Preparing for graduation and more
The school year is almost over and many young men and women are preparing to graduate and start their new journey. Graduation is one of the most exciting times in our lives. I could not wait to graduate from High School and go to college. But through my high school years, my path crossed with many mentors and leaders, as it has for many seniors this year.
R.J. Wilson began the Dress for Success program this year at Holly Springs High School. Seventeen young men that will be graduating this year joined the mentor program to prepare for work, college and to become leaders in the community.
Wilson said the program encourages young men to remain in school, complete all requirements for graduation, and be ready to face the global community and succeed at the highest level.
Throughout the year, Wilson has had several people in business, teachers, and other mentors come and speak to the seniors. Chester `Chic’ Campbell came to talk to the seniors two weeks ago.
“I am a graduate of Holly Springs High School. I’m passionate about this school,” Campbell said.
Campbell is the owner of Chic’s Barbershop in Holly Springs.
“A lot of you have plans,” Chic said. “But remember this in life-don’t be a rockin’ chair. Because you maybe rockin’ back and forth but you are not going anywhere.”
Chic encouraged the seniors to make the best of life and to keep up the excellent work.
“We believe in you,” Chic said.
Susie Brown, a Vista site supervisor, told to students to be the man God wants you to be. “Be the best you can be,” she said.
The Dress for Success program will give each young man a new suit and hold a banquet in April.
“We want them to understand that appearance, responsibility, accountability, attitude, and disposition can take them a long way in life if they apply these principles to their everyday living,” Wilson said.
The program teaches the students to move forward in life and to reach back and encourage others to follow in their footsteps.
DaQuan Smith, a former Holly Springs graduate who attends Radford University, Virginia will be the keynote speaker at the Dress for Success banquet to be held in April. Smith is an outstanding basketball player for the Radford Highlanders.
Byhalia High School Soccer team was District champs this season. The team has worked hard, and some seniors have received scholarships.
Carlos Vega signed with Blue Mountain College and received a $64,000 scholarship from the National Guard. Brandon Arias signed with Millsaps College, and Eduardo Vasquez signed to play with East Mississippi Community College.
Coach Teri Reagh said that only one other Byhalia High School senior had received a soccer scholarship. “This year we have these three and more receiving scholarships,” Reagh said.