Class of 2017 Grads Are Newest DA Alumni

With over $6.9 million in scholarship offers, the 54 graduates from the Class of 2017 will take their places at 30 different colleges and universities this fall in 14 states.

Commencement was held Saturday, May 20 with a packed gymnasium of family, friends, and faculty supporting the school's newest graduates.

Valedictorian Talon David and salutatorian Nicollette Lyons, both headed to Belmont University with music-associated majors, addressed the group. David, who plans to major in commercial music and songwriting, wrote and performed an original piece for the occasion,

a DA commencement first.

Mason Abbott was named the David I. Huggins Award recipient. Voted on by faculty, the award is given to a senior who:

* is planning to attend a four-year college or university;

* demonstrates extraordinary commitment to following Christian principles, moral strength (in right vs. wrong), loyalty to DA, unselfish service to school, church, and community;

* ability to work effectively with others;

* scholarship and dedication to life-long learning.

Also, 12 Lifers (students who enrolled at DA in kindergarten or before) were recognized, as well as one Legacy graduate, Haley Nollner (daughter of Ronny Nollner, DA alumnus).

Former board chair Kurt Myers, and father of graduating senior Brock Myers, gave the address.

We pray God's wisdom, direction, and blessings on the Class of 2017.

"You reveal the path of life to me; in Your presence is abundant joy; in Your right hand are eternal pleasures." -- Psalm 16:11

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