Honoring Class of 2025

By Jeff Jobe
Community Publisher

When I take a moment to think back on my own graduation many years ago, I remember so clearly the thrill of walking into the unknown.

Graduating from high school places you just steps away from freedom and on the cusp of the next big adventure.

Looking back, I should have been just a little nervous, but I had no worry whatsoever, having far more confidence at 18 years old than ever in my life. This is a blessing of youth, and I pray the class of 2025 is every bit as confident as I was. As a parent myself, I share your prayers for the safety of all our children.

Now, as the years have passed and I continue to climb the mountains into each new chapter of life, I not only think back upon my youth with fondness but also on those who helped guide me along the way.

To the teachers, bus drivers, grandparents, moms and dads who have done your work, just know that often we forget to thank those who have helped us; please let your thanks be in looking through this issue and be proud of the strong, beautiful graduates placed on our pages.

Printing the name and photo of every graduate for the 8 counties and 11 school systems we serve has been a Jobe Publishing tradition since 1998. The work and detail involved are tremendous and I am honored to know we have been able to do it every single year.

Many things have changed inside my industry, but one thing has remained strong; the combined love, pride and community support needed to make this possible. As the community publisher, I sincerely thank each school and advertiser for helping us do it.

Of course, with so many graduates each class will face challenges, hurt and sorrows and they will have to manage them just as we have ourselves. But let this issue serve as a moment in time when all of us joined together to say congratulations to the Class of 2025.