Amid the regulations of the COVID-19 pandemic, O’Neal is working hard to ensure its graduates are celebrated and recognized to the greatest extent possible.
Friday, May 22 in O’Neal’s theater, graduates will arrive at different assigned time slots, with their family members (of 10 or less) to formally receive their diploma on stage.
A live commencement featuring participation from the valedictorian, salutatorian and guest commencement speaker will happen later in July. This commemorates the 44th commencement for The O’Neal School.
O’Neal’s valedictorian is Isabella Miller, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Chris Miller of Seven Lakes.
Salutatorian is Niasha Kodzai, daughter of Drs. William and Za’Vette Kodzai of Southern Pines. Niasha is also a NCSU Park Scholar.
Jr. Marshals are Molly Kuzma, daughter of Dr. Charles and Mrs. Christine Kuzma of Foxfire and Tea Waldt, daughter of Ms. Kristina Waldt of Southern Pines.
The class of 2020 consisting of 30 students, so far has amassed more than $1.8 million in merit-based scholarships. The students are matriculating to 23 institutions of higher learning in 14 states, 1 abroad and 1 military enlistment.
They will be attending a variety of public and private colleges and universities, such as Barrett – The Honors College at Arizona State, Clemson University, Colorado State University, Hood College and the University of Aberdeen in Scotland.
Nicole Adam has committed to UNC-Chapel Hill’s Women’s Golf Program and Sam Henry has committed to Colby College’s Men’s Tennis.
Courtey photo: L,R; Kodzai, Kuzma, Miller, and Waldt.
Contributed
