LA GRANGE - Members of North Lenoir High School's Class of 2009 streamed into Lenoir Community College Friday night to celebrate their graduation.

The ceremony marked the end of North Lenoir senior Ethan Yelverton's high school career. Yelverton was among the 204 graduates who accepted their diplomas at LCC's Sportatorium.

"My time at North Lenoir went by fast," Yelverton said. "I know that I will not see my classmates for the next few years."

Yelverton will attend Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Va., during the fall where he will study chemistry. He accepted a scholarship valued at $180,000 to attend the institution.

"I wanted to leave Lenoir County and explore Tech," Yelverton said. "It's the best fit for me."

Yelverton had several colleges to choose from, including East Carolina University and the University of North Carolina. He was also nominated to attend the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md.

The scholarship allows Yelverton to join the Navy ROTC unit at Virginia Tech. After he graduates from Virginia Tech, Yelverton will be required to serve eight years in the U.S. Navy.

"I want to make the military a career," Yelverton said.

North Lenoir Principal Brent Williams congratulated the school's Class of 2009. This year marked Williams' first full year at North Lenoir.

"I am proud of all of our students," Williams said. "I am excited to help them celebrate this milestone."

North Lenoir's keynote graduation speaker was Anthony Coley. Coley - a La Grange native and 1996 North Lenoir graduate - encouraged the graduating seniors to strive for success.

He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Morehouse College. He also earned a Master of Arts in Legislative Affairs from George Washington University Graduate School of Political Management.

Coley currently serves as the communications director to U.S. Sen. Edward Kennedy, D-Mass.

Chris Lavender can be reached at (252) 559-1078 or clavender@freedomenc.com.

North Lenoir High School Class of 2009

204 graduates

Valedictorian - Ryan Kramer

Salutatorian - Meredith Smith

$1.1 million scholarship funds earned

Keynote speaker - North Lenoir 1996 graduate Anthony Coley