Congratulations To the Class of - 2025
Congratulations
To the Class of 2025
The Class of 2025 is getting ready to enter a new chapter in life, as they turn their tassels and graduate from their respective high schools. In preparation for graduation, the schools have named their 2025 valedictorians and salutatorians.
Tulsi Patel is the Montgomery County High School Class of 2025 Valedictorian. She is the daughter of Nima and Kenny Patel. Patel has attended Montgomery County Schools for 14 years and has been successful in both academics and athletics, as she was named the school’s STAR Student, and was named 1st Team All Region and Best Offensive Player in soccer, placed 2nd in the re- continued from page
gion in cross country, and participated on the school’s track team.
“I am extremely blessed and very grateful for this honor,” Patel emphasized. “Thank you to God and my family for helping me along the way.”
When asked if she had any advice for underclassmen, Patel shared, “Set goals for yourself and don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed.”
Yarizbeth Ortiz is the class’s salutatorian. She is the daughter of Miguel Ortiz and Noemi Serrano, and has attended Montgomery County High School for her entire high school career. In addition to excelling in academics, Ortiz also has been successful in her athletic career, earning 5th place at the regional cross country meet, being named the Regional Positive Athlete Award winner for cross country, and being awarded 2nd Team – All Region honors in soccer.
Ortiz emphasized her gratitude to earn the title of salutatorian, as she credited her faith for helping her throughout high school. “I thank God for giving me the wisdom to make it through every exam,” she remarked.
When asked if she had any advice for underclassmen, Ortiz said, “Don’t let a bad grade discourage you, keep studying and try out new sports or activities. The years fly by quicker than you expect.”
The Montgomery County High School Class of 2025 Eagles will officially become alumni during the commencement ceremony at Brogdon Field at 8 p.m. on Friday, May 23.
Robert Toombs Christian Academy Kylie Acosta is the Robert Toombs Christian Academy Class of 2025 Valedictorian, and Maddie Joyner is the class’s salutatorian.
Acosta, daughter of Frances and Brick Acosta, has attended Robert Toombs Christian Academy for the entirety of her academic career, and has earned many awards and recognitions in the process.
She has excelled in the classroom, having earned honor roll and having the highest overall average for her grade during her freshman, sophomore, and junior years, and even was named to the headmaster’s list her senior year for having an average higher than 95. She is a recipient of the Georgia Certificate of Merit, served as a junior usher for graduation last year, and has received the Academic Athlete Award.
Acosta has been extremely active in the school’s clubs, as she has been a member of the Leo Club – in which she served as the club’s vice president during her junior and senior years – and the Senior Beta Club throughout the entirety of her high school experience. She has also actively participated in the Student Government Association, serving as a class representative during her sophomore and junior years, and leading as the Student Government Association President during her senior year. Acosta has been a member of the National Honors Society since 10th grade, and has been active in the school’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) chapter, serving as a huddle leader.
She has also been very successful in athletics, as she participated in spirit cheerleading all four years of high school and even served as the squad’s captain this year, and was on the school’s first ever state champion competitive cheerleading team. Acosta received the Best Teammate award for competitive cheer and was named to the competitive cheerleading all-state team three times. She is a member of the two-time state basketball champion team and a four-time region basketball champion team, and was named to the All-Region basketball team twice. Acosta is also a member of the four-time region championship and two-time state runner-up track and field team, and earned two individual state championships and a state runnerup finish in the girls triple jump. She also participated in soccer for three years – earning all-region honors, the Baby Boot Award, and the Truck Award – and played tennis for two years.
In addition to these accolades, Acosta also was the school’s homecoming and prom princess during her junior year, and participated in the Meadows Health Youth Advisory Board, Greater Vidalia Chamber Youth Leadership, and Duke Summer High School Medicine and Healthcare Programs. She is a member of Connection Church in Vidalia and a coach at the Vidalia Gymnastics Center.
“I’m so thankful and grateful for the opportunities I’ve had leading up to receiving this honor,” Acosta remarked, as she emphasized her gratitude for her coaches that have helped her to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
When asked if she had any advice for underclassmen, Acosta commented, “Don’t be in such a rush to grow up. Enjoy campus life and interact with the underclassmen. Make an effort to be a good example for them!”
Maddie Joyner, daughter of Jeremy and Amber Joyner, is the class’s salutatorian. Joyner has also attended RTCA for the entirety of her academic experience and has earned many accolades and awards during her time there.
She has served as the school’s Leo Club President, FCA Huddle Leader, Senior Beta Club Vice President, Student Government Association Secretary, a Junior Marshall in the Class of 2024 graduation, and STAR Student. She received the Georgia Certificate of Merit and is a member of the school’s National Honor Society.
Joyner also excelled in athletics, as she was on the 2023 Softball State Championship team and received All-Region softball honors twice. She also was a member of the two-time state champion basketball team, received all-region soccer honors twice, and was named to the 2025 All-Star soccer team. In addition to this, Joyner was named the RTCA 2025 Christian Athlete of the Year.
“I’m truly grateful that all of the long days, hard work, and determination are being honored in this way,” she remarked. “Thank you to my parents, teachers, and the Lord for giving me the ability to receive this honor.”
When asked if she had any advice for underclassmen, Joyner referenced Galatians 1:10, which says, “Your life is not defined by the approval of others. But of God. Live for an audience of one.”
The Robert Toombs Christian Academy Class of 2025 Crusaders graduated on Monday, May 19, at McLendon Field. Toombs County High School Shivani Patel is the Toombs County High School Class of 2025 Valedictorian, and Stephanie Eduardo-Ramos is the class’s salutatorian.
Patel is the daughter of Dharmistha and Deven Patel. She has attended Toombs County Schools since the 4th grade and has been highly active in clubs and activities at the school.
She is a member of the school’s Future Farmers of America (FFA), Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Technology Student Association (TSA), Beta Club, and National Society of High School Scholars. She has received a Greenhand FFA Degree, Highest Average in Chemistry award, Highest Average in AP US Government & Politics award, TSA Student of the Month award, Highest Average in Advanced Algebra, the East Georgia State College L.E.A.D. the Way award, the Georgia Certificate of Merit, and the Southeastern Technical College Dual Enrollment Award.
Patel has earned Principal’s Honor Roll the entirety of her high school career. She also completed a business pathway and became a Microsoft Office Specialist – Associate from passing the Word 2019, Excel 2019, and PowerPoint 2019 assessments.
Patel has received the Emanuel Stovall Scholarship and the Georgia Southern University Presidential Scholarship.
“It’s truly an incredible honor to be named valedictorian. Receiving the honor of being valedictorian is incredibly humbling and meaningful to me. It’s a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and selfmotivation I had throughout my high school years, but it’s also a reflection of the support I’ve received from my teachers, family, and friends throughout this journey,” she shared. “I wouldn’t be here today without the support of my family as they are the reason I pushed myself to work hard and to get good grades. In all honesty, walking into high school, my mind never went to trying to become valedictorian or salutatorian, I mainly focused on getting good grades for myself, but once I found out that I was valedictorian at the time being my junior year, I decided that I would work harder and actually try to keep being valedictorian. Once I found out that I was officially valedictorian of my class, I couldn’t be prouder of myself. I’m deeply grateful for this recognition, and I hope to use this opportunity to represent my classmates with pride and gratitude as we all look forward to the next chapter in our lives.”
Patel continued, “I would like to thank Mrs. Michelle Branham, Ms. Megan Morris, Mrs. Dana Manning, Mrs. Heather Moore, Ms. Jessica Jones, and Mr. Jess Bush [for helping me throughout high school]. I would also like to thank my parents.”
When asked if she had any advice for underclassmen, Patel said, “Take ownership of your time and growth. High school goes by faster than you expect, and the habits you build now will shape your future. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone— whether it’s joining a new club, speaking up in class, or simply asking for help when you need it. Those small steps often lead to the most meaningful growth. I would also say take advantage of every opportunity you get because you don’t know when the next one like the one you gave up will be. I honestly wish I could have been more involved in clubs and activities to get the experience from my freshman year like I did my senior year.”
She added, “Also, remember that your path doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. Success isn’t one-size-fits-all, so give yourself permission to explore and figure out what matters most to you. Be kind to others, but just as importantly, be kind to yourself. Your life will be better if you look at everything with positivity – it will make you happier and make you feel more accomplished. You’ve got more potential than you realize— believe in it.”
Stephanie Eduardo-Ramos, daughter of Maria Ramos and Silvestre Eduardo, is the class’s salutatorian. She attended Toombs County Schools her entire academic experience.
Ramos is a member of the Beta Club, 4-H, Technology Student Association (TSA), Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Future Farmers of America (FFA), Memorial Health Meadows Hospital Youth Advisory Board, and Memorial Health Meadows Hospital Volunteen Program. She has earned Principal’s Honors Roll all four years, Top Ten Class of 2025, Georgia Certificate of Merit, L.E.A.D. the Way Award, Highest Average in Enhanced Advanced Algebra/ AP Pre-Calculus, Certificate of Achievement in Engineering, Career Skills Certificate in Agricultural Science I, Certificate of Achievement in Veterinary Science, 4-H Senior Project Achievement Award, Chapter FFA Degree, and a College Essentials Certificate from Southeastern Technical College.
She has been awarded the Goel Scholarship and Presidential Scholarship from Georgia Southern University.
“It’s truly an honor to be named salutatorian. I feel incredibly grateful and proud—not just for the recognition itself, but for everything it represents: the hard work, the late nights, and the support I’ve received from my teachers, family, and friends. This achievement isn’t mine alone; it reflects the encouragement and belief others have had in me throughout my academic continued from page
journey. I’m excited to celebrate this moment and to continue striving for excellence in the future,” she shared about the accomplishment.
Ramos added, “I would like to give thanks to my family who have constantly been supporting me through this whole journey. I am also thankful to Mrs. Michelle Branham, Ms. Megan Morris, Ms. Jessica Jones, and Mr. Jess Bush for being amazing teachers. These teachers have supported me through both academic and emotional challenges, offering encouragement during difficult times and celebrating my successes alongside me.”
When asked if she had any advice for underclassmen, Ramos remarked, “My advice to underclassmen is to get involved— join clubs, programs, and boards like the ones offered by Memorial Health Meadows Hospital. These experiences can help you grow, meet new people, and discover what you’re passionate about. Also, dedicate time to your math work. It might be tough, but putting in the effort now will pay off later. Don’t forget to enjoy high school too— hang out with your friends, grab food together, wander around Walmart, or spend time at Partin Park. Make memories. Most importantly, be proud of who you are and what you achieve. Believe in your abilities, don’t give up on yourself, and never let doubt hold you back. Treasure your family and spend quality time with them while you can—they’re your biggest supporters. These years go by fast, so make the most of them.”
Patel, Ramos, and the rest of the Toombs County High School Class of 2025 officially turned their tassels on Saturday, May 17, at the Pit.
Vidalia Heritage Academy Anna Hudson Hamilton is the Vidalia Heritage Academy Class of 2025 Valedictorian and Luke Moxley is the class’s Salutatorian.
Hamilton is the daughter of Dr. Stewart and Joni Hamilton. She has attended Vidalia Heritage Academy for her entire academic career, and has earned both academic and athletic honors, as she received the Daughters of American Revolution (DAR) Award at the school and was named an All-Region and Senior All-Star soccer player.
“It has been an incredible honor to receive the title of Valedictorian, and I am truly grateful for this recognition. I have worked hard to reach this goal ever since I was in the 5th grade. Academics mean a lot to me because I know many people don’t have the opportunity to get the education we are granted in the United States,” Hamilton said. “First, I would like to thank Jesus for giving me my amazing parents who raised me up knowing the truth of the Bible. Secondly, I would like to thank my school, principal, and teachers for always pushing me to be the best version of myself.”
When asked if she had any advice for underclassmen, Hamilton replied, “Time flies. Don’t take anything for granted. And make others feel loved and included any time you can.”
Luke Moxley, son of Sean and Alisha Moxley, is the Vidalia Heritage Academy Class of 2025 Salutatorian. He has attended the school for 10 years and has excelled in both academics and athletics, as he was a member of the three-time baseball state champion team and football state champion team. He also received all-state baseball honors twice during high school and was even named to the all-state baseball team.
“I’m very blessed,” Moxley commented about being salutatorian. “I want to thank my parents – I wouldn’t be in this position without them.”
When asked if he had any advice for underclassmen, Moxley remarked, “Never take the safe routes. Hard work will be rewarded.”
The Vidalia Heritage Academy Class of 2025 Eagles will officially turn their tassels during a commencement ceremony at 9 a.m. on Saturday, May 24, at the First Baptist Church of Vidalia.
Vidalia High School
Georgia Meredith and Jude Collins are the top two students academically within the Vidalia High School Class of 2025, as Meredith is the class’s Valedictorian and Collins is the class’s salutatorian.
Meredith is the daughter of Susanna and Gray Meredith, and has attended Vidalia High School for her entire high school experience. During that time, she has received several accolades, such as DAR Good Citizen Award for her school and the region, Meadows Auxiliary Volunteer Scholarship, Patricia Frist Memorial Scholarship, BA Lancaster Scholarship, National Rural and Small Town National Recognition Award, Student Government Association Scholarship, and AP Scholar Award.
She has been involved in various clubs at the school and community, and has served in leadership roles in several of them. Her clubs and leadership positions have included Beta Club President and Vice President, Student Government Association Class President and Executive President; Memorial Health Meadows Hospital Volunteen Program, Memorial Health Meadows Hospital Youth Advisory Board, People’s Bank Student Board of Directors, and Greater Vidalia Youth Leadership Class.
Meredith has also excelled in athletics, as she led her fellow classmates and underclassmen as the Varsity Track and Cross Country captain. She received all-state honors for cross country, and holds the school’s record for cross country 5k, track 3200m relay, and 4x800m relay. She has been named the Altamaha Area Runner of the Year for 4 years, and was even a member of the 2025 Class 1A-1 Georgia State Track and Field Champion Team. Meredith combined her love of running and passion for working in the community in 2021, when she founded the Little Feathers Running Club, which has helped to foster a love of running in elementary school students ever since.
“It has been a goal since before I started high school, and I feel relieved and honored. My parents were both Valedictorians at VHS, so it is super special for me to be a part of this family tradition,” she emphasized. “I would like to thank my parents, grandparents, teachers, coaches and mentors — especially Coach Mandy Godbee and Mrs. Amanda Mosley, who both helped me with Little Feathers running club and spent extra time and energy guiding me through high school, placing me on the right path for me.”
When asked if she had any advice for underclassmen, Meredith responded, “My advice would be to make the most of the opportunities our small community offers like the volunteen program at the hospital and look for ways to get involved in your school and community. I love my hometown and appreciate everyone who took time to teach, coach, and raise me.”
Jude Collins, son of Jimmy and Deirdre Collins, is the class’s salutatorian. Collins has attended Vidalia High School all four years of high school, and is a member of the school’s Beta Club, National Honor Society, and Soccer team. He received the STAR Student Award for the school and has competed in skateboarding competitions throughout high school.
“I am grateful to be the salutatorian of my class. My classmates and teachers have helped push me to do my best,” he emphasized. “I would like to thank my parents and all of my teachers at Vidalia High School.”
When asked if he has any advice for underclassmen, Collins remarked, “Use your unique talents and do something you love. Always find joy in the journey.”
The Vidalia High School Class of 2025 will graduate at 8 p.m. on Buck Cravey Field on Friday, May 23. Wheeler County High School Maryee-Grace Selph is the Wheeler County Class of 2025 Valedictorian, and Layne Gibbs is the class’s Salutatorian.
Selph is the daughter of Kory and Crissy Smith and Ernest and Misty Selph. She has attended Wheeler County Schools since prekindergarten.
She has been very active in school and community clubs and organizations, having participated in FBLA, FCA, and the Meadows Health Youth Advisory Board. She has served as the Beta Club president and FFA vice president. Selph has competed in blueprint reading through the SkillsUSA organization, and earned 2nd and 3rd place in these competitions.
Selph participated on the school’s basketball team – through which she received a coach’s award, 2nd team all-region honors, and all-academic team honors – as well as golf and cheerleading.
She has excelled in academics, as she has been the top of her class since 2nd grade. Selph won first place in the RESA writing competition and has competed in the RESA math competitions. She has received honor roll with distinction throughout her academic career.
“To receive this award, it feels surreal. I would like to thank my teachers and parents for helping me to succeed,” Selph remarked. “My advice to underclassmen would to be to make the most of your time in high school because it really will fly by.”
Layne Gibbs, daughter of Dwayne and Jessie Gibbs, is the Wheeler County Class of 2025 Salutatorian. He has attended Wheeler County High School for 3.5 years.
Gibbs is a member of the school’s Beta Club and was previously recognized as the school’s STAR Student. He has been named to the school’s honor roll with distinction for the entire time that he has attended there.
“It feels great to receive this honor!” elated Gibbs. “I want to thank God, my parents, and my teachers!”
When asked if he had any advice for underclassmen, Gibbs commented, “Keep God first and He will provide.”
The Wheeler County High School Class of 2025 Bulldogs will turn their tassels at a commencement ceremony at 8 p.m. on Friday, May 23, at the Wheeler County High School Football Field.
VHS Salutatorian Jude Collins
MCHS Valedictorian Tulsi Patel
MCHS Salutatorian Yarizbeth Ortiz
WCHS ValedictorianMaryee Grace Selph
WCHS Salutatorian Layne Gibbs
VHA Valedictorian Anna Hamilton
VHA Salutatorian Luke Moxley
RTCA Valedictorian Kylie Acosta
RTCA Salutatorian Madalyn Joyner
TCHS Valedictorian Shivani Patel
TCHS Salutatorian Stephanie Eduardo-Ramos
Treutlen ValedictorianJackson Heath
Treutlen SalutatorianCarly Braddy
