Cougar Graduation Ceremony Held at Mountain Gateway By Jennifer Bailey Staff Writer Clifton Forge, VA (May 30, 2025)— This evening, the Alleghany High School (AHS) graduation ceremony was held at Mountain Gateway Community College following weather conditions anticipating rain. The two main differences of having the ceremony indoors were lack of space and the absences of the Cougar band and choir, both of whom were initially expected to perform at the ceremony. Among tonight's speakers were Kim Halterman, Alleghany Highlands Public Schools (AHPS) Superintendent; Derek Cantrell, AHS Principal; John Littleton, chair on Alleghany Highlands School Board; Deputy Scott Dudding, School Resource Officer (SRO); Keegan Ark Morris, Salutatorian; Daphne Livesay, Virtual Learning Supervisor; Kinlee Elizabeth Huffman, Valedictorian; and Eagle Scout James Helmintoller-Quantz who did the Pledge of Allegiance. For the most part, the ceremony progressed as expected with one major exception: A woman —who appeared to be seated on one of the back rows— appeared to faint just as the graduates were about to receive their diplomas. Despite leaving in a stretcher, the woman was alert and conscious upon her departure. We have no news on her current condition, nor do we expect to obtain any. However, it appeared to us that a full recovery was in her future. Upon her departure, senior Gavin Via boldly walked on stage and spoke into the microphone, asking everyone to bow their heads so he could pray over the woman. It was at that moment when this writer was especially thankful to live in a small town where everyone cares and there's no such thing as strangers. Following Via's prayer, the ceremony continued with each senior receiving their diplomas. The Journal will have much more on the AHS graduation coming soon —including numerous photos and video clips— on our Alleghany Journal Facebook page and YouTube channel.

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