VHA Names Historian & Theologian
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In preparation for the graduation of the Class of 2026, Vidalia Heritage Academy has named the class’s historian and theologian, who will each speak at graduation.
In addition to having the traditional valedictorian and salutatorian in each graduating class, Vidalia Heritage Academy uniquely honors two additional students, as they name the student with the third highest cumulative high school GPA as the class’s Historian and the student with the fourth highest cumulative high school GPA as the class’s Theologian.
Teagan Carney, daughter of Eric and Ashley Carney, is the Class of 2026 Historian. Carney has attended Vidalia Heritage Academy for the entirety of her academic career, and gained many accolades – including being the 2025 Homecoming Queen, receiving the Georgia Certificate of Merit, and being named to the 2025 All Star Cheerleading Squad.
She has been a member of the school’s Harvard Model Congress team, cheerleading squad, archery team, tennis team, and track and field team. She is also very active in the community, having spent two summers volunteering with the Memorial Health Meadows Hospital Volunteen Program, and having served on the Memorial Health Meadows Hospital Youth Advisory Board and Greater Vidalia Youth Leadership Program.
“Receiving this honor provides a deep satisfaction and validation for years of hard work. I am honored and thankful to be VHA’s 2026 Class Historian, as it motivates me to continue improving while appreciating how far I have come,” she remarked. “The achievements I have received would not have been possible without the love and support of my parents, who constantly guide and encourage me. I am deeply thankful for their reassurance that has helped me grow both academically and spiritually. This honor inspires me to continue to work hard and make them proud.”
After graduation, Carney plans to attend Augusta University to major in kinesiology on a medical professions track to become a physician, and eventually, an anesthesiologist.
When asked if she had any advice to underclassmen, Carney said, “My advice to underclassmen is to stay focused and consistent. Success does not happen overnight, but it comes from effort and determination. Also, remember to enjoy the journey. Make genuine friendships and strive for excellence in all that you do.”
Allegra Demircioglu Martinez, daughter of Adriana Martinez and Tufan Demircioglu, is the class’s theologian.
Martinez has attended VHA for four years, and was on the school’s sideline and competition cheerleading squads and track team. She has received the Principal’s Award for the past two years for having the highest overall GPA in her class.
“I am extremely blessed and honored to be receiving this title,” she emphasized. “I would like to thank my parents for always supporting me and encouraging me to chase my dreams no matter how big they may seem.”
After graduation, Martinez plans to attend the University of California Berkeley Campus to major in molecular environmental biology on a preveterinary track.
When asked if she had any advice for underclassmen, Martinez shared, “Do everything to the best of your ability even if the outcome isn’t perfect.”
Martinez and Carney will graduate alongside their classmates at a ceremony at the First Baptist Church of Vidalia at 9 a.m. on Saturday, May 23.
