continued from page collected many ….
continued from page
collected many accolades, such as serving as a Georgia Future Farmers of America (FFA) State Vice President and being a member of the 2025-2026 Greater Vidalia Youth Leadership Program, National Beta Club, Montgomery County 4-H Club, and Montgomery County High School Student Council. He has received many awards, with his top honors being the Montgomery County Student Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) Student, University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Rural Scholar, and National FFA Specialty Animal Production Proficiency National Finalist and Georgia State Winner, and receiving the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture Scholarship.
“It honestly feels surreal to be named Valedictorian. I am so honored and grateful to be placed in this position because I know that the work of not only myself, but also those who have supported me, has paid off,” Hardeman emphasized. “First and foremost, I would like to thank God for putting me in this position. I owe everything that I have to Him and am so grateful for the other amazing people in my life. I would also like to thank my parents for always being there for me and serving as my biggest role models. Without their guidance, I would not be where I am today. I would also like to thank my grandparents, sister, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who have all stood by me and offered encouragement when I needed it most. Lastly, I would like to thank every teacher, mentor, administrator, and school staff member who has built me up throughout my time in Montgomery County.”
After graduation, Hardeman plans to study Agricultural Education and Agribusiness at the University of Georgia, as he plans to become an agriculture educator and work in the industry.
When asked if he had any advice for underclassmen, Hardeman remarked, “My advice would be to find a community that feels like home, encourages and pushes you to be your best self. Whether it’s a small friend group, organization, or team, you will only be as good as the people you surround yourself with. Very recently, someone told me, “People need people.” This couldn’t be more true. Without the community I have grown into over the past four years, I wouldn’t be where I am today. So, find those people who allow you to be yourself and drive you to be a better person each and every day.”
Salutatorian
Addy Shepherd, daughter of Andrea Finnerty and John Shepherd, is the 2026 Montgomery County High School Salutatorian.
Shepherd has attended Montgomery County Schools since her 7th grade year, and has been heavily involved in leadership, academics, athletics, healthcare, and community service. She served as Varsity Cheer Captain, participated in Student Council as both a chairperson and member, and currently serve as President of Beta Club after previously holding Treasurer and Public Relations positions. She has been a member of the school’s yearbook staff, FFA, Future Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), girls soccer team, Georgia High School Association (GHSA) Leadership Convention, and Meadows Medical Youth Advisory Board.
Throughout high school, she has completed over 300 service hours through Beta Club and volunteered with organizations including Meadows Memorial Hospital’s VolunTEEN Program, the Special Olympics, Red Cross Blood Drives, the Salvation Army, and local literacy and elementary school programs, all while maintaining a Top 10 class ranking throughout high school, and earning AHonor Roll and Principal’s Honor Roll recognition all four years.
Shepherd received the Georgia Distinguished Learner Recognition in U.S. History, the Language Arts Excellence Award for two years, and was selected for the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council. Along with her academic achievements, she successfully passed the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) Exam, further preparing her for a future career in healthcare.
“Being named salutatorian was definitely the best part of high school – knowing that all my hard work for four years has paid off,” Shepherd commented. “I would like to thank my teachers who have believed in me and instilled the importance of taking my education seriously & making a difference. I would have to say my history teacher, Mrs. [Madison] Lankford has given me many opportunities to advance in my leadership and has given me motivation to help change my community.”
Shepherd plans to attend Southeastern Technical College to pursue a degree in nursing, and hopes to eventually work at Memorial Health Meadows Hospital as a labor and delivery nurse.
When asked if she had any advice for her fellow students, Shepherd replied, “Anything is possible. If you would’ve told me that I would be Salutatorian last year, I wouldn’t have believed you. I would also say to put yourself out there and be involved. You never know what could happen in these four years, so make the most of it. Anything is possible, and I am proof.”
Robert Toombs Christian Academy Robert Toombs Christian Academy Valedictorian Autumn Delynne Moore is the daughter of Matt and Heather Moore, and has attended the school since Kindergarten.
During her time in high school, Moore has participated in spirit cheerleading, swim team, soccer, track, and basketball – where she was a part of the Region Championship team her freshman and sophomore years, as well as the State Championship team of 2024 – winning several honors in each sport. She was a member of the Region Championship and State Runner Up One Act Play Team, and placed in the region Rhetorical Essay competition as a part of the school’s Literary Team.
She is a member of the Leo Club, serving as the Club’s President this year; Beta Club, placing 3rd in State in Color Photography her freshman year and 1st in the category her senior year and serving as the Club’s President; Student Government Association, serving as a class representative; Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), serving as a huddle leader; National Honor Society; Meadows Medical Youth Advisory Board; Memorial Health Meadows Hospital VolunTEEN Program, where she volunteered 56 hours; and 2025-2026 Greater Vidalia Youth Leadership Program.
She has placed twice in the local Rotary Club Speech Competition, and received the Georgia Certificate of Merit, College Board Advanced Placement (AP) Scholar Award, College Board Rural and Small Town Recognition Award, School Recognition Award, STAR Student Award, and Academic Athlete of the Year Award.
“I feel satisfied that the years of hard work paid off,” Moore shared. “I would like to thank my parents for supporting me and the great teachers I have had at Robert Toombs and Southeastern Technical College that prepared me for college.”
She plans to attend Berry College to study biology and participate in the Winshape Program before attending graduate school to become a Physician’s Assistant.
When asked her advice for underclassmen, Moore said, “My advice to the underclassmen, in the words of Paul in Colossians 3:23, is to ‘do everything as if you are doing it for the Lord.’” Salutatorian
The Robert Toombs Christian Academy 2026 Salutatorian is Mekhia A. Bell, daughter of Dr. E. Muriel Bell and Stephanie Nails.
Bell has attended Robert Toombs Christian Academy since Kindergarten, and has participated in several extracurricular activities and earned many accolades, including: State Track and Field Champion (8-12 grades) Record Breaker in 100m dash Region Track and Field Champion and High Points Winner Captain of the Soccer Team Christian Leadership Athlete of the Year Altamaha EMC Washington D.C. Youth Leadership Tour Delegate Member of the National Honors Society Member of the Meadows Regional Hospital Youth Leadership Board Member of the Memorial/ Meadows Regional Hospital Volunteen Program Member of the Greater Vidalia Youth Leadership Board Member of the People’s Bank Youth Leadership Board Headmaster’s Honors List Member of Student Government Association Member of the Lyons Leo Club -Vice President Regional Extemporaneous Speech Winner Member of One Act Play -Best Actor Award Student of Month “I am happy to know that hard work pays off,” Bell emphasized. “I would like to thank my parents for always being there for me and supporting me in all my endeavors present and future. I also would like to thank my favorite teachers for honing my academic abilities.”
After high school, Bell plans to attend college and medical school.
When asked if she had any advice for underclassmen, Bell remarked, “Always do what is in your best interest.” Toombs County High School The 2026 Toombs County High School Valedictorian is Mareli Luna-Munoz, daughter of Juan Luna and Maria Munoz.
Munoz has attended Toombs County Schools since pre-k, and has participated in Varsity Soccer and Cross Country, Beta Club, and the Memorial Health Meadows Hospital Volunteen Program, where she volunteered 153 hours of service.
She was a member of the 2025-2026 Greater Vidalia Youth Leadership Program and Meadows Medical Staff Youth Advisory Board, and received the AP Scholar Award and Georgia Certificate of Merit. She also successfully completed the classes and licensure needed to become a Certified Nursing Assistant prior to graduating from high school.
“I am so blessed to receive this honor, I would not have been able to do it without the people that have helped me get this far,” Munoz commented. “I would like to thank God because he has guided me through every step of the way and has been there for me when I felt confused or stressed. I would also like to thank my parents because without their sacrifices I would have never been able to have the opportunities I have now. They came to this country and worked tirelessly to give me a better life than they had.”
Munoz will be attending the University of Georgia this fall to study biology, then plans to attend graduate school to become a Physician’s Assistant.
When asked if she had any advice for her fellow students, Munoz said, “My biggest piece of advice is have fun and create many memories while focusing on their studies. Life does not always have to be about school but definitely do not get carried away with careless mistakes they might regret one day. Enjoy every moment of laughter with friends because life changes and you will not spend this much time together again.”
Salutatorian
Toombs County High School Salutatorian Emily Carter is the daughter of Jessica and Brad Carter, and has attended the Toombs County School System for the entirety of her academic career.
During high school, she participated in Beta Club and Choir, receiving many accolades, and has been on the school’s highest level of honor roll for all four years.
“I am thrilled to receive this honor. It feels nice to see the hard work I have put in be recognized,” she shared. “I would like to thank my family for making sure I stayed focused on academics while still having fun during my highschool years. I would also like to thank the faculty for always being supportive.”
Though Carter is undecided about the next steps in her future, she is excited for the opportunities to come.
When asked her advice to underclassmen, she commented, “My advice to underclassmen is to remember that high-school goes faster than you think and to enjoy the moments you have with friends.” Treutlen High School
Treutlen High School Valedictorian Izzy Edge is the daughter of Rachel and Marty Edge, and has attended the school system for 14 years.
She has qualified for the state track and cross country championships all four years of high school, and placed twice in the state track competition. She served as a delegate on the Altamaha EMC Washington Youth Tour and attended the Summer Leadership Experience at U.S. Army West Point. She has been in the Top 10% of her class all four years of high school, and has logged over 200 volunteer hours with the Beta Club. Edge is also very involved with her church and helps to lead worship every Sunday.
“It feels pretty unbelievable to finally see the results of all of the work I have put in over the years,” she emphasized. “I would like to thank my parents and grandparents for always pushing me to be my best and being proud of me no matter what.”
Edge plans to attend Brewton-Parker Christian University, and hopes to work with children in the future to help make an impact on their lives.
When asked her advice for underclassmen, she said, “My advice to underclassmen is to not get too worked up about things that might seem like a big deal. One bad grade, one bad friend, one bad day won’t break you if you don’t let it.”
Salutatorian
The 2026 Treutlen High School Salutatorian is Alex Sammons, son of Lyndsay and Matthew Sammons.
He has attended Treutlen County Schools since kindergarten, and has participated on the soccer and cross country teams. This upcoming fall, Sammons plans to attend Augusta University to study computer science. “I am very honored to receive this award because it makes me feel recognized for all of my hard work and dedication,” Sammons said. “I’d like to thank my parents, Ms. Susan, Chris Young, Eva Young, and Ms. Deborah.”
When asked his advice for underclassmen, he reminded them of the importance about not stressing about school, friends, or life.
Wheeler County High School
The 2026 Wheeler County High School Valedictorian is Anna Elizabeth Ethredge, daughter of Pat and Rebecca Ethredge.
Ethredge has attended Wheeler County Schools since pre-k, and has participated in several extracurricular activities and earned many accolades, such as: Softball for 4 years Softball Rookie of the Year
Softball Secons team all-region Softball1st team allregion and led the region with the highest batting average Soccer Soccer Rookie of the Year Beta Club FCA Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) FFA – President Star FFA Member Award and Scholarship Chemistry Award American Literature Award Highest Scoring Team Member in the Regional Education Service Agency (RESA) Math Contest Georgia Certificate of Merit Recipient Honor Roll With Distinction She reacted to being named Valedictorian, saying, “It feels incredibly rewarding, humbling, and truly blessed. I’m grateful for the support from my family, teachers, and classmate, and I’m honored to represent my class in this way. First and foremost I would like to thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for guiding me every step of the way. I’m also incredibly thankful for my parents, teachers and faculty, and classmates for their constant support, encouragement, and influence throughout this journey.”
After graduation, Ethredge plans to study nursing at Georgia Southern University in hopes of later becoming a labor and delivery nurse.
When asked her advice for underclassmen, she said, “Take more chances: join clubs, try new things. It’s easier to regret what you didn’t do than what you did.”
Salutatorian
Wheeler County High School Salutatorian Layla Gibbs, daughter of Dwayne and Jessie Gibbs, has attended Wheeler County Schools since 8th Grade.
She served as a cocaptain of the football cheerleading squad, and participated in FFA, FBLA, FCCLA, FCA, and the Student Government Association. She served as a Youth Alive leader, and received awards for being in the Top 10% of her class, Honor Roll with Distinction, and the Georgia Certificate of Merit.
After graduation, Gibbs will attend Brewton-Parker Christian University to obtain her nursing degree.
“It feels like all my hard work has finally paid off,” she explained. “First and foremost, I would like to thank my Savior, Jesus Christ. Without His grace, I would have never accomplished this. Next, I would like to thank my parents for their unwavering support.”
When asked her advice for her fellow students, Gibbs commented, “Do your work honestly and do your very best. Join clubs, do activities, try out for sports, and most importantly, be who God has called you to be.”
Vidalia Heritage Academy Vidalia Heritage Academy Valedictorian Lydia Brooke Horne is the daughter of B.L. and Ginger Horne, and has attended the school the entirety of her academic career.
She has participated in Harvard Model Congress and Georgia 4-H, where she became a Master 4-H’er twice and earned a state championship in the Club’s competitions twice. She has been a member of the school’s track and archery teams, and has been at the top of her class for several years, earning awards for continued from page
having the highest average in numerous subjects. She also received the Christian Character Award for three years of high school.
“Receiving this honor is something I have always dreamed of. I began working towards this goal when I was in the first grade and have worked my hardest through the years to be able to achieve it. I would like to thank my parents for encouraging me through the years and always pushing me to do my best. I would like to thank each and every one of the teacher’s I have had at VHA for all they have done for me and the lasting impact they have made on my life,” Horne emphasized.
This fall, Horne will attend Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College to obtain a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Agriculture with an emphasis in Animal Science, and then hopes to attend the University of Georgia School of Veterinary Medicine in hopes of becoming a large animal veterinarian.
When asked her advice for underclassmen, she said, “To the underclassmen, have fun, enjoy your years in school with your friends. There will come a time when you won’t get to see your friends every day, so just enjoy the time you spend with them. Always remember who you are working for and who your life should exemplify – Jesus Christ.”
Salutatorian
The 2026 Vidalia Heritage Academy Salutatorian is Celina Reaves, daughter of Chris and Jana Reaves.
Reaves has attended Vidalia Heritage Academy for six years, and was a member of the school’s soccer team and National Honors Society. She plans to attend Georgia Southern University and study nutrition and dietetics after graduation.
“It feels amazing to be awarded for all of my hard work! I am so thankful for the people that helped me along the way!” she commented. “I would like to thank my parents, Chris and Jana Reaves. I’d also thank my friends that have pushed me to work harder or been my study partners in school!”
When asked if she had any advice for her fellow students, Reaves said, “I would tell them to work hard, but to remember that grades are not the most important thing in life. A relationship with Jesus should come first. The reason I have been able to be successful is because I didn’t consume myself in just grades but had a balance of friends, fun, studying, and had God before it all.”
Vidalia High School
The 2026 Vidalia High School Valedictorian is Sadie Berry, daughter of Jason and Stacy Berry.
Berry has attended Vidalia City Schools since kindergarten, and has been very active in the schools extracurricular programs, having participated in softball, where she received 1st Team All-Region honors, and tennis. She is a member of the school’s HOSA Club, Beta Club, and FCA. She has represented her class as a Homecoming Court representative for four years and served as the Student Government Association President. Berry has also received the Georgia Merit Scholar and Scholar Athlete Awards.
She will attend the University of Georgia this fall, as she majors in biology on a Pre-Physician Assistant track. “I am truly honored to be named valedictorian of my class. It is such a special and humbling feeling to see all of the hard work, sacrifices, and perseverance throughout the years lead to this moment,” Berry emphasized. “I would like to thank my family for always showing me unwavering support and love.”
When asked if she had any advice for younger students, Berry replied, “Cherish your time in high school, it really does go by in a blink of an eye, so hold closely to your friendships, make as many memories as possible, and just enjoy every moment.”
Salutatorian
Vidalia High School Salutatorian Samantha Hall is the daughter of Anthony Hall and Mildred Anderson-Hall, and has attended the school for the entirety of her high school career.
She has been a member of the school’s Beta Club and the SoundTribe marching band. She has received several accolades over the last four years, such as AP Scholar with Honors, Georgia Certificate of Merit, 8 semesters of honor role, and highest average in multiple classes.
After graduation, she will attend Georgia Tech to study biomedical engineering.
“I am truly honored to receive this honor and I am proud of myself for the hard work and dedication it took to receive this honor,” Hall commented. “I would like to thank my friends and family who have supported me throughout my high school journey.”
When asked her advice to underclassmen, she shared, “Figure out a few things you like doing during high school and focus on them. Don’t compare yourself and what you are doing to others because everyone has their own path that they follow and high school is where everyone’s paths start to split and become unique.”
The Advance congratulates all members of the Class of 2026 and wishes them the best on their future endeavors.
