ADAIRSVILLE, Ga. — One Bartow County family has a unique reason to celebrate as three generations of valedictorians mark a legacy of academic excellence at Adairsville High School.
Callie Viktora is the latest valedictorian. The 2024 high school graduate's passion for science and dedication to her studies culminated in a perfect balance of hard work and achievement, showcased in her final chemistry experiment before graduation.
“Science, I'm definitely a science girl," Callie said. "I've always loved science and being outside."
Her love for science is matched by a deep appreciation for her family's history at Adairsville High School. See Callie’s mother, Sharon Viktora, stood at the same podium in 1995 as the school's valedictorian.
“Seeing it all in one place really brings it together because I have so many strong women in my life,” Callie said.
The Viktora family's story of achievement doesn’t stop there. Sharon Viktora fondly recalls the influence of her own mother, Joan Nelson, who was the valedictorian in 1961, around the same time as the school was built.
“Set your mind to it; there's no goal that you can't achieve when you set your mind to it,” Sharon said.
It's been 63 years, according to Joan, who never thought she'd see this moment.
"Never in my wildest dreams or imaginations did I think I would have a daughter and a granddaughter that would graduate after me," Joan said. "I am elated; I adore them. And I congratulate them."
As they gathered around old family photos, Sharon pulled out a cherished piece of their history: her mother’s 1961 valedictorian speech. Tucked away with the photographs, the words are a testament to the enduring spirit of the Viktora women.
Each generation has drawn strength and inspiration from the one before, creating a legacy that is as strong as it is heartfelt. Callie’s younger sister, Savannah, is already following in her footsteps and is currently ranked number one in her class.
As Callie prepares to carve her own path, she carries with her the wisdom and strength of the women who came before her. Quoting Tennyson’s "Ulysses" in her valedictorian speech, like the strong ladies before her, she reflects on the legacy and continues: “I am a part of all that I’ve met.”
And indeed, those parts have been passed down with love and pride from one generation to the next.