Union High holds graduation

Union High School’s 2021 graduation ceremony was held May 13 with 72 students receiving diplomas.

More than 600 people turned out to the Neshoba County Coliseum. 

The Valedictorian was Greg Palculict, son of Greg and Becky Palculict, and Lori Lofton.

In his valedictory speech, Palculict encouraged his fellow students to rise to the occasion. 

“The future is our most awesome and petrifying responsibility,” Palculict said. “The future we create after we leave here today is the one thing we will always share.”

Palculict said the effort to become the class valedictorian was more enjoyable than having obtained the goal.

“Trying to get there is the fun part, the part that you really feel,” Palculict said. “After you get it you really don’t care as much. …I’m glad I went to Union,” Palculict said. “It is a really good school.”

Palculict said he plans to attend the University of Mississippi in the fall and pursue a degree in history. He hopes to become a history professor in the future.

Salutatorian was Autumn Payne, daughter of Kevin and Anne Payne.

“It feels wonderful,” Payne said of graduating. “I’m so excited about all the stuff I have coming up.”

Payne said she has accepted a full scholarship to the honors college at the University of Mississippi to study film and she will be a member of the marching band.

She said she hopes to one day write direct and create theatrical films dealing with social justice subject matter.

For her salutatorian speech, Payne read a poem she wrote. Following are the ending stanzas:

“So as we say our final goodbye

“And throw our caps into the sky

“As you set out to find who you’re meant to be

“I wish you all luck on your amazing journey.”