Averett University’s E. Stuart James Grant Center was filled with parents, family, friends and school staff on Saturday for George Washington High School’s graduation ceremony for the Class of 2024

At the ceremony, 249 students received their diplomas.

Graduate Stormy Moye, the 2024 Principal’s Award recipient, welcomed classmates and guests to the graduation ceremony.

“Each one of us has embarked on a journey filled with challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable memories, all leading to this culminating moment of achievement,” Moye said.

In his senior reflection, Student Council Association President Tradarious Harper encouraged students to recall their time in high school as learning experiences.

“As we move forward, let’s remember the lessons we’ve learned, let’s stay strong and keep pushing through the challenges, and always support each other,” Harper said. “The future is bright, and we have the power to make it amazing.”

Salutatorian Natalie Harris urged her fellow graduates to take advantage of their time, to leave nothing unfulfilled, and to not take anything for granted.

“I continue to find myself looking back on my memories, photographs, and videos wishing I had realized and sentimental these moments were,” Harris said. “….I could never grasp the significance of these events until it was finally over, how we will never be able to live these moments again…Nothing can top the feeling of actually being in the moment.”

In her address, while thanking her parents, Valedictorian Emily Bravo-Rodriguez explained that she began her school experience unable to speak English.

“When I first entered Danville Public Schools, I could only speak a few words of English,” Bravo-Rodriguez said. “Now, I stand before you today as George Washington High School’s first Latina Valedictorian, which was only possible because of your support.”

GW Principal Reyhan Deskins told graduates to honor the past and look ahead with determination and clarity towards future goals.

“The dedication you have shown to your studies, extracurricular activities, and personal growth has paved the way for this achievement,” Deskins said. “It’s important to recognize that this commitment is not a one time effort, but a continuous process…As you move forward, let this same level of dedication guide you to all future endeavors.”