Nine seniors proceeded across the stage at Victory Baptist Church Friday night to receive their high school diplomas. Each was part of Chilton Christian Academy’s Class of 2009.

The class consisted of William Clark, Courtney Duke, Justin Gentry, Harley Gregg, Joshua Moses, Savannah Smitherman, Kayla Webb, Kateland Williamson and Lee Woodfin.

Williamson, the class valedictorian, posed a meaningful question to her fellow graduates during the ceremony:

“If we don’t take the initiative and do something now, how will we take the initiative and do something when we are older?”

Following a challenge to the class from Alabama Attorney General Troy King, Williamson presented the Bob Jones University Benaiah Medallion to the junior class president, Summer Hall.

As Pastor Donald Jones read each senior’s name during the presentation of diplomas, he said he was especially pleased to read the name of Savannah Smitherman, who was in a severe auto accident two years ago. Smitherman was named co-salutatorian of her class.

“We have all overcome many obstacles, some big and some small,” Smitherman said in her address. “This is only the beginning.”

Co-salutatorian Joshua Moses also addressed the class.

“We are now prepared to be good citizens of our community and the world,” Moses said.

Each senior presented a rose to his or her mother during the ceremony. After the service, everyone went to the fellowship hall to congratulate the graduates and enjoy refreshments.

“We just appreciate the opportunity to work with these nine young people,” CCA Principal Charles Gottshall said. “We are glad we had the opportunity to influence them and give them a graduation ceremony they can remember.”