Thomas Jefferson Academy holds commencement ceremony

Thomas Jefferson Academy celebrated the graduating class of 2023 in commencement ceremonies held May 12 on the school’s Wayne Battle Football Field in Louisville.

The valedictorian of the class is Mary Dalton Dowdy, daughter of Dalton and Amber Dowdy of Wrens.

Dowdy served as class president all four years of high school, president of the school’s Key Club and was active on the literary team, one act play, in varsity cheer and basketball.

“When I was in ninth grade, I made it a goal to become the valedictorian of my class,” Dowdy said. “I am very intrinsically motivated, so I worked to make this dream a reality. My parents place a high value on education; they set clear expectations for me, but I wanted to go above and beyond what was expected.”

She attends Stevens Creek Church, volunteers at the food pantry and Ogeechee Behavioral Health Center and works as a nanny. When not working on her academics, Dowdy enjoys traveling, trying new foods, concerts and fashion.

Dowdy said that many people have supported and encouraged her throughout her years at TJA, but added that the assistant head of school Cathy Tiner stands out among them.

"Whether it’s help with scholarship applications or just advice about life, I go to her for everything and could not be where I am today without her,” Dowdy said. “I’ve known her my entire life, so she understands what I’m capable of and pushes me to reach my maximum potential.”

Dowdy said that what stands out most about her education at TJA is the family atmosphere and close personal connections she has built attending the same school since she was 4-years-old.

“My advice for any student who wants to be successful would be to learn good time management,” Dowdy said. “I am by no means the smartest person in my class, but I have excellent work ethic and time management skills. I would also advise them to ask for help when needed. Our teachers at TJA will help in any way possible if you just ask!”

After graduation she plans to attend the University of Georgia and attain a degree in fashion merchandising or communications.

The school’s 2023 salutatorian is Carson Davis, son of Mark and Wendy Davis of Louisville.

In addition to being named the county’s STAR Student, Davis has been active in TJA’s football, baseball, Beta Club, Key Club, one act play and literary competitions.

He is an active member of Louisville Methodist Church, Youth Representative for Church Administrative Council and took part in Youth Leadership Jefferson County.

"I always try to do the best I can in everything I attempt, so I strove to do my best with academics,” Davis said. “My parents, friends, and teachers have supported me throughout my time at TJA. Whether it be kind words or actions that directly impact me, the help and support from the important people in my life played a vital role in my time at TJ.”

Davis said that he highly values the relationships he has built with his teachers and he always knew they would do their best to help him in any way they could.

“For others who want to succeed, make sure to rely on the people around you,” Davis said. “The help from people around me has been an important part of my ability to succeed.”

After graduation, he plans to attend Mercer University in pursuit of becoming a Biomedical Engineer.

This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Thomas Jefferson Academy holds commencement ceremony