Rome Reporter

Lily Cantrell has been named the Valedictorian for Rome High School's Class of 2025. Known for her dedication and passion for learning, Cantrell has achieved a 4.677 GPA, taken 17 AP classes, and six dual enrollment courses. She is also a Georgia Certificate of Merit Recipient and a Leadership Rome graduate.

Cantrell expressed her excitement about being named valedictorian: “Being valedictorian means a lot to me because I've worked so hard for it. But I really love learning, so it means a lot that my love of learning helped pay off in this way,” she said.

Beyond academics, Cantrell is involved in various extracurricular activities. She founded and presides over the 21st Century Leaders Club and holds leadership roles in several other organizations including the National Honors Society and BEAR Club. Additionally, she serves on the Superintendent Student Advisory Council.

Cantrell is also active in sports as part of the Three Rivers Swim Team for 11 years and has competed at state-level swim meets representing Rome High.

Her musical talent extends to playing piano for over 14 years with performances at graduations and music premiers.

In terms of community service, Cantrell has dedicated more than 300 hours volunteering with educational initiatives and animal services through Floyd Felines.

Looking ahead, Cantrell plans to major in political science with a minor in history before attending law school. She aims to make a positive impact as an attorney: “I definitely want to be a lawyer... I want to be the type of lawyer who makes a difference and helps people.”

While she has received multiple college acceptances and scholarships, Cantrell has yet to decide on her future institution.