Ten years from now, Cojuana Eastling (left) plans to be a nurse practioner, and Shanita Griffin will be a chef.

Seniors preparing for their final act as a student – graduation – at Lloyd C. Bird High School were busy with their last assignment, writing where they would be in 10 years, when their time capsule will be opened at their 10-year class reunion.  Graduating last Thursday at the Siegel Center’s Alltel Pavilion, Bird’s Class of 2008 contained 417 students made up of graduates with more college credits and advanced placements than ever before. Tschuna Aimee Gibson, Engineering Peer-elected Speaker, addressed her fellow classmates, telling them to “blaze your own trail, follow your own destiny, and don’t be afraid to turn the page.”

Dr. Wayne J. Mancari was the keynote speaker during the Skyhawks’ 29th commencement exercises.  Full of life and dynamic as ever, the long-time friend of the school spoke about the core values of Chesterfield County Schools and how he was involved with the development of them when the graduating seniors were in kindergarten. Grabbing their attention and participation with props and hit songs the seniors may be familiar with, Mancari brought home the message and importance of the four core values: respect, responsibility, honesty, and accountability.

Also sending greetings were Dr. Marcus Newsom, superintendent of Chesterfield County Schools; David Wyman, school board member; and Supervisor James Holland.

Bird’s valedictorian was Calvin Leroy Layne and salutatorian was Vincent Henry Michels.
Beth Teigen, principal, assisted by Lisa Harrison, presented the Faculty Service Award to Tschuna Aimee Gibson.  The Faculty Scholarship was award to Christine Renee Beavers; the Outstanding Senior Award was presented to Kamara Teshea Horton; and the Mildred P. Spencer scholarship was awarded to Ryan Thomas Benz.

lfausz@villagepublishing.com | 751-0421

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