By Staff
CELEBRATION Kevin Lewis, left, Skylar Waters, Josh Williams, Robert Wilson and Michael Beard sing together before the Meridian High School graduation ceremonies Friday night at Ray Stadium. The senior class had 26 graduates with highest honors and 74 with honors. Photo by Carisa McCain / Thw Meridian Star
By Steve Gillespie and Chris Whitaker / staff writers
May 25, 2002
Shea Cessna already has her future planned.
She plans to attend Meridian Community College, become a nurse anesthetist and work with cancer patients.
Cessna was one of 348 members of the Class of 2002 who received diplomas Friday night during Meridian High School graduation ceremonies. The event took place at Ray Stadium.
The senior class had five valedictorians: Cessna, Jaime Broadhead, Laura King, Leanna McLaughlin and Lauren Smith. The class also had one salutatorian, Sara Cumberland.
Cessna is the daughter of Jimmie and Kay Cessna.
Her advice to classmates was to let their motivation in life come from within. She said her desire to be a nurse is in part due to her having a family member who has cancer.
Each of the valedictorians and salutatorian plan to continue their education after high school.
Broadhead is the daughter of Dale and Susie Broadhead. She plans to attend the University of Georgia.
King is the daughter of Raymond and Carron King. She plans to attend Mississippi State University and major in microbiology.
McLaughlin is the daughter of James and Micki McLaughlin and Rose McLaughlin. She plans to attend Meridian Community College and pursue a degree in history.
Smith is the daughter of Larry and June Smith. She plans to attend Hinds Community College and the University of Southern Mississippi to pursue a degree in music.
Cumberland is the daughter of Luke and Susan Cumberland. She plans to attend Mississippi State University.