Blue Ridge High School’s class of 2026 graduated on Thursday afternoon.
Graduates, families and Greenville County Schools officials filled the Bon Secours Wellness Arena on May 21. Blue Ridge Principal Ashley Wardlaw spoke to the graduates, highlighting the special bonds they created throughout their four years.
“A tiger is not just something you are for four years — it’s something you carry for a lifetime,” Wardlaw said. “... Together, you represent generations of tigers. Each one helps to build a legacy of [Blue Ridge] and carry its spirit into the world.”
Wardlaw says this year’s graduating class was particularly special to her, having been ninth graders during her first year as principal. In the past four years, Blue Ridge High School has been recognized at the state level multiple times, including being named a 2025-2026 Palmetto’s Finest School.
Student body president Emeree Few noted Wardlaw’s school improvement efforts as an inspiration to students. Specifically, she talked about the creation of “Ridge Nation” — an initiative started by Wardlaw that encourages community building between Blue Ridge and its feeder schools.
“Through my time as president, I learned something that stays with me. If opportunity doesn't present itself, it is up to us to create it,” Few said. “As we go our separate ways and step into new beginnings, I will always be grateful that our paths crossed here.”
Two students who would have graduated on Thursday were also recognized in the ceremony: Skylar and RJ. Skylar died in 2016, and RJ in 2025.
“They both shaped us in ways that words could never fully explain,” said senior class president Kyrah Lathen. “They taught us to love harder, laugh a little louder and lead each day with a purpose.”
Blue Ridge High School’s class of 2026 salutatorian, Katelyn Cox, spoke to her peers on the message of adversity. She notes this class as one that has been through several hardships, including the losses of classmates and the 2020 pandemic.
“Although these challenges have been difficult to overcome, I believe they have taught us many lessons of strength and perseverance, as well as the importance of community,” Cox said. “As we begin to move forward into this next season of life, there's no doubt that we will face hardships, but I believe that there is power in this test.”
Class valedictorian Elizabeth Clarke echoed Cox’s message, encouraging her fellow graduates to step into their futures with contentment, regardless of challenges.
“To be successful means to be happy. If we are content with the life that we have, then we are successful,” Clarke said. “... Life gets hard, but we can't let hard times define who we are.”
To watch a recording of the Blue Ridge High School class of 2026 graduation ceremony, visit https://www.youtube.com/live/W5ip-GlP8J4?feature=share.
