Class of 2024: South Iredell High School (Photos)

BY JABRIA WILLIAMS

As members of the South Iredell High School graduating class prepared to head into the next chapter of their lives, they first recited together the four principles that shaped their time as Vikings: Service, Innovation, Honor, Success.

Those themes were repeated throughout Saturday morning’s graduation ceremony, which was held in Vikings Stadium.

Principal Robert Little reminded the graduates that, as the school’s 58th graduating class, they are now part of a legacy of students who have found success following their time at South Iredell High.

“You will always be a member of the Viking nation and like the long line of Vikings that came before you, I can’t wait to see all that you do,” Little said.

Ava Wilberding, the Senior Class president, delivered a heartwarming speech that encouraged her fellow graduates to carve their own paths.

“There are many ways to climb to the top of the pyramid, and no matter where your journey after high school takes you, I hope you all find the place that’s right for you,” she said.

Chanika Stewart-Graham, Class of 1995, served as the guest speaker. The owner of Stewart Graham Realty urged the graduating class to “give back to the community that gave to you” and reminded them, “You are the architects of your own future.”

During the ceremony, the Class of 2024 presented a diploma to Allen and Karen Church, parents of Dawson Church, who died in December of 2021 in an ATV accident. Dawson would have been part of the 2024 graduating class, and an empty chair was placed among the graduates in his memory.

The graduation included performances by the Viking Voices and the South Iredell Brass Ensemble.