Jordan, Brooks to lead Robbinsville Class of 2021
Robbinsville – When the Class of 2021 walks across the stage on Sunday, it will be led by two longtime best friends.
Carrying with them a list of impressive accolades, Robbinsville High School’s Dalson Jordan and Kolby Brooks will serve as respective valedictorian and salutatorian of the class.
The pair has been involved in many activities together and will even continue their eduction together in the same program at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, with the hopes of going into business together after earning degrees in construction management.
“It’s definitely been a long journey; very hard,” Jordan said. “We’ve both definitely put the work in. Our grade was very competitive.
“I guess we’re just both blessed to have the opportunity to speak in front of our class and to be named the valedictorian and the salutatorian.”
Both said that they knew it was feasible for them to be at the top of their class and worked toward it as a goal.
“I never really stressed a lot over my work,” Brooks said. “I mean, make sure you get it done, but you’ve got to also have fun and relax.”
Jordan said he believed a certain amount of natural ability was necessary to be at the top, but emphasized that putting the work in was still important.
“Anybody can be an A student with enough work, effort and study time,” Jordan said.
Jordan and Brooks have known each other since preschool, and have served as each other’s support systems over the year.
“We’ve always been there for each other,” Brooks said. “I think that’s one of the reasons that we finished on top. We’ve always been able to help each other out.”
Jordan said they were able to help with each other’s strengths and weaknesses.
“The other one can step in,” he said.
The pair said they hoped to go into the construction business in Graham County after college. They spoke to the lack of jobs and housing in the area as the driving factors of their plan.
“It’s definitely a pressing issue in Graham County, and if we are able to go back and get our education and get what we need to be successful, I think we can kind of alleviate some of the job issue,” Jordan said.
“I’ve always liked to work and actually see progress – not just on the computer or something, but I like to try and build something and see your progress as you work on it,” Brooks added.
Both said their favorite moment during their time at Robbinsville High School was watching the Black Knights beat the Murphy Bulldogs during the regular season this year.
“It was one of the best student sections we’ve ever had,” Jordan said.
Jordan also took a moment to reflect on his four years at Robbinsville High School.
“I wouldn’t trade it for the world,” Jordan said. “The student body at RHS is just unmatched. The faculty here are phenomenal. They’ve met every need we’ve had and really been right there beyond just school.
“I’ve made friends with several of the teachers here that I plan to stay friends with, you know, relationships I never thought I’d have that I’ll cherish for the rest of my life.”
“I loved every minute of it,” Brooks added.
Brooks said moving onto the next chapter in his life was bittersweet.
“It’s sad that you’ll never get to see a lot of your classmates again,” Brooks said.
Jordan said he feared losing contact with his high school friends as the next chapter of his life unfolded.
“I know there are new friendships to be made ahead, but definitely I don’t want to lose what I’ve already got,”Jordan said.
Both Jordan and Brooks have achieved several accolades, including both playing on the Black Knights Golf Team. Jordan also serves as president of student council and Spanish club, and as volunteer coordinator for Beta Club.
Additionally, he is an Eagle Scout in Troop 405.
Brooks is also in Beta Club and is Vice President of Spanish club.
Both said that Robbinsviille High School receptionist Tina Carver would be the staff member they’d miss most, with Brooks referring to her as a “second mom” to many students.
“I don’t think RHS would be the same without Tina Carver,” Jordan said.
Graduation is scheduled for 7 p.m. Sunday at Big Oaks Stadium. For those that cannot attend, the commencement will be live-streamed on The Graham Star’s Facebook page.