ATA College Prep is a unique learning environment that produces extraordinary results and this year’s ceremony and graduating class were no exceptions. Bailey Forgus will attend the University of Chicago; Callie Creath will attend the University of Tennessee, and James Burdick will attend Babson College.  

Years of dedication, discipline and a great deal of heart have opened these doors for these young graduates.  A new tradition began this year with the ceremony taking place under a tent on court 3. Having graduation on campus where the graduates have grown up allows friends and family members to better understand the ATA College Prep experience.

The ceremony consisted of commemorative videos chronicling each graduate’s development and highlighting memorable moments, followed by a special mentor selected to speak on their behalf, and then each graduate addressed the community, honoring those that contributed to making this moment possible.  

ATA College Prep Humanities Lead, Tommy Collins gave the keynote address and sent our graduates off with a powerful parting message:

“By coming to CP, and signing on to the universities where you are headed, you are committing to a life of discernment, of critical thinking, and of engagement. ​Valuing and living by those attributes are often incongruous with the world around you. “

After receiving their diplomas and moving their tassels to the left, in traditional form, the graduates pass down the responsibility of leadership and mentorship to the rising seniors, symbolically represented by the passing of the ATA ball.

Prior to the graduation ceremony, guests enjoyed the ATACP Annual Art Exhibit, featuring creative artwork created by students throughout the year.  

“It’s always so gratifying to see the students’ work all framed and hung on the wall—you might say that a piece of art isn’t truly finished until it’s on display, being shared with others.” – Shaela Rutherford, CP art instuctor.

For more photos capturing this special event, visit the ATA College Prep Facebook and Instagram pages.

Thank you to the entire community for celebrating and being part of this  memorable evening honoring Bailey, Callie and James!