Cumberland County Schools (CCS) hosted its sixth annual Feather Ceremony this evening in Gray’s Creek High School's auditorium. The event honored 90 Native American high school seniors from the Class of 2025 who represented 13 recognized American Indian tribes.
Organized by the CCS Office of Indian Education, the ceremony celebrated the students' academic accomplishments, perseverance and cultural heritage. Each senior was presented with a feather, a sacred symbol of strength, honor and pride as they prepare to graduate and begin the next chapter of their lives.
“As we commemorate the sixth annual Feather Ceremony within Cumberland County Schools, it is evident that this occasion has transcended its origins to become a deeply respected and meaningful tradition,” said Candice Revels, coordinator of CCS Office of Indian Education. “This ceremony serves not only to recognize the accomplishments of our Native American graduates, but also to honor the enduring legacy, cultural resilience and rich heritage of Indigenous communities. It stands as a testament to our district’s ongoing commitment to inclusion, cultural preservation and educational excellence.”
The ceremony featured a keynote address from April Whittemore Locklear, the associate director of the Accessibility Resource Center at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and a CCS graduate. Locklear, who is the former Miss Indian North Carolina and Miss Indian World, inspired the seniors and their families as she shared words of wisdom about faith, balance and life. "Change is constant, it's going to happen," said Locklear. "Do not lose who you are. Always check in with yourself."
The program was enriched by traditional and contemporary performances, including musical tributes by pageant royalty such as Ms. Lumbee Calista Deal, Teen Ms. Lumbee Mayla Florita, Senior Ms. Lumbee Carolyn Emanuel, Mrs. Indigenous NC Carla Monds and Ms. Senior Indian Coalition Sharon Burnette. The Cumberland County Culture Class drummed throughout the event and a flute tribute by Cristian Martinez-Mercado added a heartfelt note to the evening.
A special moment of the evening included a tribute to CCS Superintendent Dr. Marvin Connelly, Jr., who was presented with a beaded bolo in recognition of his upcoming retirement and unwavering support of Native American students and cultural initiatives throughout his tenure. The gesture symbolized gratitude from the Native American community for his advocacy and leadership.
In addition to the feather presentations, approximately 15 students received college scholarships from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and the American Indian Society of North Carolina.
Family members were present in person and the event was also live-streamed via the CCS YouTube channel, allowing community members near and far to participate in the celebration.
Snapshots from Tonight’s Feather Ceremony
To view a full album of high-resolution images from the event, click here.
To watch the recorded video of the live-streamed event, click below.