Get to know Westmoreland High's valedictorian and salutatorian 2023 class
Westmoreland High School graduated 107 students in the class of 2023, which included 42% who competed in athletics for the Eagles.
The school's valedictorian and salutatorian were among the school's athletes. We asked both several questions.
Valedictorian
Cailey Coates
College or career plans: To attend University of Tennessee-Chattanooga to study business finance.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome during high school? "Learning how to study. School has always been a strong suit for me, so when I got to the tougher classes later on, it took some time for me to figure out the most effective study method for myself."
Are you looking forward to speaking at graduation (asked prior to graduation)? Why or why not? "No, I am incredibly nervous to go on stage. I’m not a fan of public speaking and I know the stands will be filled at graduation."
Extra-curricular activities and outside interests: Part of the Westmoreland basketball team and volleyball teams, student council, Beta club and science club. Hiking, animals, and traveling with family.
A person who influenced you during high school: Coach, E.J. Perry. "Playing basketball for him was very demanding, but it taught me life lessons, like always being on time and sportsmanship, which I will use for the rest of my life."
Favorite restaurant, musical artist, TV show. Koi in Gallatin, "probably" Taylor Swift and "One Tree Hill."
Salutatorian
Brycen Eli Pardue
College or career plans: To attend Middle Tennessee State University and major in audio production.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome during high school? "Ending my freshman year early due to COVID-19 and facing the many restrictions and challenges that came along with it my sophomore year. Zoom meetings and online coursework made honors classes even more difficult."
Extra-curricular activities and outside interests: Varsity basketball and varsity soccer, cross country, Beta Club, Science Club, and Future Farmers of America. Enjoys listening and creating music, playing the drums, and serving in church.
A person who influenced you during high school: "The teacher who influenced my the most during high school was Mrs. Lanita Copas. She taught two of my honors science courses. Not only did she make science interesting and fun, but she also taught me some important life lessons. She cares about her students and celebrates their accomplishments. Her classroom was always a welcoming learning environment, and she was an approachable teacher."
Favorite restaurant, musical artist, TV show. McGuire's Irish Pub in Pensacola, Florida, Twenty One Pilots and "Friends."
Reach Andy Humbles at ahumbles@tennessean.com or 615-726-5939 and on Twitter @ AndyHumbles.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Get to know Westmoreland High's 2023 valedictorian and salutatorian
