LORMAN, MS - Of they go with diploma in hand and opportunities ahead! On August 6, 2016, Orion High School celebrated its 5th annual graduation commencement to celebrate the achievements of Javontrics Murphy of Natchez, Derekdrel Johnson of Natchez, Earnest Mack, Jr. of Port Gibson, Jamia Claiborne of Port Gibson, and Daphine Tyler of Fayette. The commencement, held at Alcorn State University, is a celebration of success as these learners not only graduated high school, but did so from a school over 700 miles away based in Midland, Texas. By harnessing the power of digital learning and partnering with local non-profits such as Southern Dreams of Port Gibson, MS, learners are empowered by learning, and renewed in hope.

The ceremony was hosted by Mr. Melvin Anderson, representing Southern Dreams, and Dr. Joseph Gallegos, representing Orion High School. The ceremony was opened by Dr. Gregory Reed, the Assistant Director of Extension as the School of Agriculture, Research, Extension and Applied Science, where he warmly welcome the community and graduates, and reminded them that as high school graduates a number of possibilities lie before them including admission into Alcorn State University. Dr. Annie Kilcrease, retired Superintendent of Clairborne County Public School District, delivered a purposeful, resounding reminder that negativity exists just as dirt and debris do, but that we must not verbalize them or give them power over us to defeat our mission, but rather wash them off with the water of our morning shower. Dr. Jerry Komia Domatob, Professor of Mass Communication at ASU, crafted a poem dedicated to the graduates and school. 

Orion High School 

This and past commencements would not be made possible without dedicated local community members such as Melvin Anderson, the founder and owner of the non-profit Southern Dreams based in Port Gibson, MS.