Messenger Intern

May 30 was a magical night for the 64 graduates at Pike County High School. The PCHS gymnasium was jam-packed with friends, family members and faculty who arrived in hopes of showing their support as the Class of 2002 said their final farewells.

The Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps presented the American and Alabama Flags. "Pomp and Circumstance" was then played as the graduates made their way into the gym. After being seated, the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was led by Senior Class President Yashana Lorean Adams. Stalanda Brandi Hill graced the audience by singing the National Anthem. Heather Renee Taylor then gave the Invocation.

Principal Terry Casey welcomed all parents and grandparents by asking them to stand. He then urged all of the graduates to "cherish this moment. Never forget how you got here tonight and who led you here."

Chad Ryan Riffle, PCHS Salutatorian gave his Salutatory Address. He began by saying that it is hard for him to believe that he is finally graduating, because he has dreamed about it for so long.

"I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart…my family, faculty, peers. Now we well all go our separate ways, but we will all carry a part of one another. If any of us has made a positive difference in at least one person’s life, then we’ve truly made a difference," he said.

Valedictorian Meredith Leigh Griffin gave her Valedictory Address, appreciating her chance to say goodbye to those people in her life that have molded her into the young woman she is today.

"This will be the last time we see each other, for the world is small. At least, this will be the last time that we are all in one place together. Never forget that we have the ability to take life’s opportunities and make the best of them. We have responsibilities to our selves and each other to make sure that we use our opportunities to the best of our abilities. I urge all of you to leave no room for regrets in this life, because life does not come with a guarantee," Ms. Griffin said.

Principal Terry Casey and Assistant Principal Joseph Boyd awarded diplomas and certificates of graduation to each senior. The Alma Mater was then sung by the audience before the recessional of "Pomp and Circumstance."