By April Garon

The Natchez Democrat

NATCHEZ — Jasmine Davis will complete a goal tonight she set in pre-school— graduating as valedictorian.

The Natchez High School senior said most of the credit should be given to her parents for instilling the value of education in Davis at an early age.

“It’s always been my goal, and when it finally happened, it was so exciting,” Davis said. “It feels so great to make my parents proud.”

She rose to the top of her class, beating out approximately 200 students for the top honor. Davis said the moment she received the news that she was valedictorian she began screaming with excitement, due in part to a reward she was expecting.

“My mom said I would get a new phone if I was chosen as valedictorian,” Davis said.

Davis has been involved in a variety of organizations and activities during her time at Natchez High. She led the math club as president and was Miss Pride in the Natchez High Band her senior year. During her high school career, Davis has played the clarinet in the marching band and piano in the jazz band, and was a member of the tennis team.

Davis is an avid reader and enjoyed English and history classes. Creseda Crawford’s AP U.S. History class was Davis’ favorite class in her years at Natchez High. “It was the most challenging class I have ever taken, but the teacher made it fun,” she said.

On top of extracurricular activities, Davis is also an active member of her church, St. Paul African Methodist Church. She has served as a member of the Young People’s Division and as a secretary of the Sunday school. Davis said she wants to send a positive message of inspiration to her fellow graduates in her valedictorian speech.

“I want to tell my class that we can go anywhere and do anything, if we have faith in God and stay on the right path,” Davis said. “I encourage other students to always strive for excellence even in the face of adversity.”

She said public speaking does frighten her a bit, but Davis hopes it will be the best speech she’s ever given.

“I know my family will be there to support me, so I’m sure it won’t be that bad,” Davis said.

Her future plans include attending the University of Louisiana at Monroe to study pharmacology. She said it was an obvious choice to attend ULM.

“I can really see myself there,” Davis said. “The campus is really beautiful, and their pharmacy program made it even better.”

Davis said she wants to attend graduate school with the goal of getting her doctorate. She will use her education to reach her goal to have her own pharmaceutical franchise. Davis said she wants to help people through her business.

“In my franchise, I want to provide medications to residents of Mississippi at more affordable rates,” she said.

Davis said she is looking forward to a sense of freedom she expects after graduation.

“I can’t wait to get out on my own and meet new people,” Davis said.

Davis is the daughter of Richard and Janice Davis.

The NHS commencement ceremony will be at 7:30 p.m. today at Natchez High School in the Tom F. Williams Memorial Stadium.