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By Mike Barnhardt
Enterprise Record

Simon Says: Stand up and text someone who has helped you along the way.
Almost immediately, cell phones started pinging across War Eagle Stadium and across Davie County as members of the Davie County High School Class of 2025 did as they were told during commencement exercises Saturday morning.
Sean Lane, graduating senior and the academic speaker for the ceremony, started by playing a game of Simon Says.
“Think about someone, who during the past four years, has helped to get you to where you are today,” he said to classmates.
“Yes, we are here as the Class of 2025, but more importantly, a class of hundreds of unique, beautiful, strong people, students and learners who each have their own path,” Sean said. “A hug can go a long way. You might not get another chance.”
The diploma is more than an academic achievement, he said, it represents memories and friendships.
Along the way, each student has experienced failure in some form, and will likely do so for the rest of their lives. Failures, he said, are foundations for future wins.
“Life is a great balancing act. You’re off to great places, so get on your way.”
Jackson Powers, the War Eagle speaker, nominated by the community and voted on by fellow seniors, told graduates that wherever they go, they will carry part of Davie County with them.
“We celebrate every moment that brought us here. We did it, every test, every paper, every early morning, every late night, they have brought us here and we have earned this moment,” Jackson said.
“Each one of us has something unique to give to the world, an idea, a story, a vision, a heart. So don’t change yourself just to fit in. If you change to be like everyone else, then the world will be missing the idea, the story, the vision, the heart we were meant to share.
“Davie County isn’t just a dot on the map. It’s a part of us,” Jackson said. “As we go out into the world … we’ll take that pride with us. We are carrying our town, our families, our friends and all the lessons we have learned here.
“You come from Davie County, a place with one high school and 1,000 stories, a place where people know your name, neighbors wave, and teachers remember you even after the final bell. You come from a community that raised you, shaped you and stood by you.
“We have the strength of Davie County behind us and the courage that comes from knowing who we are. Be bold, be kind, be curious … and never, ever forget where you came from,” Jackson said.
John Holcomb, student body president, told graduates to reach beyond the sky.
“Everything we’ve done, every memory we’ve made in this county, is culminating today. The education and opportunities we’ve been given would not have been possible without the passionate staff and teachers who believed in us and challenged us,” John said.
“I encourage each graduate to set their limits beyond the sky. I’ve seen us grow and achieve many goals,” John said. “Not only do I believe we will be successful, so does everyone who supported us. Let’s remember to maintain the integrity, passion and diligence we learned here at Davie High.”
Davie High Teacher of the Year Collin Ferebee was the speaker, highlighting those who have helped him get to where he is today.
“To be successful, you must take the time to reflect on what is important, who you want to be, and how you can become the best version of that person.
“We often think there is a right and a wrong path. While some paths may be preferred … we don’t always get to pick what we want. It is up to you to make the best of what you’re given and to use those experiences to become the best version of yourself.”
The ceremony also included comments and an invocation from Abigail Grace Etter, senior class president, and remarks from Principal Michael Pruitt.