2025 Academic Awards Night Recognizes Student Achievements

On Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 7 p.m., the Secondary faculty and staff of First Assembly Christian School—alongside family and friends—gathered to honor students in seventh through twelve during the annual Academic Honors Awards Night.

The evening was dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the academic achievements of students in every area of study offered at FACS, including English, Foreign Languages, Mathematics, Social Studies, Fine Arts, Science, and Journalism/Communications.

Honoring Our Students

Throughout the ceremony, students crossed the stage, posed for photos, and received certificates of recognition for their hard work and dedication. Among the many highlights of the evening was the announcement of the Valedictorian and Salutatorian for the Class of 2025.

Valedictorian: Thomas Drane

Thomas Drane was honored with the Four-Year Award for the highest academic achievement in English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. With the highest cumulative GPA in his class, he was also announced as Valedictorian, the most prestigious honor a student can receive during their K–12 academic journey. Thomas was further recognized for his leadership and involvement in the Science National Honor Society.

Salutatorian: Gracie Taylor

Gracie Taylor earned the distinction of Salutatorian, having achieved the second-highest cumulative GPA in her class. She also received multiple other honor society recognitions, including accolades in Art III/IV, Bible 12, Honors Calculus, and the Science National Honor Society.

Looking Ahead: Commencement

The academic celebration will continue during the upcoming commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., held in the main sanctuary at First Assembly Memphis. Family and friends are invited to attend as we honor our graduating seniors one final time before they step into their next chapter.

Recognized Honor Societies

Students were celebrated for their involvement in several national and international honor societies, including:

• Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society

• National English Honor Society

• National Technical Honor Society

• Mu Alpha Theta National Math Honor Society

• Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica

• Science National Honor Society

• International Thespian and Junior Thespian Society

• Tri-M and Junior Music Honor Society

• National Honor Society

• National Junior Honor Society

Academic Areas Recognized

Honors were also awarded in the following areas of study:

English | Foreign Languages | Mathematics | Social Studies | Fine Arts | Science | Journalism/Communications

Honor Society Faculty Council

Special thanks to our faculty leaders who support and mentor students in their academic endeavors:

Mr. Domenic Andolina | Miss Kendall Boyd | Mrs. Dana DeLisle | Mrs. Wendy Gray | Mr. Shawn Hardiman | Mrs. Frances Miller | Mrs. Xenia O’Steen | Mrs. Carolyn Priest | Mrs. Jeannie Smeltser-Thompson | Mr. Andrew Cook

At FACS, we are proud of the bright, motivated students who continue to uphold the tradition of academic excellence. Congratulations to all of our award recipients — your hard work, dedication, and faith are shaping you to make a lasting impact for the glory of God. See full gallery below.