment, but it can be attainable if you approach it with the right structure for optimal learning,” said Tracy Lorenz, President of Western International University. Following a pattern of “Learn, Practice, Apply,” students are able to watch a series of 10-minute video lectures every week, practice with quizzes and exercises, engage online with instructors and fellow students, and apply their knowledge to real-world situations through weekly assignments. It is beneficial, too, to seek out professors who are also practitioners. They will be better equipped to give students advice for the modern-day work environment. Because all the course material is available online, you can complete your weekly coursework and “go to school” when you have time throughout the week. While this is a significant benefit to working adults, it is still important that you carve out time to dedicate to your education before you make the commitment. You want to ensure that you are able to put in adequate time in order to gain everything that you want to achieve from your education.
Rebecca Lynn Wright
Elijah Craig Wyatt
Tips for landing your first job Though the job market for newly minted college graduates has proven less than ideal in recent years, members of the Class of 2015 entered a job market that was on the rebound. According to the “Job Outlook 2014” survey from the National Association of Colleges and Employers, employers anticipated hiring nearly 8 percent more 2014 graduates for their domestic operations than they hired from the class of 2013. That’s good news for new grads, but members of the Class of 2015 should still expect a competitive job market in which companies can afford to be patient as they attempt to find the best possible candidate for each opening. Oftentimes the best candidate, especially for entry-level positions, is the one who combines some experience with a willingness to learn and do whatever it takes to help a company succeed. Many candidates boast such experience and enthusiasm, but there are some additional steps new graduates can take to improve their chances of landing their first jobs out of college. • Gain some relevant experience. While college
is the best time to gain some experience that’s relevant to your field, that does not mean you can’t still earn an internship now that you have donned your cap and gown and received your diploma. Many businesses look to recent graduates to fill their internships, as recent grads have years of study under their belts and, because they are no longer enrolled in classes, more flexibility than current students. If the job market in your chosen field is tepid, start looking for internships. These can be a great way to start making some professional contacts, and many people find themselves ultimately working full-time for the company where they first landed an internship. • Establish an online presence. Another way for recent graduates to get noticed is to establish a positive online presence. Something as simple as creating a profile on the professional networking site LinkedIn can help recent graduates get noticed by prospective employers. Even if you have little or no relevant professional experience, create a profile that includes your education history, interests, accolades or awards you
earned while in school and even a brief summary of your career goals. Another way to establish an online presence is to begin a blog. The blog should not be used as a tool to discuss your personal life, but rather to express your thoughts on topics relevant to the career you hope to pursue. Demonstrating an understanding or even just a passion for the industry can be a great way to show prospective employers that you are looking for a career and not just a job. • Join a professional organization. Other options to network and improve your chances of landing your first job can be attained by joining a professional organization. Many such organizations welcome new members, even those with relatively little or even no professional experience. Your university may even sponsor such an organization and host regularly scheduled forums relevant to your industry. Such forums often feature lectures or talk sessions with already established professionals who can provide advice on landing a first job or internship or furnish grads with industry contacts who might offer sim-
ilar help. Memberships in such organizations is often free or inexpensive, so take advantage of this opportunity if it presents itself. • Use the resources at your disposal. Many college graduates are unaware that they have valuable resources at their disposal that can greatly increase their chances of securing a job out of college. The career services office at the university is an invaluable resource that is plugged into the business community in its town or city. Such an office can connect you will fellow alumni, many of whom want to help their fellow graduates establish their careers. A career services office also can help new graduates fine tune their resumes and cover letters so they have a greater chance of landing a job. Parents also might be a great resource in your job hunt. Your parents may have a career’s worth of professional contacts who might be able to help you land a job. Don’t be hesitant to ask your parents for help. Getting a first job out of college is rarely easy. But there are some strategies motivated grads can employ to greatly increase their chances of finding a job and starting their careers.
“Now go, and make interesting mistakes, make amazing mistakes, make glorious and fantastic mistakes. Break rules. Leave the world more interesting for your being here. Make good art.” - Neil Gaiman CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2015! 15
Andrew Swaw Stone Memorial High School
Emily Smid Stone Memorial High School
Karysa Mazur Cumberland County High School
John Farley Stone Memorial High School
“You’ll find low prices & service with a smile.”
Mashalya Underwood
Jana Lack
Kelsey Flores
CCHS Daughter of Donald Underwood
SMHS Daughter of Janie Lack
SMHS Son of Francisco Flores
Justin McElroy Cumberland County High School
Madison Olsen Stone Memorial High School
265 Highland Square Crossville 931-456-7646
Ryan Burgess CCHS Son of Ernest Burgess
NOT PICTURED Taylor Cravens
Alvin C. York Agriculture Institute Son of Ritchie Cravens
Morgan Richards CCHS Grandson of James Alderman
DURABLE PRODUCTS, INC. P.O. Box 826 • Crossville, TN 38557
Class of 2015 • 11D
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Phoenix School
John Ashburn
Shawn Ansell
Emilee Aytes
William Beasley
Tabitha Bice
Christian Brock
Preston Clark
Corey Cook
Katie Davenport
Brandon Dery
Victoria Elmore
Shane Farr
Michelle Fernandez
John Chris Ford
Tim Fowler
Devon Frazier
Nick Godsey
Megan Gorman
Mattea Hayes
Will Hayes
Students Not Pictured Marla Bartolome Shaunda Broeckel Kyle Cope William James Martin Chris Merrill
David Hendrickson
Jeremy Dade Jackson
Jonie Janow
Amelia Kerley
Hannah MacLean
“Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition.” - Steve Jobs
Phoenix School Graduation • May 13 • 6 p.m • SMHS Auditorium
We Are So Proud of our Grads!!
AN D BES T W IS HES TO THE EN TIRE CLAS S O F 2015!
Cody Newcomb Katelyn Davis Stone Memorial High School
2015
Cumberland County High School
SINCE 1953
201 5
www.shaddentire.com 584 S. MAIN • 931-484-6043 2328 N. MAIN • 931-484-6107
MON - FRI 8AM - 5PM
Kesnei Shea Campbell SMHS
Emelia Erin Smid SMHS
TENNESSEE PLATEAU ONCOLOGY Dirk C. Davidson, MD
Board Certified in Medical Oncology Board Certified in Internal Medicine
Rebekah S. Hillis, APN, FNP-BC, AOCNP 49 Cleveland Street Suite 270, Crossville
931-484-7596 | After Hours Call 931-484-9511
12D • Class of 2015
Matt Miller
Brandon Mitchell
Sophie Roberts
Justin Traxler
Tirzah Roberts
Nick Turner
www.crossville-chronicle.com • Friday, May 8, 2014
Austin Noll
Ashley Pellot
Michaela Scheffler-Lewis
Trent Voelker
Ashlei Phelps
ChiAnna Sherrill
Dominic Wade-Malacara
Matt Rizor
Charles Smith
Carolyn Williams
Randall Tyler Roberts
LaMesha Taylor
Dalton Woody
Will Woody
Tips for choosing the right major As recent college graduates can no doubt attest, the job market for young people can be difficult to navigate. Many recent graduates are still struggling to find fulltime employment, and some might be wondering if they chose the right major. Though choosing a major is about more than just finding a job, the financial burden of earning a college degree can’t be ignored. According to the Project on Student Debt, 71 percent of college seniors who graduated in 2012 had student loan debt, with an average of $29,400 per borrower. In fact, between 2008 and 2012, the average student loan debt at graduation increased an average of 6 percent each year. So
while the right major should incorporate a student’s interests, skills and strengths, it’s also important to find a major that can help students earn a living after they walk across the stage and receive their diplomas. The following are a handful of tips college students can employ to ensure they choose the right major. * Don’t jump into it. Some students might want to pick a major before they ever step foot on campus. While that strategy might work for some, it should only be employed by those students who are wholly certain a major is for them. Some students choose a major early on because they feel they may get a head start at navigating their way
through a job market that recently endured exceptionally high levels of unemployment. But the pressure of finding a job should not be what drives students when choosing a major. Unless you’re entirely certain that a particular course of study is for you, give yourself some leeway and wait to choose a major. The first year or two of college is a great time to expand your academic horizons so use that time to your advantage. * Don’t procrastinate. While rushing into a major is a mistake, it’s also foolish to procrastinate with regard to choosing a course of study. According to The College Board’s annual survey of colleges, the average tuition and fees at private
nonprofit four-year colleges for the 2013-14 school year was $30,094, while public four-year in-state tuition and fees averaged slightly less than $9,000 for the same year. So no matter which type of college or university a student enrolls in, he or she will be making a significant financial commitment. Waiting too long to choose a course of study may find you paying for courses you ultimately won’t need, increasing your already expensive tuition along the way. * Use the resources at your disposal. Students undecided about a college major should make use of their schools’ career development departments to help them get on the right path.
Many such departments provide assessment tools to help students find a major that synthesizes their interests and skills with a field of study. In addition, the personnel within career development departments have dealt with hundreds, if not thousands, of previous students who found themselves in similar situations, and that experience can prove invaluable to students who might feel lost with regard to choosing majors. * Know the requirements if you have a specific career in mind. While many majors are not difficult to navigate, some fields of study have strict guidelines that students should be aware of almost immediately. For example, students
hoping to attend medical school after graduation need to determine which courses they absolutely must take in order to qualify for medical school. In addition, students with such specific plans in mind often must choose their majors as early as possible so they can plan their curriculum in accordance with the standards they will need to meet to be considered for postgraduate work. Choosing a major is a decision college students should not take lightly. But students who are unsure of what they want to study should approach the process of choosing a major with patience and an eye on finding a course of study that matches their interests with their skills.
“Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” - Dr. Seuss
Congratulations and Best Wishes to the Class of 2015 We extend a Special Salute to...
WAY TO GO!
CON GR ATU LATION S TO TH E
CLASS OF 2015 !
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Zachary Williams
Brianna Williams
Elijah David York
Stone Memorial High School Son of Jeffery & Elizabeth (Liz) Williams
Stone Elementary Daughter of Jeffery & Elizabeth (Liz) Williams
Homested Elementary Son of Elizabeth York Grandson of Becky Phipps (Graduating Kindergarten)
Jacob Barringer Stone Memorial High School Chronicle Employee
Alexis Bowman
Samantha Paige Carter White County High School Granddaugther of Sue Carter
Brandon Thomas
North Cumberland Elementary Daughter of Kristin & David Bowman
Stone Memorial High School Nephew of Jimmy Burks
Dallas Wyatt Strader
Grayson Bryant O’Neal
Rockwood High School Nephew of Darrell & Amanda Strader
South Elementary Grandson of Rebecca Ford (Graduating Kindergarten)
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