Graduation 2026

Class of 2026

Celebrating 146 Graduates Across Four Catholic High Schools

Cathedral SChool NatChez

VALEDICTORIAN: AVA WALKER

GPA: 4.37 – ACT: 27

From her speech: Whether we realize it or not, a large part of our individual identities so far have come from being a Cathedral student. We’ve worn uniforms, academic and athletic, that distinguished us from other schools. Those uniforms, as we know, came with expectations – from the school itself as well as our teachers and coaches. Academically, a logo on our shirts stating “disciplina ad deum ducit” (discipline leads to God) was positioned over our hearts every day as we took notes and tests within the walls of Cathedral School, calling us to work hard in our studies and pursue knowledge with integrity. Outside its walls, athletically, each team member sported green and white jerseys with Cathedral capitalized on his or her chest. Those colors, that name – weren’t just superficial identifiers. Those colors, that name – meant that we brought the same work ethic and virtue to the field as the logo on our school uniform challenged us to in the classroom.

Church: Crosspoint Church, Natchez

Favorite service project: I loved helping with the Autism Awareness Walk because I enjoyed seeing children of all abilities come together, play and have fun just like any other kids.

Plans to attend: Samford University, Birmingham

Plans to study: Human Development and Family Science (BA), School of Education

Scholarships: Crosland Scholarship; and Stella G & Stuart Handy Memorial Scholarship

Awards/honors: Highest average in Career Development, Religion, English, and Art II

Activities: Dance Team (co-captain); Ballet; Singing on church worship team

Favorite subject: English

Yearbook quote: “Let nothing trouble you. Let nothing make you afraid, all things pass away. God never changes. Patience obtains everything. God above is enough.” – St. Teresa

SALUTATORIAN: WHITMAN DEVRIENT

GPA: 4.00 – ACT: 33 (composite)

From his speech: But here’s the thing, even if you didn’t think you would be sitting here today, the community believed you could make it here. Your parents believed, your teachers believed, and your classmates believed that you could not only make it here, but go even further. They see big things in your future.

Plans to attend: Mississippi State University, Starkville

Plans to study: Mechanical Engineering

Scholarships: Mississippi State Tuition and Housing Scholarship; STAR Student Scholarship; Bagley College of Engineering Scholarship; and Federal Pell Grant

Awards/honors: Principal’s List (2022-2025); S.A.I.N.T (sincere, admirable, inspiring, noble, and thoughtful) Award Recipient (2025); Highest Class ACT; Student Government President (2025-2026); Na-

– Number of graduates: 37

– Number attending 4-year colleges: 23

– Number attending community colleges: 12

– Number of scholarship recipients: 27

– Largest scholarship awarded: $75,824 Mississippi State Tuition and Housing Scholarship to Whitman DeVrient

– Notable next steps: Elijah Bass – entering United States Marine Corps

– Total amount of scholarships offered: $812,227.92

– Total amount of scholarships accepted: $692,227.92

– Total of service hours: 6,100 over four years

– Notable service projects: Vidalia Louisiana’s Brightest Stars Ball

– Special Honors: Craig Beesley – Dorothy Garrity Memorial Teacher Award; Devin Gammill – George and Ninette Junkin Memorial Teacher Recognition Award; Rivers Ater – Jules Michel Faculty Recognition Trust

– Mr. and Miss Cathedral: Tripp Wimberly and Olivia Navarro

tional Honor Society Class Representative (2024-2025)

Activities: Member of Student Government (20252026); Member of Key Club (2023-2025); Member of National Honors Society (20232025); Participant in Cathedral Quiz Bowl (2024-2025); Member of Cathedral Golf Team (2022-2025); and Intern at Parse AI (2025-2026)

Favorite subject: Lunch … (or also Calculus)

Yearbook quote: “They misunderestimated me” –George Bush

MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC JUNE 19, 2026

St. JoSeph MadiSoN

– Number of graduates: 58

– Number attending 4-year colleges: 44

– Number attending community colleges: 10

– Number of scholarship recipients: 36

– Largest scholarship awarded: $308,120 Scholarship from Emory University to Zaniah Purvis

– Notable next steps: Atticus Gomez – Swarthmore College, PA; Henry Turner – United States Navy, Special Forces; Colby Jones –

VALEDICTORIAN: JOHN MATTHEW WILLIAMS

GPA: 4.379 – ACT: 35

Church: St. Francis Catholic Church, Madison

Favorite service project: Volunteering for Why Not Now to help those less fortunate

Plans to attend: Mississippi State University, Starkville

Plans to study: Aerospace Engineering

– Total scholarships offered: $2,969,222

– Total scholarships accepted: $1,148,996

– Total amount of service hours: 11,474 hours over four years

– Notable service projects: Raised $18,134.23 through the BruinTHON fundraiser for UMMC Children’s Hospital.

– Special honors: STAR Teacher – Patricia Luscomb

– Mr. and Miss St. Joe: Charlie Ring and Zaniah Purvis

items for the American Cancer Society and touring their facility.

Plans to attend: Emory University

Plans to study: Biology (Pre Med Track)

Awards/honors: National Merit Commended; Student Body President; DAR Good Citizen Award; Advanced Placement Scholar; MSPA Best in Studio Anchor; MS Youth Legislature Outstanding Representative 2024; National Honor Society; Mu Alpha Theta; Science National Honor Society

Activities: BruinTHON; Madison Mayor’s Youth Council; Nightingale Youth Advocacy Team; Spirit Steppers Dance Team; Student Council

Awards/honors: National Merit Finalist; Presidential Scholar Nominee; STAR Student; HOBY Youth Leadership Program; Boys State Senator; Advanced Placement Scholar; National Honor Society; Science National Honor Society; Mu Alpha Theta; Principal’s Honor Roll; 30+ Club

MADISON – Seniors John Dean D’Antonio, Colby Jones, Henry Turner and Drew Wamble sit atop the St. Joseph Catholic School sign at the entrance to the campus, while sporting their college shirts. (Photo courtesy of school)

SALUTATORIAN: ZANIAH ROYALE PURVIS

Activities: Varsity Swim Team; Coaching Swim Team; Cross Country Team; Retreat Team; Varsity Football

Favorite subject: Engineering; AP Computer Science Principles

GPA: 4.23 – ACT: 33

Church: Word of Life Church, Jackson Metro Area

Favorite service project: Collecting

Favorite subject: AP Calculus

(St. Joseph, Madison Valedictorian and Salutatorian speeches not provided.)

4

Class of 2026

JUNE 19, 2026

(Below) “GB”

St. JoSeph GreeNville

VALEDICTORIAN:

VICTOR CURTIS BAKER

GPA: 4.2222 – ACT: 28

From his speech: I truly believe that God has guided us through every step of this journey. Without Him, none of us would be here today. So as we move forward into college, careers, or wherever life takes us – I hope we remain grateful for the opportunities we’ve been given, for the people who supported us, and for every moment that helped shape our story.

Church: St. Joseph Catholic Church, Greenville

Favorite service project: My favorite service project was working on a canned food drive for St. Vincent de Paul. This project humbled me by seeing the poorest part of the state and the many people in need. It was great to talk to these people and make their day as we gave them food and clothing.

Plans to attend: Mississippi State University, Starkville

Plans to study: Veterinary Medicine

Scholarships: Mississippi State University Freshman Academic Excellence Scholarship; STAR Student Scholarship; Mississippi Boys State Scholarship; Lucky Day Scholars Program; Washington County Mississippi State University Alumni Scholarship; First Mid Delta Corvette Club Scholarship; Schelben Trust Scholarship; Valedictorian Scholarship

Awards/honors: National Honors Society; Mu Alpha Theta; Raymond Faulkner Award; Sandra Mc-

– Number of graduates: 20

– Number of students attending 4-year colleges: 13

– Number of students attending community colleges: 6

– Number of scholarship recipients: 16

– Largest scholarship awarded: $64,000 Scholarship from Xavier University of Louisiana to Kennedy Richardson

– Total amount of scholarships offered: $1,623,142

– Total amount of scholarships accepted: $351,000

– Total amount of service hours: 1,708.5

– Notable Service Projects: Rise Against Hunger; St. Vincent de Paul; National Honor Society delivered Christmas gifts at Mississippi Care Center of Greenville

– Special honors: STAR teacher – Mr. Brian Speck

– Mr. and Miss St. Joe: Victor Baker and Kennedy Richardson

gaugh Award; Woodman of the World; STAR Student; Farm Bureau Ag Art Contest Winner; 2026 Mr. St Joe (Hall of Fame); Most Athletic – class award; Mississippi Scholars Award; Christian Character Award, Boys State, HOBY, Rotary Youth Leadership Award; MAIS Football State Champion (2022 and 2023); 2023, 2024 MAIS Futures All star Game (2023 and 2024); MAIS All Star Game (2025); MAIS Soccer All Star (2026); Brandon Burlsworth Character Award; and over 40 Highest Average class/subject awards

Activities: Senior Class President; Football; Basketball; Soccer; Track; Archery; Golf

Favorite subject: History

Yearbook quote: “I have 6-7 years left of school before I have to do this again”

SALUTATORIAN:

GABRIEL ANGAD THEUNISSEN

GPA: 4.2162 – ACT: 27

From his speech: As you leave this well-oiled machine that we know as our alma mater, remember the valuable lessons that you have learned within. Carry with you the teachings, principles, ethics, and virtues that have been instilled within you. As you move on to the next chapter of your life, do not be afraid to face difficulties, challenges, or problems, for you are rooted in the One who is above all things: that is, God. When you face the fires of your next chapter, know that you can extinguish them with God on your side. Let us go forth into our graduation ceremony knowing Immanuel, which is Hebrew for “God is with us.”

Church: St. Joseph Catholic Church, Greenville

Favorite service project: My favorite project was assisting with our local St. Vincent de Paul Society. I truly enjoyed helping those in my community and being a friend to those who need it the most.

Plans to attend: Mississippi State University, Starkville

Plans to study: Agricultural Engineering

Scholarships: Mississippi State University Freshman Academic Excellence Scholarship; Mississippi State University Student Body President Scholarship; Mississippi Boys State Scholarship; Promise Scholarship; Melio Sandroni Scholarship; Philip Oxner Scholarship; Woodman Life Focus Scholarship; Hugh M. Arant Scholarship; Thomas H. Scott Scholarship; Washington County Mississippi State University Alumni Scholarship; Washington County Farm Bureau Federation Scholarship; Greenville Knights of Columbus Scholarship

Awards/honors: Bishop Chance Youth Award; Monsignor Martin Moloney Award; Knights of Columbus Award; Boy’s State participant; Mississippi Scholars award; Principal’s Award; Mu Alpha Theta; and Principal’s List/Distinguished Honor Roll

Activities: Head Football and Basketball Manager; Head Sound Tech at school; Master of Ceremonies and Lector at St. Joseph Church; Student Government President; and Elderly Care

Favorite subject: Physics and Religion

Yearbook quote: “Have no fear of moving into the unknown. Simply step out fearlessly, knowing that He is with you. Therefore, no harm can befall you.”

St. aloySiuS viCkSburG

– Number of graduates: 31

– Number of students attending 4-year colleges: 28

– Number of students attending community colleges: 3

– Number of scholarship recipients: 24

– Largest scholarship awarded: $500,000 from Seton Hall University to William Roberson

– Total amount of scholarships accepted: $2,100,000

VALEDICTORIAN:

ELIZABETH PAULA BEDNAR

GPA: 4.63 – ACT: 35

From her speech: Start a conversation with a classmate you know the name of but not the first thing about. Give each other grace and forgiveness as you navigate the twists and turns and trials and tribulations of life. Be patient with and kind to each other as you and your classmates try to decipher your passions, vocations, careers, goals, and dreams.

Invite everyone to the events you host. Take a picture with the person you don’t know that well. Make memories with everyone, not just your closest friends. Reach out to those who you know are going through a rough time. Don’t let grudges and petty arguments get in the way of your friendships.

– Notable next steps: Rio Grande Community College (farthest)

– Total amount of service hours: 19,624

– Notable service projects: Community Storehouse Food Pantry; Senior Buddy Program; Special Olympics Basketball Tournament; Meals on Wheels; and United Way Supper on the Sip.

– Special Honors: Elizabeth Bednar is only one of two in the diocese to be honored as a National Merit Scholar. STAR Teacher

– Brian Blanch

– Mr. and Miss St. Al: Sadler Lambiotte and Taryn Lusby

Church: St. Michael Catholic Church, Vicksburg

Favorite service project: My favorite service project was doing activities with our senior buddies because it reminded me of when I was in kindergarten.

Plans to attend: Mississippi State University, Starkville

Plans to study: Particle Physics

Awards/honors: STAR student; National Merit Scholar; St. Aloysius Young Leaders Award; Bausch and Lomb Science Award; Bishop Chanche Youth Award; ERDC Alumni Scholarship

couldn’t be prouder. Continue walking in the footsteps you have created, on a path with God as your mentor. Continue to pursue your dreams, and remember, if the stress gets to you, just breathe and know it is going to be okay. Each of you are going to do great things.

Church: St. Paul Catholic Church, Vicksburg

Favorite service project: Operation Christmas Child Shoebox is a favorite project of mine because it is a great way to share the Gospel.

Love each other like God would. These are the people you’ll dance with at homecoming and prom. These are the people you’ll cheer for at countless senior nights. These are the people you’ll find God with on senior retreat. These are the people you’ll become the best version of yourselves alongside. Cherish them. Support them. Include them. Love them. I know my class is an amazing class, filled with leaders, scholars, athletes, role models, and friends, but it’s not our individual accomplishments that make our class so amazing and noteworthy – it’s our love for each other.

Activities: Flashettes Dance Team; Academic Quiz Bowl (team captain); Key Club; Choir; Math and Science Team

Favorite subject: Physics

Yearbook quote: “There’s as many atoms in a single molecule of DNA as there are stars in the typical galaxy. We are, each of us, a little universe.” – Neil deGrasse Tyson

SALUTATORIAN:

KINLEY MADGE LOTT

GPA: 4.60 – ACT: 30

From her speech: Congratulations Class of 2026. We made it to the day we have all dreamed of. Every single one of us will be walking across this stage today and I

Plans to attend: Mississippi State University, Starkville

Plans to study: Biochemistry

Awards/honors: All-American and All-Star Cheerleader; and Christian Living Scholarship Finalist

Activities: Cheer; Key Club; National Honor Society; Mu Alpha Theta; Diamond Girls; Retreat Team; Liturgical Team; Chick-fil-a Leadership

Favorite subject: Math

Yearbook quote: “Just hold on, just breathe, the world is hard on beautiful things.” – Megan Moroney

CoNGratulatioNS to the ClaSS oF 2026

“

As the Class of 2026 takes the next step on its journey, may each graduate remain rooted in Christ, guided by wisdom and inspired to use their gi s to make a di erence in the world. Congratulations, graduates. We are proud of all you have accomplished and excited for all that lies ahead.

— Joni House, Executive Director of Catholic Education

ClaSS oF 2026 – by the NuMberS

108 Attending Four-Year Colleges 31 Attending Community Colleges

$6.16 Million Scholarships Offered

$5.21 Million Scholarships Accepted

Joseph Aaden Anthony

Anderson Peeples Barrett

Iliana Mackenzie Blount

Lauryn Michele Blue Rowan James Buck

Kathryn Elizabeth Callegan

Matthew Wu Di Cassreino

Adrienne Simone Chandler

omas Reagan Coleman

Chase Braxton Cox

McKenzie Lee Cummings

Spencer Nolan Curtis

John Dean D’Antonio

Steele Goodwin Davis

Alexa Nicole Donaldson

Chamblee Elizabeth Ezelle

William ierry Freeman

Jack Edward Frost

Miguel Alejandro Galvan

Kristopher John Gaylor

London Alexander Glass

Atticus Emanuel Gomez

Christopher Hancesom Gordon

Reid Gabriel Hager

Jhayce Dejung Harris

Sawyer Reed Helms

Alexander Julian Hood

Daniel Newland Inman

Colby Michael Jones

Jordin Lorraine Keyes

Katherine Elizabeth Lancaster

Gypsy Damiana Macias

Brian Gerardo Maldonado

Lily Marie Malouf

Jada Korin Myers

Abigail Elizabeth Myles

Emma Claire Newell

Clarence Anchang Ngong

Branson Kincaid Payne

Clarence Cullam Pope, IV

Zaniah Royal Purvis

Talia Benét Ramos

Lily Claire Ratcli e

Charles O’Neill Ring, III

Sadie Grace Rogers

Eliza Kate Rowlett

Marlei Renaye Shepherd

JoEllen Suzanne Talley

Robert Henry Turner

Nathan Gabriel Vuelban

Ashton Myles Walker

Andrew Wayne Wamble, Jr.

MaKenzie DeAnna Ward

Matthew Dominic Weisenberger

Calese Cymone White

John Matthew Williams

Len Byrd Williams, III

Mykal Michele Williams

38,906 Service hours completed over 4 Years of High School

Elijah Earl Bass

Ally Elizabeth Blanton

Joshua Paul Britt

Bodi Haze Brum eld

Christian Reid Burkley

Tralyn Esau Cusic

Emma Manette Dawkins

Whitman Orrin DeVrient

Houston Davis Edwards

Tristan Ries Fondren

Barrett Prentiss Foster

Mollie Katherine Foster

Grayson Douglas Gay

Presley Ann Gregg

Austin Lee Hoggatt

Sadie Analiese Holland

Taylor Rayne Horton

Amani Savannah Ishman

Amaya Sheyenne Ishman

Addison Kimberly Johnson

Faith Anne Johnson

Ava Marie Jones

Douglas Owen Jordan II

Lynlee Claire Kingsafer

Terrance Lamont Lee

Rachel Maria Misita

Olivia Gracie Navarro

Adam Walker Probst

Molly Reese Shirley

Elizabeth Eloise Skates

Brittany Carolann Smith

Ja’Shaun Marshall Smoot

Jack Henry Stubbs

Bailey Grace Waggoner

Ava Kate Walker

Katherine Ruby Whitman

Michael Randolph Wimberly, III

Victor Curtis Baker

Jalandrea Simone Baldwin

Aniya Danielle Evans

Ronnie Allen Evans, Jr.

Javan Keandre Goins

Sarai Hernandez

Schyla C. Johnson

Kelsey Gabrielle Marroquin

Keviney Lanette Matthews

Ka’Darius Ty’Quan McClure

Jayden Marquee Moore

Tyler Jamal Mosby

Jamiya Jamese Phinisee

Kennedy A. Richardson

Emmanuel Dewayne Scott

Gabriel Angad eunissen

Jionni Marie omas

Leslie Grabriella Vallejo

Kennedi Danyale Williams

Tyler Monte Young

Elizabeth Paula Bednar

Hayden Margaret Bell

James Emerson Blackburn

Dinah Ruth Britton

Robert Beauman Brogdon

Garrod Deron Maurice Bunch

Matthew Joseph Busby

McKenzie Leigh Cameron

Malachi Clayton Cox

Je rey Holden Davidson

Carson Dion Gleese

Crawley Woods Haller

Carson Rhea Henderson

Carter Bradley Henderson

Mallory Louise Hobson

Jada Kalilah Joyce Hogan

Caleb Harris Jones

Sadler Fine Lambiotte

Olivia Rose Larsen

James Edward Lee

Robert Douglas Lee

Briley Jean Lott

Kinley Madge Lott

Tayrn Miles Lusby

Allen Slade Lyons

Melanie Nunez

Clay Louis Pierce

Mary Farrell Roberson

William Mclendon Roberson

Pierson Rawls Smith

Alan Brian Stauts