The Class of 2026 at University Heights Academy celebrated commencement Friday evening as 39 seniors received diplomas during graduation ceremonies at the school.
Collectively, the class earned more than $1.92 million in scholarships and featured four valedictorians — Jillian McCourt, Megan Long, Alexis Pollard and Jackson Flynn — along with salutatorian Alyssa Grise.
Head of School Tonya Oakley described the graduating class as both academically and athletically accomplished, noting many students balanced multiple sports while maintaining strong grades.
Oakley said the class also stood out because of the close relationships students built during their years at UHA.
Oakley said several members of the graduating class have attended UHA since preschool, helping create strong bonds among students, teachers and families.
Founded in 1973, University Heights Academy serves students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade and operates as an independent college preparatory school in Hopkinsville.
Oakley said the school’s structure allows students of all ages to interact in ways not commonly seen on larger campuses.
“You get to see our pre-K 3- and 4-year-olds interact with our high school students, and that’s just really special, something unique that you don’t see on other campuses,” Oakley said.
She added that the school continues to educate for college readiness through Advanced Placement classes, dual-credit opportunities, co-op programs and career preparation.
Oakley also shared parting advice for graduates, borrowing a message from valedictorian Jillian McCourt.
