The Darlington School Class of 2026 marked a milestone as graduates, families and faculty gathered for the school’s 121st commencement ceremony that was filled with reflection, celebration and anticipation for the future.
In addressing the graduates, school leadership reflected on the meaning of Saturday’s commencement- both an ending and a beginning.
“As your career as a Darlington student ends, I hope that you know that we love you, and that you will always be a Darlington Tiger,” Darlington Head of School Brent Bell said. “Take what you have learned - your successes, your failures, your relationships - and be confident in knowing that you make a worthy contribution to the world.”
Speakers also highlighted the class’s accomplishments and close-knit community, pointing to achievements in academics, athletics, arts and student leadership.
“Our commitment to each other and our genuine connection have created a phenomenal environment on campus,” Class President Toby Burns said. “We have made this campus great, but it was only through the inherent character of each and every one of you.”
Burns reflected on shared experiences - from spirited athletic victories to campus traditions and senior pranks - while emphasizing the lasting bonds formed among classmates.
“Now we say goodbye,” Burns said. “Together, we have faced fear, heartbreak, laughter and disappointment… but the time has come where we won’t be doing it together anymore.”
Christopher Twyman, president of the State Bar of Georgia and Darlington parent, was the keynote speaker for the commencement. In a speech blending humor and life lessons, Twyman encouraged students to carry forward three guiding principles: maintain meaningful relationships, trust their instincts and define their own version of success.
“Your success, your happiness, your satisfaction will be in great part determined by your relationships,” he said. “Life is about relationships.”
Twyman urged graduates to remain connected in an age where technology makes it easier than ever and to rely on their inner voice when facing life’s challenges. Twyman also challenged students to reject society's narrow definitions of success.
“You define your own version of success,” he said. “Happiness is the very evidence that you have defined your success.”
Throughout the ceremony, themes of resilience and growth were evident, with speakers noting the class’s experiences navigating challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic while continuing to achieve academically and personally.
As the ceremony concluded, the Class of 2026 prepared to officially receive their diplomas, marking the end of their time at Darlington and the beginning of their next chapter.
“Today, our Darlington journey is complete,” Twyman said. “Tomorrow, the world will find Darlington in you.”
This article was originally published by Baylen Parker in the Rome News-Tribune on May 18, 2026.
