PRESS RELEASE: MAY 2, 2025

SJR State celebrates spring graduates

Walker Mills

When Walker Mills, 22, of Palatka, enrolled to earn his bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, he said the decision to become a teacher soon became more than just a career path, it was a calling.

“Teaching runs deep within my family. Both my mom and my sister have dedicated much of their lives to educating young children,” Mills said. “When my mother (Darlene) tragically passed away from pancreatic cancer during my sophomore year of college in 2022, I truly felt God was leading me to carry on the legacy she left behind. She poured so much love and light into the students of Putnam County for years, and I knew I wanted to continue making that same impact by walking in her footsteps with purpose and passion.”

Reflecting on his four years at St. Johns River State College, Mills said it was more than an academic path, it was journey that helped shape him as an individual in many ways. “Grades matter, but growth matters more,” Mills said. “If you fail at something, don't let it beat you up. Use that failure to grow and challenge your thinking. Failure can really be a beautiful thing.”

“Lastly, things will change and it's okay to not have it all figured out,” Mills continued. “In the rush of assignments and deadlines, try not to forget who you are as a person. Take time to reflect on your life and make memories with those around you. Because soon you will be walking on the stage, just like me. Let college be your launch pad, not the landing. Your degree opens the door. It's what you do next that defines your story.”

Mills is among the 600+ to graduate this spring from SJR State. Among the 360 graduates participating in the May 2 ceremony on the Orange Park Campus were 150 dual enrollment/early college program students representing Clay, Putnam, and St. Johns counties.

Lexington Hansford

Izabela Schadegg

Sebastian Lopez

Lexington Hansford, a senior at Palatka Jr. Sr. High School, is graduating with her Associate in Arts degree. Hansford enrolled in SJR State’s early college program as a high school freshman and found that the program provided a strong academic foundation and countless opportunities for personal growth.

“The dual enrollment program allowed me to challenge myself academically, while professors encouraged me to think critically and explore my interests in law and public service,” she said. “Thanks to this supportive environment, I’ve not only gained college credits, but also clarity in my career goals.”

Hansford will transfer to the University of Florida this fall to major in political science, a path she chose after participating in the Florida Page & Messenger program, where students visit the capitol and observe legislators in action. Hansford said the experience opened her eyes to the way government works and how policies are made, changing her perspective.

“Before attending, I didn’t fully understand or appreciate how our government operates behind the scenes. But being in the heart of the legislative process—watching floor debates, assisting in day-to-day operations, and interacting with lawmakers—gave me a front-row seat to the reality of how policies are crafted and decisions are made,” she said.

“It wasn’t just educational; it was transformative. I left that experience with a renewed sense of purpose and a strong desire to be part of the solution. It opened my eyes to how deeply government affects people’s lives and how critical it is to have thoughtful, ethical individuals in positions of influence. That program not only changed my perspective but also inspired me to pursue a career where I can make a tangible impact through policy, advocacy, and service,” Hansford said.

One of Hansford’s most meaningful moments at SJR State was during an Introduction to Criminal Justice course, where she conducted an in-depth interview focused on the use of discretion in the justice system.

“It was the first time I took classroom knowledge—terms, theories, and case studies—and applied it in a real-world context through direct conversation with a professional,” she said. “That experience gave me a new sense of confidence in my abilities. It also showed me that my curiosity and questions could lead to meaningful insights and dialogue. More than anything, it reinforced that I belonged in this field—that I have a voice and a perspective worth contributing, even as a student. It made me realize how passionate I am about exploring the complexities of justice and the people who uphold or challenge the system. That project didn’t just earn me a grade—it deepened my commitment to the path I’m pursuing.”

Handsford plans to ultimately become a practicing attorney or work in foreign service, serving as a U.S. diplomat or policy advisor. “I hope to be making a meaningful impact—whether that’s advocating for underserved communities through law or representing the United States abroad,” she said.

Also among the graduates was Izabela Schadegg, who aspires to become a flight nurse and ultimately a nurse practitioner. Graduating with her Associate in Science degree in Nursing, Schadegg plans to continue her education at SJR State in the bachelor’s program while working in the field.

She said she chose nursing as a career after caring for her grandmother who suffered a stroke. “I saw how much of a difference I could make - not just for her, but for my entire family. Since then, I’ve known I wanted to dedicate my life to helping others,” Schadegg said.

In addition to helping Schadegg reach her career goals, SJR State also played a more personal role. “I knew I had chosen the right program when I met my friend Abbe. We quickly bonded over our shared passion for medicine. We started out as study partners and eventually became best friends,” Schadegg said. “That’s when I realized this program was offering me more than just a career path, it was giving me lifelong friendships.”

Sebastian Lopez, a senior at Orange Park High School, is graduating with his Associate in Arts degree. Lopez enrolled in SJR State’s early college program as a high school freshman.

In addition to the rigorous program, Lopez excelled at OPHS academically (ranked second in his class) as well as in his commitments outside of the classroom. Those commitments included the Future Business Leaders of America, captain of the varsity swim team, and more than 500 hours working as a lifeguard.

Lopez is headed to Rollins College in Winter Park this fall where he will major in biological science with the goal to become a radiologist. “I’ve always been fascinated by the medical field and want a career where I can help others through science and technology,” Lopez said.

According to Lopez, SJR State gave him a strong academic foundation. “SJR State helped me build the time management and study skills I’ll need to succeed at a university,” he said. “The professors were supportive and really encouraged me to push myself.” He advises incoming students to take advantage of every opportunity the college offers. “Connect with your professors, and don’t be afraid to ask for help,” he said. “Stay organized and remember that hard work really does pay off.”

Brenham Davila

Logan Cake

During the ceremony, the Valedictorian Award was presented to Brenham Davila, a senior at Tocoi Creek high school. The award is given based on grade point average and difficulty of courses. Davila enrolled in SJR State’s early college program as a high school freshman and earned her A.A. degree while attending high school. Davila plans to transfer into Florida State University’s honors program this fall and will major in biomedical sciences with a minor in chemistry.

A portion of the ceremony was dedicated to the Paul “Dee” Causey President’s Award. Each year, the award honors the memory of an SJR State alumnus whom Pickens described as not only his mentor, but a fearless athlete, dedicated family man and successful businessman. “Dee Causey loved the underdog, and he loved nothing more than helping the underdog succeed,” Pickens said.

This year, Pickens presented the award to Logan Cake, a dual enrollment student and senior attending the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind.

Cake lost most of his vision at the age of 10 due to a cancerous brain tumor and spent the rest of his childhood adapting to visual challenges and a new way of learning.

During his sophomore year, Cake suffered a stroke, forcing him again, to adapt to a new set of challenges. But, Cake was determined to not give up, said Marta Clinger, an SJR State dual enrollment advisor who nominated Cake for the award.

“One of the things that got him through was the drive to be back at school in the fall when classes resumed, and to not let his circumstances get the best of him,” said Clinger. “Not many people thought Logan would be able to make as quick of a recovery from something so detrimental, but he was determined.”

Despite his challenges, Cake is graduating from FSDB at the top of his class, and from SJR State with his A.A. degree. Cake will transfer to the University of North Florida this fall and enroll in the college’s honors program to major in business.

SJR State English professor Jay Engelbrecht was the commencement speaker.

Photos from graduation can be found on the SJR State flickr page.

More than 600 students took part in SJR State's spring graduation. Among the 360 graduates participating in the May 2 ceremony on the Orange Park Campus were 150 dual enrollment/early college program students representing Clay, Putnam, and St. Johns counties.