Pamlico High grads ready to face 'changing world'

BAYBORO - Pamlico County High's valedictorian told her classmates Tuesday night that they need to focus on potential as they leave the school for "a changing world."

Jenna Mercer, the valedictorian, and many of the school's 141 graduates said they have mixed emotions about that change. Mercer, who lives in Alliance, quoted Ecclesiastes 3, a Bible verse that says there's a time for everything, including change.

"We could see the first African-American or woman president," she said. "We could also see the first woman governor in our state. We've also seen a rise in terrorism and oil prices. The Class of 2008 has witnessed a changing world. As we leave PCHS tonight, we need to focus on our potential, not just our limitations."

As a line of family and friends filed into A.H. Hatsell Auditorium for the 8 p.m. commencement ceremony, graduates adjusted their caps and gowns.

Alton Gibbs said he spent his Tuesday in Greenville buying a new shirt, pants and tie for the ceremony. As Gibbs, who lives in New Bern, prepared to put his cap on his head, he said he would be nervous during the ceremony. His mom, dad, sister, niece, nephew and aunts were there to watch him graduate.

"Words cannot express," he said. "I feel free. Thank God I made it this far."

Gibbs will study criminal justice this fall at Wingate University in Monroe.

 Chelsie Morris of Mesic will study physical education at Pitt Community College in Greenville. She said she spent her day getting her nails done at Lee Nails in New Bern.

Joshua Skinner of Aurora and Gil Gable of New Bern said they relaxed before the ceremony by playing video games. Gable will study special education this fall at Craven Community College. Skinner will join the Army National Guard in September.

"I'm very excited and downfallen," Skinner said. "I've had so many great things happen here."

Screams and applause filled the auditorium before the graduates marched in and after they received their diplomas. Tom Marsh told the class they have handled change well since he became principal two years ago.

"And there's been a lot of change here," Marsh said. "This class really took a leadership role. There could have been a lot of sandspurs, but there weren't. You're a great class."

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