Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Image by Jenny Lynn Davis, Crest Courtesy of Oakman High School
Oakman High School is gearing up to celebrate its 100th anniversary this Friday, September 29, amidst the excitement of homecoming week.
“We’ve had some small celebrations since the start of 2023, most of which have centered around athletics because athletic events draw people to the campus,” said Principal Leathan Waid. “For example, we had basketball and softball alumni nights. However, our intention with centering the main celebration around homecoming week is to draw even more community support for the centennial celebration.”
The Oakman High School 100-Year Reunion is at the heart of the festivities. Alumni of all ages are invited to partake in a journey down memory lane. Immediately following the homecoming parade on Friday, the school’s athletic facility will be opened to the public and feature display tables showcasing the school’s rich history.
The celebration starts at 5 p.m. with refreshments, allowing alums to reconnect and share stories. Alumni will also receive complimentary tickets to the football game against Winterboro High School, set to kick off at 7 p.m.
The evening will also include a silent auction, beginning after the parade and concluding at 7 p.m. The auction features 100 different items, all with ties to Oakman. The funds raised from this auction will be directed toward the Oakman High School general fund and will likely be used for aesthetic improvements to the school’s building.
Waid emphasized the importance of community involvement: “We’re giving people a space to come visit campus, fellowship with one another, celebrate our school and its history, and hopefully foster continued involvement.”
Waid also expressed appreciation for The Oakman High School Alumni Association and their role in organizing this event, as well as current students who have volunteered their time to help clean up the campus in preparation for the event. WL
