UNION TOWNSHIP - It was a short walk but a big step.

Collins Career Center

recognized about 195 students in the class of 2004 during the 27th annual Completion Ceremony Thursday at Fairland High School.

Students proudly wore graduation robes in the colors of their home schools as they walked across the stage.

Students in the ceremony included those who had successfully completed their program requirements and had 95 percent attendance for two years and those who earned fourteen credits with less than 95 percent attendance.

Student Activities Council President James Andrew Riffe introduced the guest speaker - State Rep. Clyde Evans. (R-87th).

National Honor Society President Stephanie D. McDaniel presented a speech titled, "A tribute to parents."

McDaniel also asked administrators and teachers to stand up for public recognition. Special awards were also presented to numerous students.

Honor Society members include: Ashley Lynne Black, Hollie Anne Blankenship, Brandey Nicole Burd, Melissa Sue Campbell, Keri Mae Curtis, Paul Douglas, Amanda Dawn Ellis, Christine Marie Ferris, Chris Kerns, Tawna Laura Martin, Amanda Shatea Cremeans Massie, Kelli Renae Rife, Brittany Lynn Scarberry, Candace Arlene Thomas, Kristen Faith Thomas and Amber Michelle Ward.

Ellis, who received her certificate of completion in Health Tech Prep, achieved perfect attendance for two years.

Schools participating at the center are Chesapeake, Dawson-Bryant, Fairland, Ironton, St. Joseph, Rock Hill, South Point and Symmes Valley.