2020 Commencement Exercises › media.cloversites.com › 90 › 90967686-… · Matthew 6:33,...

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Processional: Pomp and Circumstance Welcome: Chris Jones Invocation: Rob Catuto Salutatory Address: Autumn Fox Recognition of Parents Valedictory Address: Bria Honea Special Guest: Jeff Peterson Conferring of Diplomas Presentation of Graduates Benediction: Brian Cox Recessional: Pomp and Circumstance 2020 Commencement Exercises Victory Baptist Academy • June 1, 2020 • 7 PM

Transcript of 2020 Commencement Exercises › media.cloversites.com › 90 › 90967686-… · Matthew 6:33,...

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Processional: Pomp and Circumstance

Welcome: Chris Jones

Invocation: Rob Catuto

Salutatory Address: Autumn Fox

Recognition of Parents

Valedictory Address: Bria Honea

Special Guest: Jeff Peterson

Conferring of Diplomas

Presentation of Graduates

Benediction: Brian Cox

Recessional: Pomp and Circumstance

2020Commencement

ExercisesVictory Baptist Academy • June 1, 2020 • 7pm

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*Students wearing a red cord have attended VBA since kindergarten.

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From the AdministratorDear Family and Friends of the Graduates,

Thank you so much for attending the commencement exercises for the Victory Baptist Academy class of 2020. These thirteen have had a full year and have experienced a year of some “firsts”: a class with students who attended VBA from kindergarten all the way through their senior year, VBA Mobile, and a toilet paper shortage. They have also experienced some “lasts”: their last first day of school at VBA, their last game as a VBA Patriot and their last day as a high school senior. I celebrate with them the closing of this chapter and the beginning of another chapter.

This class represents the tenth graduating class from Victory Baptist Academy and the first graduating class to have their parents become their principal and teacher due to a global pandemic. Since our founding in 2007, our mission has been to ensure that every student learns truth. I believe these students have been immersed in truth at VBA. It has been an honor to partner alongside you in influencing these amazing young men and women. They are not the finished product, but we pray that their time at VBA has given each of them a firm foundation. It will be exciting to observe what the Lord accomplishes in them.

So today, join me in praying that God’s richest blessings will be poured out upon them, not just that they simply live a “good” life, but that God may be glorified in everything that they do!

Training Spiritual Patriots for His Glory,

Chris Jones

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Bryson Cole AdamsBirthday: May 18, 2002

Born: Weatherford, Texas

Siblings: Chance Cox (23), Brittany Cox (20), and Chloe Munoz (19)

Activities and Interests:Bryson’s main hobby and passion is fishing. During his time at VBA, he was involved in multiple sports, including baseball from its inaugural season. He also participated in basketball, soccer, and track. During the 2018-2019 sports season, Bryson received the Varsity Baseball Coach’s Award for his accomplishments on the field. That same year, he earned the JV basketball’s Most Improved Player Award.

Future Plans:Bryson intends on attending Weatherford College for two years before transferring to another college to complete a degree in criminal justice. With this, he would like to either pursue a career as a police officer or a game warden.

From the Graduate:You don’t have to be like others to fit in. Today’s society has this misconception that in order to be accepted you must follow in footsteps of your peers. It’s not like that at all. We are all different, it is ok to be you. It’s ok to not be like everyone else and there’s a good reason we are who we are. Throughout this year I have been tested in many different areas. Some I am proud of and some I

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am not. Lots of lessons learned, that’s for sure. My parents have told me on many occasions, these situations don’t define who I am, it’s what I do and how I handle those situations that make me who I am. VBA and VBC have afforded me the opportunity to have many people in my life that have impacted my life substantially. Without all of these people, I couldn’t be who I am. I’ve still got a ways to go and I definitely don’t have life figured out but when I need guidance I know who I can rely on and to those people I am eternally grateful.

Favorite Scripture Verses: Judges 13-16, the story of Samson. I’ve always loved to hear the story of Samson. A man of great strength, all God-given. But his

muscles, his strength, those two things didn’t get him killed, it was his heart and eyes. Nowadays, we get what we want and realize it isn’t all that great.

1 Samuel 17, David and Goliath, David overcame this big beast through faith. He believed that God could get him through that difficult part of his life.

Matthew 14:22-33, Jesus walking on water. Dur-ing troubling times and storms in our life, we can keep our focus on God. Once we getaway, and lose sight of God, we sink.

Most important things you hope to accomplish in the next decade: Find a home to live in, get the job I want, live a godly life, and make memories with the people I love.

What is a little known fact about you?In one night, I was taught how to rope a calf.

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Birthday: November 9, 2001

Born: Abilene, Texas

Siblings: Jonah (17)

Activities and Interests:Harrison enjoys being outdoors whether it be hiking, skate-boarding, or working out. He loves hanging out with friends and taking trips really anywhere. Harrison has played guitar for many years and currently is in a band. Aside from making his own mu-sic, he enjoys helping others produce their music with the home studio he has created. Harrison attends church at Christ Chapel Bible Church and enjoys the fellowship with the people he has met there. During his time at VBA, he has participated in many different programs. He was in two school plays, choric speaking, choir, and played guitar for the MSAACS competition. On two separate occasions, Harrison attended nationals for MSAACS. Harrison also played on the soccer team at VBA. He also repre-sented VBA as a Junior Ambassador through the Chamber of Commerce his junior year.

Future Plans:After graduation, Harrison plans on pursuing a career in music as well as continuing his study in music theory.

From the Graduate:Highschool is one of the most exciting and challenging times that someone can go through. To any lower classmen, I want you to always know to stay true to yourself.

Harrison Reece Castleberry

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Don’t let anybody tell you what you can and can’t do. Pursue the things that you want to do and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t. That being said, I want to thank Mrs. and Mr. Catuto for always being kind and caring in and outside of school. I also want to thank Mr. Peterson for showing me how to be a leader and for all the memories he helped make throughout my high school years.

Favorite Scripture Verses: Matthew 6:33, Hebrews 10:23, Proverbs 3:5

Most important things you hope to accomplish in the next decade: Over the next ten years, I plan on working full time, investing as much money as possible, and focusing on my music.

What is a little known fact about you?I love thrifting and shopping for clothes.

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Isaac Emile Chavez Birthday: December 27, 2001

Born: Fort Worth, Texas

Siblings: Elie (20), Lily (17), Alecia (10), Daniel (9), Isabel (7)

Activities and Interests:Isaac was active in the VBA athletic program. Throughout his time at VBA he played basketball, cross country, and soccer. He was recognized as the 2019 MVP for the soccer team.

Future Plans:Isaac plans to attend college to earn a music degree and will use that to help him in his goal of performing on stages for people across the world.

From the Graduate:Throughout my journey at VBA, I have made a family. All the way from age five to being eighteen and graduating I really couldn’t ask for more. I gained much leadership from some of my coaches such as Mr. Peterson, Mr. Brown, and Mr. Gonzales, but I want to give a special thank you to Mr. Peterson. He has been a huge mentor in my life and showed me my love for soccer before I ever knew I loved it. He believed in me in fifth grade and helped me strive for excellence. So to Mr. Peterson and all my other teachers, thank you for all you did in helping me graduate. Also, keep your eyes on Justin Moberly, that kid is next up for real.

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Favorite Scripture Verses: Galatians 6:3, Psalm 16:1, John 15:13

Most important things you hope to accomplish in the next decade: Make a sound that hits top 100, have a family, and be financially free.

What is a little known fact about you?I play bass for a band.

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Joseph Christopher DePorter

Birthday: July 22, 2002

Born: Geneseo, Illinois

Siblings: Ryan (16)

Activities and Interests:During Joey’s high school career, he was active in the athletic programs at both Weatherford High School and VBA. While at Weatherford High School, Joey played football and ran track. At VBA, he was a part of the baseball, soccer, and cross country teams. He also earned the Offensive Player of the Year Award in baseball. During his free time, Joey enjoys playing the banjo and doing kickboxing.

Future Plans:Joey plans to attend Weatherford College and study to become a physical therapy aid or x-ray tech. Since MMA is a passion of Joey’s, he is hoping to eventually turn his hobby into a career.

From the Graduate:I had a good run through high-school and made a lot of good memories. I didn’t always prioritize my grades and schoolwork but I’m glad I used high-school as a social outlet and a way to make friends rather than a place to go sit down and work for seven hours. I still managed to graduate apparently, so I’m content. I’d like to thank my parents for helping me get through some of the harder times in high-school mostly for being supportive when I messed up, and everyone who I became friends with up to this point, and

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thank you to my teachers who helped bring me back up when I was falling behind.

Favorite Scripture Verses: Philippians 4:13John 3:16Psalm 144These verses are my favorite because they have been a staple in my life, as I’ve studied scripture these are the ones that have spoken to me.

Most important things you hope to accomplish in the next decade: I want to graduate college, own a house, and hopefully begin a professional MMA career.

What is a little known fact about you?I have dogs.

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Autumn Rain FoxBirthday: October 16, 2001

Born: Hanau, Germany

Siblings: Cheyenne Fox (20). Eryka Merriam (14), Race Fox (13)

Activities and Interests:Autumn has been very involved at VBA during her time here. Her excellent academics earned her the superlative of Salutatorian for the Class of 2020. She is a member of the American Christian Honor Society and the Student Action Committee. She played basketball at her previous school, Trinity Baptist Temple Academy and also played volleyball her sophomore and junior year at VBA before becoming the team manager for half of the season her senior year. Outside of sports, Autumn has earned awards at MSAACS in poetry, choir, choral group, still life photography, polychromatic drawing, accounting, and home economics. She works for her family BBQ company, White Beard’s BBQ, and in her spare time, she enjoys interests such as anything art related, succulent gardening, music, and camping.

Future Plans:On August 1, 2020, Autumn will be marrying her best friend, Seth Morfin. At this moment in time, Autumn plans on attending college but is unsure of her field of study.

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From the Graduate:In my life, I have been influenced by many. I would like to thank my mom and dad, for sticking by my side even on my worst days. They keep me focused on my goals and they always love me no matter what. I would like to thank my fiance, Seth, for being the best friend I could ever ask for. He has always been the number one person I can count on when I need advice or I just need someone to listen to me rant about my day. I would like to thank my brother and sister. They will always be annoying to me, but I want them to know I love them so much. I would like to thank Kaylee Spindler. Kaylee has been my best friend since 2016. I would like to thank her for always being as weird as me, and helping me to see I don’t need to have ten good friends when I can have one great friend. I would like to thank Bria Honea. She is the reason I survived high school. I love that I found someone who is as equally nerdy as me. I cherish every moment we talked about conspiracy theories, binge-watched our favorite YouTubers, or stayed up late just talking about ridiculous things. Finally, I would like to thank Colby Smith. Colby and I have not known each other very long, but I feel like I’ve known him my whole life. Thank you for always being there for me and making me smile no matter what mood I am in. Thank you for all the crazy conversations that would make sense to no one but us. Thank you for being crazy and smart and silly. Thank you for everything. You deserve all the happiness this world has to offer you. There are so many more people I would like to thank, but there will never be enough words to express my gratitude to all of you. To every person who has been in my life or has taken the time to know me, thank you.

Favorite Scripture Verses: Life verse: Luke 1:37 “For with God nothing shall be impossible.” This verse helps me to remember that nothing is impossible when I have God on my side.

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Psalm 46:5 “God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, and that right early.” This verse says that God is within her and she shall not fail. I know that because he loves me and I have Him in my heart, I will be continually successful.

Proverbs 31:25 “Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.”

Most important things you hope to accomplish in the next decade: In ten years, I hope to be happily married, have a career in something I love, and start my own business.

What is a little known fact about you?I play the baritone ukulele.

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Octavia Mae HestandBirthday:July 29, 2002

Born: Abilene, Texas

Siblings: Baily (16), Brock (13)

Activities and Interests:Octavia has attended VBA her entire school career from Kindergarten to graduation. During her years at VBA, Octavia stayed very busy and participated in various school activities. Her athletic career consisted of nine years of basketball, seven years of volleyball and two years of track. Her senior year in basketball, Octavia was the team captain and earned a place on the All District Team and 2nd Team All State. She was also named the Offensive Player of the Year. Octavia participated in other extra curricular activities as well. She sang in the school choir for six years, was a member of Dramatic Productions for five years, was a VBA representative for Junior Ambassadors through the Chamber of Commerce, was vice president of the student council and president of 4-H Club. Through Global Next, Octavia was able to attend a study abroad trip to England. She was also voted Homecoming Queen for 2019-2020 and was awarded the Horizon Award of Parker County.

Future Plans:Octavia plans on attending Weatherford College to complete their vet tech program.

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From the Graduate:I have gone to Victory Baptist Academy since it started. I love my school, and I love this church. Since this epidemic broke out it’s really opened my eyes. I’ve realized how much my friends mean to me and how much I love going to church every Sunday and Wednesday. My graduating wouldn’t be possible without my loving parents. I love them so much, they have done everything for me, from teaching me English, driving, shooting guns, and cooking dinner. Their wisdom is far beyond me and I would have no idea where I would be if I didn’t have their loving care and spiritual guidance. I also want to mention my best friends, Baily and Brock. No matter how I act, no matter what I say or do, they still love me like I couldn’t imagine. I love them so much! To my grandparents thank you so much for loving me and for feeding me so much food at any given moment. Lastly, I want to thank all my teachers for putting up with me all these years and instilling truth into your teaching.

Favorite Scripture Verses: Matthew 6: 25, Matthew 6: 26, Matthew 6: 34

I love these verses because God reassures how much He loves us and that He will always take care of His people even when we doubt.

Most important things you hope to accomplish in the next decade: 1. Get a good job.2. Get married.3. Have a white house, with cows, dogs, and cactus.

What is a little known fact about you?I still like to go outside and make mud pies.

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Bria Austen Honea

Birthday:May 31, 2002

Born: Fort Worth, Texas

Siblings: Danica (12)

Activities and Interests:Bria is the class of 2020 Valedictorian. Her excellent academics also earned her a membership in the American Christian Honor Society. She is involved in many extracurricular activities at VBA. She is on the Student Action Committee that plans events for the student body. She also participates in choir, orchestra, and dramatic productions. Her freshman and sophomore years, Bria played volleyball and basketball. In addition, she has earned several awards at the MSAACS competition and attended nationals twice.

Future Plans:Bria plans to go to Weatherford College for her freshman year to work on her basics. Eventually, she would like to do something involving acting.

From the Graduate:This year has been an insane year, and I truly mean that. With COVID-19’s sudden appearance, our senior year has been very different. We’ve missed out on a lot of things because of this, but we’ve gained new experiences too. Our senior year has truly been unforgettable, both because of the unusual circumstances

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and the people. I wouldn’t be where I am today without all of the amazing people in my life. My closest friends and family have helped me through the toughest times and always supported me. First, I want to thank my two best friends, Autumn and Jennifer. I can always talk to them, and they encourage me. They always see the best in me. Next, I say thank you to my little sister Danica. We fight and annoy each other, but despite that, I know she has my back. She supports me, even when we don’t see eye to eye. Finally, my parents. I want to say thank you to my parents for loving me unconditionally. None of us are perfect, but I know that my parents will care for me no matter what, like they always have. Thank you, and love to you all.

Favorite Scripture Verses: All of Psalm 23, because it was one of the first passages I heard and it gives me peace. Isaiah 53:6, because it is a reminder of what Christ did for us. Matthew 5:16, because it was a class verse years ago, and stuck with me.

Most important things you hope to accomplish in the next decade: Get a job, finish college, get my own house/apartment/etc.

What is a little known fact about you?I’ve been reading since I was three. It’s my oldest and dearest hobby.

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Colby James Smith Birthday:November 28, 2001

Born: Weatherford, TX

Siblings: Jayden (16)

Activities and Interests:Basketball has been a big part of Colby’s high school career. He has received many awards for his talent on the court. He was named District MVP for 2020, made First Team all-state in 2018,2019 and 2020, named best offensive player in 2017, 2018, received 1,000 point Award and 1,500 Point Award. Colby was also recognized for his excellent academics as he was on the Academic All-State Team in 2019 for both basketball and cross country. When he isn’t on the court, Colby enjoys activities such as coding, music, photography, and archery. He is also involved in his church youth group and 4H.

Future Plans:Colby plans on attending Abilene Christian University where he will study Physics and Engineering. He also plans to possibly go on to graduate school to obtain a master’s degree.

From the Graduate:I am so grateful to everyone who has made an impact on my life. First and foremost, I want to thank my parents. They have been the biggest factor in my growth as a person, and more specifically they have given me the tools to succeed in life. My mom has helped foster my love of learning and critical thinking

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skills through homeschooling me the majority of my life, and my dad helped provide me with opportunities to stretch myself and always pushed me to work hard. Another person who has influenced my life greatly is Jeff

Peterson. He helped me grow as a basketball player at

first, but as the years went by he became a great role model in other areas of my life. I also want to thank each of my teachers from this year. Although I’ve only been at the school for a year I have learned so many things from each one of you, both academically and about life.

Favorite Scripture verses: Joshua 1:9, this is my life verse, and it means a lot to me to know that God is with me wherever I go.John 3:17, this was my Grandpa’s favorite verse that he used to always quote after people would use John 3:16. James 3:5, this verse just reminds me of how powerful the tongue is and how I need to strive to keep it under control.

Most important things you hope to accomplish in the next decade: Have a stable job at a nuclear power plant, this comes with a prerequisite of getting my Master’s Degree and potentially a Ph D. Start investing in real estate. Get married.

What is a little known fact about you?I helped rebuild the engine of a ‘69 Corvette Stingray and I can drive a stickshift.

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Colton James SquireBirthday: July 19, 2002

Born: Fairfield, California

Siblings: Chenisse (20) and Calissa (15)

Activities and Interests:Colton has been involved in many extracurricular activities both in and out of school. During his time at VBA, he has played basketball, baseball, and soccer. Colton is also a member of the school orchestra where he plays the baritone. He has also earned first place in the MSAACS competition for Brass Solo. Outside of school, Colton is involved with his youth group at Victory Baptist Church. He helps with VBS and visits nursing homes once a month with his youth group. He also plays baritone in the church orchestra.

Future Plans:Colton plans to attend Pensacola Christian College to earn a business and culinary arts degree which he will put to use when he opens a gluten-free bakery.

From the Graduate:First, I want to thank my parents. They have had a huge impact on my life. If I had different parents, I think I would be a completely different person with different values, different morals, and a duller if any relationship with Christ. I also want to thank all my teachers for

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their hard work, encouragement, and being cheerful and pleasant. They have been caring and willing to help. They have not only taught me about academic subjects but also they have taught me spiritual wisdom through either teaching it or by their actions. I also want to thank the office for their care and concern when I was having health issues. They were very concerned and did not complain. I also want to thank Mr. Wininger for his counseling and wisdom. He has made a huge impact on my life. I also want to thank Mr. Cox for his guidance and counsel. He has significantly helped me by reminding me to put Christ first and by being encouraging. I also want to thank Bro. Powell Johnson for his words of advice that he gave when the youth group helped at his house. He talked about how important it is to live for Christ, and how life should be revolving around Him. The way he spoke was very honest, eye-opening, and humbling.

Favorite Scripture Verses: Romans 8:38-39 It’s good to know that God loves us no matter what.James 1:2-4 It’s good to remember that when we go through something, it’s for a reason.1 Peter 1:3-5 It’s good to know that you can’t lose your salvation.

Most important things you hope to accomplish in the next decade: I would like to run a bakery, own a house, and be married.

What is a little known fact about you?I’m left-handed.

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Brittany Paige Ticzkus

Birthday: May 10, 2002

Born: Athens, Texas

Siblings: Trenton (20), Brady (8)

Activities and Interests:Brittany is involved in many areas at VBA. She has been a part of the athletic program by playing basketball and volleyball. She has also been involved in the music program by participating in the orchestra as well as competing in the MSAACS annual competition. Brittany earned many awards at the MSAACS competition over her high school career including 1st place with orchestra, 1st place with choric speaking, 1st place with choir, 2nd place for violin duet, 2nd for vocal solo and 3rd in violin solo. Brittany has also participated in dramatic productions and been to four leadership conferences abroad. Outside of school, Brittany helps in her church nursery and volunteers her Saturdays at Miracle League when it is in season.

Future Plans:Brittany is considering a degree in paralegal studies or political science and is currently undecided on where she plans to attend college.

From the Graduate:I want to thank everyone that has been involved in my education for many years, my dad was a big part of that and still is. Over the past few years, Mr. Jones has been a great administrator, and

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I appreciate all that he has done for the school. I have had the amazing opportunity to really get to know all the teachers, most of which I have known since I was a child. I am very glad to have gone to this school as long as I have. It has really impacted my life and has been a big part of my learning how to handle life outside of high school. The teachers have been so incredible, and I love each and every one of them. You can tell how much they love every student and how much they love being a part of all our lives. I also want to thank my parents for always being there for me when I need them. They have been a great support. I love this school, and I will really miss it. It has truly become like a second home to me, and I would like to thank everyone who has made this day possible.

Favorite Scripture Verses: Psalm 91:11 It is comforting for me to know that God is always watching and cares for me.Gal. 2:20 This is a good reminder of how I would like to live my life. I want to sacrifice my desires to show others that Christ lives in me.1 Peter 5:7 I love this reminder that I can go to Christ with all my troubles.

Most important things you hope to accomplish in the next decade: Figure out a major, graduate college, get a good job involved with the major I choose

What is a little known fact about you?My first, middle, and last names all changed for me between kindergarten and first grade. When I started kindergarten, they thought my name was spelled Brittney. Part way through the year they realized it was spelled Brittany. Then, my middle and last names were changed when I was adopted in the middle of 1st grade. I used to tell my mom that I wasn’t going to get married because I didn’t want to have to change my name again.

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Ethan Ray WatkinsBirthday: April 19, 2002

Born: Arlington, Texas

Siblings: Ryan (18)

Activities and Interests:Ethan enjoys wakeboarding, snowboarding, longboarding, and bike riding. He has played basketball from first grade through his junior year. He played for CCS in 9th grade before coming to VBA where he played his sophomore and junior years. Outside of school, Ethan worked at City Lights for about a year and has also been on many mission trips.

Future Plans:Ethan plans on attending film school to earn a bachelor’s degree so that he can be a sports cameraman for the NBA or NFL.

From the Graduate:What I gained from high school is friendships, learning how to grow as a person, and in God. I’d like to thank my dad for my whole life, always setting an example to my brother and me on how to not just talk about how to be a Christian but actually living it and seeing it through. There’s a lot of good memories that I received in high school and built lifelong friendships. Even after I moved to Weatherford, I’m still close to those friends that I left behind.

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Favorite Scripture Verses: John 3:16, John 16:33, 1 Corinthians 10:13

Most important things you hope to accomplish in the next decade: Marry the woman that God has chosen for me to spend the rest of my life with, hopefully, work my way up to be a sports cameraman for the NBA, and stay consistent in my walk with Christ.

What is a little known fact about you?I’ve been in an elevator with Dennis Rodman.

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Ryan James WatkinsBirthday: April 19, 2002

Born: Arlington, Texas

Siblings: Ethan (18)

Activities and Interests:Ryan enjoys going to the lake to wakeboard and surf when he can. He is also learning to play the guitar in his free time. While at VBA, Ryan played basketball. Through his church, he is active in his youth group and has also attended mission trips.

Future Plans:Ryan is currently undecided on post-graduation plans, but he is actively exploring several career options.

From the Graduate:There are many ways I’ve grown through these high school years that will be a part of me. I’m glad to start a new life outside of high school and see what the future holds for me. Along with all the influences in my life, my parents have had a really great influence on me. They have always helped me, led me to Christ and have grown me up in church. My other great influences are my extended family, teachers, friends, and coaches.

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Favorite Scripture Verses: James 1:4 is my favorite out of the three. The reason why I chose this verse is that in many situations I’ve had to have patience and perseverance, so when I become impatient I pull out that verse.

Jeremiah 29:11; This is an good verse to have at times when I lack trust in God and His plan for me, and I want to do things myself.

I Corinthians 16:13-14; This verse is a good reminder of how to be a godly man.

Most important things you hope to accomplish in the next decade: I’m hoping to be well on my way to a successful career in whatever path God leads me, have a family, and make a difference in the world.

What is a little known fact about you?I really enjoy shooting pool with friends.

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Bianca Marie WendBirthday: July 19, 2001

Born: Kirkland, WA

Siblings: Lily (17)

Activities and Interests:Bianca came to VBA for her senior year and was a member of the Student Action Committee. At her previous school, she was involved in various activities, clubs, and sports. A few of her activities include the following: a Varsity cheerleader, a member of Yearbook Club, and a participant in her school plays. Bianca has always maintained high marks in academics and received multiple awards for her grades such as A/B honor roll and an award for maintaining a 3.5 or higher GPA. Outside of school, Bianca has been a part of the Fort Worth Youth Orchestra where she played the viola. She has been on multiple mission trips including one to Seattle, WA, to help with food and clothing drives and one to New Orleans, LA, where she volunteered her time helping those who were still affected by Hurricane Katrina. In her free time, she enjoys hanging out with friends, watching tv, hiking, swimming, and ziplining.

Future Plans:Bianca plans to attend the University of Arkansas where she will major in Chemistry with an emphasis on Biochemistry on the pre-dental track. Her goal is to go to dental school after she completes her bachelor’s degree and eventually pursue a career as a pediatric dentist or orthodontist.

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From the Graduate:First off, I would like to thank my parents for being very supportive. They have always been there for me no matter what. Also, I want to thank my sister for being my built-in best friend! I would like to thank all my teachers at VBA for making my senior year memorable! I want to thank Mr. Jones for being so wonderful to my family and I. Lastly, I want to thank all my classmates and friends for being sweet and welcoming me into the VBA family! I could not have done it without y’all.

Favorite Scripture Verses: -Philippians 4:13- “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” I love this verse because even when I feel like I can not do something, I know that through Christ anything is possible!

-Proverbs 3:5-6- “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.” This is one of my favorite verses because it reminds me to always trust God no matter the circumstance.

-Romans 5:8-”But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet

sinners, Christ died for us.” This verse reminds me that God will always love me despite my wrong-doings.

Most important things you hope to accomplish in the next decade: In the next ten years my goals are to be a successful orthodontist, have an Australian shepherd, and own my own house.

What is a little known fact about you?A little known fact about me is that I was a preemie and born five weeks early.

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