MECHS Graduation 2007
192 earn diplomas
By JARED PUTNAM Union Sentinel Editor

Sentinel photo/Jared Putnam A Union County graduate puts his hand to his ear, gesturing for his friends to cheer louder.

Last year Mountain Education Center High School graduated a class of 127 students, the largest in its' history. This year the alternative education program easily topped that number, allowing a record high 192 graduates to make the most of a second chance to earn a diploma.

The ceremony was held at Fannin County High School's performing arts facility, and included graduates from Fannin, Gilmer, Lumpkin, Pickens, Towns, Union, and White County. The 39 Union County graduates in attendance was the largest number from any of the seven counties. A total of 66 students graduated with honors, including 16 Union County students in attendance.

MECHS Principal Wade Smith told those in attendance just how proud the entire faculty was of "these students who have demonstrated an outstanding determination and character." Smith continued, "We are gathered here tonight to applauded them and help them celebrate this momentous occasion."

Sentinel photo/Jared Putnam Principal Wade Smith looks on as Tommy Stephens turns tassels.

An annual scholarship in honor of Principal Smith was unveiled at this year's ceremony, as he personally handed out the awards to the inaugural recipients.

81-year-old Rev. Troy Acree delivered the inspirational message, telling the audience how much God has provided him and his large family. He talked to the graduates about their futures, telling them, "You are not through when you get through here tonight."

Salutatorian Whitney Nicole Huey of White County thanked all the teachers at MECHS for their efforts. "I couldn't have done it without you," Huey said. She asked the students to always remember those who have believed in them and helped them succeed.

Valedictorian Kristina Marie Cromwell, also of White County, discussed values and self initiated learning. "We have all had our reasons for attending Mountain Education High School, but we have all had one common goal, to finish high school," Cromwell said. "It has not always been easy, but it is because of that common goal that we are all graduating. As we are gathered here today, we are celebrating the beginning, not the end, of a wonderful achievement."

Featured guest speaker Rep. Ben Bridges told the graduates that he could remember sitting right where the graduates were sitting and stressed how important the accomplishment is in a person's life. "You have crossed a big hurdle tonight," he said. "You are receiving the key that will unlock a lot of doors. If you will get your college degree it will unlock more doors for you."

Rep. Bridges spoke about numerous individuals, but the overall theme came back to being a success in life. The representative told the graduates that being a success was a lot more than graduating, or making a lot of money, or retiring comfortably. "It is giving back to your community, your church, to all who have given to you in the years" Rep. Bridges said.