Spreading their wings: Uniontown High hands diplomas to 36 graduates in Tuesday ceremonies

Michael Glover/Tribune photo Uniontown senior Riley Stephens smiles after receiving her dipolma from UHS principal Tracy Smith during graduation ceremonies Tuesday night at Uniontown. Stephens and 35 of her classmates graduated in ceremonies held at the West Bourbon Elementary School gymnasium.

UNIONTOWN -- Thirty-six students obtained their high school diplomas Tuesday in front of their family and friends that packed the West Bourbon Elementary Gymnasium.

Usually, there is a valedictorian and a salutatorian. But the class of 2008 had three salutatorians, Silas Bloesser, Karlee Daylong and Luke Spainhoward, and a valedictorian, Kelsey Welch. All four gave a brief address to their classmates and crowd.

"After this, we're kinda going to get shotgun scattered everywhere. Stay in touch everybody," Bloesser said.

Spainhoward said he will "really miss" the school and community, but also his classmates. "For my classmates, I couldn't be more proud of you guys."

The graduating class showed a slideshow presentation of pictures from their time at Uniontown High School.

"I congratulate the class of 2008 and also wish you the best as you move into another developmental phase of your life," said USD 235 superintendent Randy Rockhold said. "You, the class of 2008, have proven to have great drive...and you've been very successful.

"I encourage you to pursue greatness. Our country really needs talented people like you. Take the needs of others seriously. Strive to serve others. And strive to care for and provide for those who are less fortunate."

The graduates include Brandon Aumann, Diana Ayers, Charmaine Bradbury, Shane Bradbury, Kimi Brooks, Jullea Decker, Kiersten Elder, Brendan Feely, Bayley Gray, Shayla Gregg, Travis Hixon, Justin Hueston, Danica Huff, Jesse Johnston, James Keppen, Amber Kuns, Zachary Mason, Clinton McAnulty, Jessica McKamey,Tamera Merriman, Kara Mumbower, Lacey Page, George Pillion III, Shawn Pritchett, Jamie Shank, Jaime Shelton, Riley Stephens, Levi Stewart, Alison Warren, Kelsey Welch, Dennis White, Roxanne Wilkinson and Ryan E. Kraft.