Straughn High School’s valedictorian and salutatorian will be studying similar subjects starting this fall at Troy University.

Valedictorian Gill Royals said academics have always been important to him.

“Ever since I was little, I knew that I could excel, so I looked forward to it and I knew it would take me far in life,” Royals said.

Salutatorian Andrew Hartzog said academics helped him to do the best he could.

“Academics have always been important to me because I have always wanted to be the best I can be in everything I do for the glory of God,” Hartzog said.

Royals will graduate tonight with a 4.4 grade point average, while Hartzog will finish with a 4.0.

Royals and Hartzog said their moms have helped push them toward their goals.

“She’s always been there,” Royals said. “She always knew I would do well. She always pushed me to do my best.”

Added Hartzog, “she has always been there for me through highs and lows, and she has always encouraged me to give 100 percent.”

Royals will be attending Troy on the Chancellor’s Scholarship, a HOBY Leadership Scholarship and a Sound of the South Marching Band Scholarship.

Hartzog received the Millennium Scholarship from Troy and the Alabama Conservation District Scholarship.

In high school, Hartzog was class president his junior and senior years; was a member of the National Honor Society; a DAR Good Citizen; was a member of the Student Government Association; participated in Fellowship of Christian Students and Athletes; was in the Spanish Club; the Mega Moody Math Challenge; was a member of the state champion Physics Team; and Mu Alpha Theta. Additionally, he was on the cross country, and track and field teams.

Royals was in NHS, Mu Alpha Theta, SGA, Envirobowl, Relay For Life, Biology Club and the Physics Team. Additionally, Royals attended Oak Grove Baptist Church.

Royals is the son of Jessica Reeves of Andalusia, and Timothy Royals of California.

Hartzog is the son of David and Wendy Godwin of Andalusia.