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Andalusia High School held graduation for the senior class of 2022 Friday night and was led by Marion Starnes as the valedictorian and Trevor Hayes as the salutatorian.

Starnes is the daughter of Van and Lynn Starnes with a sister, Maecy Starnes. Hayes is the son of Harrison and Gail Hayes.

“I am extremely honored to be able to represent the Class of 2022. This is a great group of seniors, and I know we will continue to strive for excellence in our future endeavors,” Starnes said. “It is a great honor and privilege to be the salutatorian of my senior class. I hope that I can accurately represent the best qualities of both my class and community,” Hayes said.

Starnes plans to attend Auburn University and pursue a degree in Pre-Dentistry. “I have always been interested in the medical field. After dental school, I will be working toward being an orthodontist. This career just seemed like a good fit for me.”

Hayes also has plans to enroll at Auburn University and major in Chemical Engineering with a path to Pre-Med. “I chose this major because it will be a good backup plan if med school doesn’t work out.”

This year’s valedictorian and salutatorian were honored to attend Andalusia High School.

“I really enjoyed the camaraderie and school spirit we all shared. At every sports game or event, we always had the loudest cheering fans. Go Bulldogs! I will definitely miss all of the amazing teachers that helped me get to where I am today. I am so thankful for all of their hard work and dedication,” Starnes said.

“The most enjoyable part of being a student at AHS was participating in the band and spending time with my classmates. I will miss my friends and peers as well as the teachers that were always willing to help us,” Hayes said.

Both are looking forward to the real world and beginning a new chapter of their lives.

“I am just excited to move on to something new. While I enjoyed high school, a change in routine will be refreshing, and I cannot wait to make new friends,” Starnes said.

“I am looking forward to independence as well as experiencing different environments,” Hayes said.

They agree education will still be a part of their lives in the next five to 10 years. “Because of my chosen career, I will still be in school somewhere,” Starnes said. “I see myself studying in medical school,” Hayes added.