Lafayette Christian School valedictorian Emily Stringham said being heavily involved in activities and her faith motivated her the most throughout high school. 

“I was in choir, drama, the junior and senior yearbook editor, on student council, in National Honor Society and captain of the volleyball team,” Stringham said. “All these multiple activities helped grow my leadership skills and made me be a leader in a lot of ways. I have been able to lead a middle school Bible study and even mission trips. It grew my sense of initiative and made me strive to do my best in everything.”

When it came to class, Stringham found that going to Spanish class the past two years has made the greatest impact in her academics and not only because she learned how to conjugate words. 

“My biggest influence, my Spanish teacher, Mr. Taylor, taught me more Spanish that I could ever imagine,” Stringham said. “But more than that, he had so much life experience and poured wisdom into me every time I came to class. At 75-years-old, he is still so full of life and taught me to live my life to the fullest.” 

Next to her Spanish teacher, Stringham said her parents have pushed her the most in academics, sports and life. 

“They have always pushed me to do my best but would never push me beyond my limits,” Stringham said. 

“They showed me what hard work did and what you could accomplish from it, especially my mom. Me and her are very similar and she always strives to grow in her career. She has been the one that has not only pushed me to be a better student but a better person.” After four years of hard work in academics and sports, Stringham will walk across the stage Tuesday to begin the next chapter of life. She will be attending Mississippi College, where she will major in history. She also plans to complete the three-in-three law program, which cuts a year off law school and would allow her to graduate in three years. 

“I am excited to have the independence I will get in college. It has really great people and a great community,” Stringham said. “They do not just focus on academics but also making new friends. I look forward to leaving to a new place and making new relationship.” 

Stringham received over $13,000 in scholarships for her academic achievements, being valedictorian and for being a child of a full-time minister.