“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character…that is the goal of true education.” — Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

ONE SHINING MOMENT 

Just recently, Nakisha Jolanda Gregory was blessed to commemorate life as a newlywed.

“You can call me Queen Mrs. Gregory, please and thank you,” Gregory said in a March 27 post via Facebook, referring to her having exchanged nuptials with her companion, Shannon Gregory.

In the coming weeks, Gregory will pay witness to yet another milestone, this one belonging to Dominic Graves, her middle child who will acquire his high school diploma during Hampton, Virginia’s Bethel High School’s commencement exercises on June 14 at 7 p.m. EST.

In kicking off Making Headline News’ Annual Salute To Graduate Tributes For 2024, Gregory emphasized, among other things, that she relishes the notion that Graves — who turns 18 July 25 — has steadfastly weathered a rash of educational storms during a high school tenure that was mired by an unprecedented global pandemic.

MHN SALUTES THE CLASS OF 2024

An avid member of Bethel High’s Army ROTC who has become a fixture for the institution’s Academy of Media, Arts, and Design programs — “which has nurtured his creative talents alongside his leadership skills,” Gregory said — Graves was nothing short of impressive in the classroom, having compiled a cumulative grade point average of 3.09.

Next up for the multi-talented honor student who’s suitably known as Nico: it’s off this fall to Norfolk State University, a historically African-American institution, where he plans to major in Kinesiology.

According to a report by News-Medical, Kinesiology — which is derived from the Greek word for movement, ‘kinesis,’ — is the study of the mechanics of bodily movements. This branch of study was started by Dr. George Goodheart, who was a chiropractor, but later absorbed the techniques of traditional Chinese medicine, including acupuncture, to set up a model of disease as a disturbance of energy flow in the body, rather than as a physical entity.

GRAND OCCASION 

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Also, the report cites, Kinesiology evaluates health by exploring the biofeedback from muscles. Moreover, a key principle of applied Kinesiology includes identifying stress which strains the whole body and that may manifest objectively as a weakening of a single muscle.

“This field not only aligns with his love for physical fitness but also opens a variety of career paths that could include becoming a physical therapist, exercise physiologist, or even a wellness consultant,” Gregory said of her son’s future plans. “Dominic is particularly interested in exploring the possibility of becoming a physical trainer, where he can apply his knowledge to help others achieve their health and fitness goals. His major could also lead to opportunities in sports management or rehabilitation sciences, areas that would benefit from his dedication and expertise.”

Before electing to take his immeasurable academic gifts to Norfolk State, Graves considered Old Dominion University, Hampton University, Virginia Commonwealth University, Virginia State University, and Howard University.

“While exploring his options, he was particularly drawn to the field of Biology, considering it alongside his major in Kinesiology,” Gregory said. “These universities were selected not only for their excellent Kinesiology programs but also for their strong Biology departments, which would allow him to delve deeper into the scientific studies of life and living organisms. This broadened scope in his education could open additional pathways in research, environmental science, or healthcare, further enriching his potential career landscape.”

Long before his highly-anticipated senior year, Graves’ craftiness was such that he was determined to keep his mother proud. To his credit, for instance, Graves’ garnered widespread national praise for having authored The Comic Book Chef, his featured written work that debuted in July 2017 — this after he conquered homelessness at the tender age of 10.

“Every moment of pride I feel for Dominic is deeply rooted in the joy of watching his childhood curiosity blossom into profound creativity and scientific success,” Gregory said. “His ability to weave his creativity with his passion for innovation and his skill in science is nothing short of inspiring. Dominic’s journey from a young, imaginative mind to a promising young adult poised to make a significant impact in the medical field has been a source of immense pride and joy for me.”

Interestingly enough, Graves has been invited to what is deemed a prestigious summer medical program at Johns Hopkins University which, as his mother acknowledges, underscores the “limitless potential” he possesses.

“It’s a testament to his dedication and the unique blend of his artistic vision with his scientific curiosity,” Gregory said. “I am proud of how he has connected his love for science with his creative and innovative spirit, pursuing a path in Kinesiology where he can truly make a difference.

“Whether it’s envisioning a future where he might discover a cure for diseases like Lupus or simply using his gifts to inspire and educate others, Dominic’s journey is a heartfelt narrative of turning dreams into reality. His achievements are an example of what can be accomplished with passion, determination, and the heartfelt support of family and friends.”

For what it’s worth, Graves’ sometimes rocky, yet unparalleled journey throughout the years is one on which his mother and the rest of his family will reflect moments before this miracle child’s name is uttered through the loudspeakers to receive his diploma.

FINISHING STRONG 

“When I hear his name called, I’ll be thinking about all the hard work he has put in to reach this moment and how his creative brilliance has always shone through,” Gregory said. “I’ll also be reminded of his father’s influence, particularly his knack for math and science.”

As for when Graves heads off to college in the coming months, such a milestone, too, figures to bring his mother to tears.

Once again.

“I will miss him dearly,” Gregory said. “It feels like just yesterday he was in sixth grade. Now, as he prepares for college, I am overwhelmed with joy and nostalgia, yet excited for the adventures that await him.”

With God, his Helper, steering the way.

NAKISHA JOLANDA GREGORY’s OPEN LETTER TO HER SON

Dominic is truly the heart of our family. He’s deeply loved not just by me, his mother, but also by his grandmother, his dad, my husband, his brothers, bonus sisters, and a wide circle of uncles, aunts, godparents, god-sisters, and cousins. Each one of us is incredibly proud of the compassionate, caring, and polite young man he has become. Dominic always maintains a positive outlook on life, no matter the obstacles he faces. He carries the best qualities of his grandfather Leon Graves and his father Samuel Graves, which makes him an exceptional and admirable young man.

His resilience and kindness shine through everything he does, and he has a unique ability to uplift those around him with his optimism and sincerity. As he prepares for the next chapter in his life, our family watches with immense pride and anticipation. We are excited to see how his future unfolds at Norfolk State University and beyond. Dominic has not only inspired our family but everyone lucky enough to know him. His journey is a vivid testament to what kindness, resilience, and a loving family can nurture.

We believe that Dominic’s story will continue to inspire and motivate others, demonstrating the powerful impact of love, support, and hard work. As he steps into new experiences and challenges, we know that he will carry forward the legacy of his beloved grandfather, enriched by the unyielding support of his entire family. We all look forward to celebrating his future successes, which we are confident will be many.

Dominic has not only shown what it means to overcome obstacles but also how to transform them into pathways for personal growth and service to others. His dedication to health and wellness, coupled with his academic and creative pursuits, positions him as a future leader in whatever field he chooses to dedicate himself to. We are thrilled to see him continue to grow and inspire as he embarks on his next great adventure at Norfolk State University and beyond.

A RELATED STORY 

Hampton, Virginia-area 10-year-old author Dominic Graves conquers homelessness, writes an inspiring comic book

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Andre Johnson is the award-winning Founder and Publisher for Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former staff reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, send email to [email protected] or to [email protected]. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist or Instagram at @makingheadlinenews.

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