In the runup to graduation last week, the Union County High School Class of 2026 was applauded for both their collective and individual accomplishments during Senior Honors Night on Monday, May 18, at the Fine Arts Center.
Over the years, senior awards and scholarship recognitions have been consolidated into one night of celebration prior to graduation, featuring two hour-long presentations broken up by a brief intermission.
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The first half, made up of the awards ceremony, saw students noted for completing particular pathways or courses, displaying exceptional academic skill, participating in extracurriculars like Beta Club and Spanish Club, joining the military or helping put together the yearbook.
This includes awards for “outstanding achievement and character.” The Most Outstanding Student Award went to Samantha Odom, and Jolie Schmitt earned the Best All Around Award.
Bo Brown took home the School Spirit Award, and Carlyn Turner received the Hang Tough Award. Matthew Ekeberg was named the recipient of the Inspiration Award, and last but not least, Lola Hunter accepted the Best All Around Athlete Award.
Of course, 2026’s Valedictorian and Salutatorian had their moment on stage as well, with Samantha Odom and Savannah Love filling those roles respectively. Both girls stated they had already prepared graduation speeches to address a class they hope will face only prosperity.
“I’m very excited,” Odom said of her top achievement, admitting she recognized the hard work that went into it. Following opportunities to shadow local practices, she plans on attending the University of Georgia this fall to major in biological science before going on to dental school in Augusta.
Since becoming STAR Student, Love has committed to taking part in a seven-year program at Augusta University to begin her journey to become a cardiothoracic surgeon. She was not expecting to be named Salutatorian, but, like Odom, is proud of the effort that got her there.
As for the scholarship portion of the program, funds to help further the Class of 2026’s education came from a variety of sources. Many were from the colleges students applied for, such as Young Harris College, North Georgia Technical College, the University of Georgia and others.
Several scholarships also came from notable businesses and community organizations, and more than a few were given in the name of memorializing prominent members of the community, such as the Derrick Whittle Scholarship. Yet other students received funds due to the membership of their parents in certain organizations or their employment.
Additionally, the Class of 2026 is earning $5,899,200 from HOPE and Zell Miller scholarships. This, coupled with the $1,103,625 originating from local businesses, colleges and the community at large, means that the Class of 2026 is enjoying a grand total of $7,002,825 in financial aid.
“As you can see, this is a very special class that has accomplished so much,” said UCHS Principal Josh Davis at the end of the evening. “These students have great futures ahead of them.”
