The Lord Botetourt Class of 2012  graduated 255 at the Salem Civic Center on June 6. The LBHS stage band played “Pomp and Circumstance” and the Choir sang, “I Hope You Dance ” to highlight the important evening. Of note for the grads–”cap” decorating was extremely creative this year with the LBHS Class of 2012.

The Valedictorian is Caroline Brown. She  is headed to the University of Virginia to major in Biology and plans to become a doctor. She told the assembly of parents, students,  faculty and friends that her diverse class had excelled in sports, academics and service  to others. She  reminded the students of the accomplishments  held on the front of many refrigerators.  She noted the kitchen is often the heart of a home. She used words by Miriam Williamson that are among the mementos on her family fridge. She said, “Do not fear the power of the light with in us.” She encouraged the  class to  embrace it and “let our lights shine.” Words her mother used to encourage when she had problems through out  her growing years. Salutatorian Casey Parshall, bound for Virginia Tech and Computer engineering,  implored the  graduates to be thankful to those who helped them get to the point of graduation and he was thankful by name for all those who helped him.

Seth Wilkerson, Senior class president welcomed everyone to the momentous  event and Josh Humphries lead the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance  as he did every morning in school.

Dr. Tony Brads announced that 39 students were heading into the workforce, 5 into the military, 90 to 2 year colleges and 121 to 4 year colleges. He encouraged the students to  fulfill the investment so many had made in their education by seeking success in life. “Your responsibility is to be the best you can be. make us proud. ”

Principal Janet Womack reminded the class of all they have accomplished, that she too had graduated from LBHS 22 years ago and it is their time to seek the future. After that 255 proud and hopeful young people stepped across the stage to cheers from family, friends and  classmates and opened the door to the future.