Sherwood Christian Academy graduates 37

ALBANY — Sherwood Christian Academy graduated 37 seniors Friday evening, eight of whom will attend college on athletic scholarships.

“There is a lot of incredible talent in this class of 2015,” Sherwood Headmaster Brian Dougherty said. ” Nine have been together for 13 years here, 40 percent of the class are honors graduates, another eight have made mission trips and the entire class has accumulated more that 10,000 of combined community service — not including the mission work.

“This group will leave behind a lasting legacy of leadership, service and success.”

Another legacy is one of athletic prowess. More than 20 percent of the class inked athletic scholarships.

Briana Collins will play volleyball at the University of Mobile this fall.

“I’ve had an incredible time here (SCA) but it’s time to close one chapter of my life and open another,” she said.

Collins plans to major in psychology.

Key’ada Thomas, who will play basketball for Truett-McConnell College in the fall, said, “My experience here has been amazing, much better than I expected and much better than at public school.”

Thomas plans to major in criminal justice.

Gregory Elder also will attend Truett-MConnell. He will be on a baseball scholarship.

“My experience here has been filled with learning how to get closer to Christ,” he said.

Elder plans to study pre-med or physical therapy.

Chris Hudson will play football at Greensboro (N.C.) College this fall, where he plans to major in criminal justice.

Katelyn Cuff will attend Brewton-Parker College on a soccer scholarship.

“My time here has helped me with my walk with Christ, and I can’t imagine graduating anywhere else,” she said.

Cuff plans to attend dental school.

Kenney Brown, who will attend St. Francis (Pa.) University on a football scholarship, said, “It’s been a long, but fun journey.” Brown plans to major in petroleum engineering.

Hannah King will attend Covenant College on a soccer scholarship. “Without Sherwood I would not be as mature in my walk with Christ,” she said, adding she will major in interdisciplinary studies at Covenant.

King also was the salutatorian for Friday’s commencement.

Jordyn Paramore, who has spent 13 years at SCA, will play soccer this fall at Truett-McConnell.

“My time here has meant the world to me,” she said. “I would not be where I am in the spirit otherwise.”

She plans to major in exercise science in college.

Ellie Holt delivered the commencement’s valedictory address.