Distinguished Alumni

2004 Graduate

Dr. Baumgartner graduated as Valedictorian in 2004. She graduated from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor's of Agricultural Science degree in 2008. She then received a Doctorate of Medicine degree from the Medical College of Georgia in 2012 and completed a 3-year Internal Medicine residency at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga in 2015. Thereafter, she completed a Preventive Medicine fellowship at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and concurrently received a Master's of Public Health degree in 2017. She has worked in various healthcare systems, providing primary care services to adults. Additionally, she participated in several mission trips, providing care to the underserved communities in Peru, Dominican Republic, Bangladesh, and Sierra Leone. She now serves as the Chief of Geriatric Extended Care and Medical Director for the Community Living Center at the Iron Mountain, Michigan, VA.

2005 Graduate

Keturah “KT” Spence Onukwuli is a 2005 honor graduate from BCHS. During her time there, she participated in various clubs and organizations, including the BCHS marching and concert bands and the Air Force Junior ROTC program. Her positive experiences in AFJROTC drove her to successfully compete for and win a national ROTC scholarship. She went on to attend the University of Georgia, where she graduated in 2009 and became a commissioned officer in the U.S. Air Force.

Keturah has served over 16 years in the U.S. Air Force, where she was promoted early to the ranks of Major and Lieutenant Colonel. She is a career Space Operations Officer with experience in missile warning, space domain awareness, electronic warfare, and satellite command & control missions. She recently led her organization’s implementation of a historic personnel management act to combine Space Force Guardians and Air Force Reserve space professionals into one integrated U.S. Space Force with full-time and part-time service options. Keturah recently transitioned to the U.S. Space Force in September 2025 and has been selected to serve as the commander of the 527th Space Aggressor Squadron in 2026.

Outside of work, Keturah serves as a volunteer worship leader at Open Bible Baptist Church, where she leads a team of over 20 musicians, singers, and A/V technicians and plans weekly church services and special events in coordination with a pastoral staff. She is a highly requested singer, having performed the national anthem at over 200 military and community events at the local, state, and national levels.

Keturah has returned to BCHS on multiple occasions to speak with Air Force Junior ROTC cadets about military service opportunities. Additionally, she has made significant contributions to the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA), leading the effort to name USAFA’s airfield after Brigadier General Benjamin O. Davis, Jr., a Tuskegee Airman and the U.S. Air Force’s first African-American brigadier general. She served as a top instructor, significantly impacting students’ understanding of national security, space/cyber warfare, and emotional intelligence. Furthermore, Keturah advised the school’s Black Student Union and mentored hundreds of cadets through academic challenges, improving minority & female student retention and officer commissioning rates. She also provided extensive financial literacy training, helping students manage personal debt and develop business ownership skills. Her instructional and mentorship efforts culminated in her selection for the U.S. Air Force Academy’s Malham M. Wakin Character and Leadership Development Award in 2019.

Lieutenant Colonel Onukwuli is a proud BCHS alumna with a consistent track record of serving her nation and community while inspiring the next generation of military leaders through impactful initiatives, innovative teaching, extensive mentorship, and courageous advocacy.

1992 Graduate

Mrs. Kenya Sullivan Crumbley is the Founder & Visionary of B.R.I.D.G.E. Youth & Young Adults Organization birth out of Burke County. The organization celebrated their 15th anniversary in August 2025. The organization impact comes from a holistic approach to transform youth & young adults and their communities. B.R.I.D.G.E. extends help beyond Burke County; however, they are based and originated in Burke County. Burke County is the heart of the organization.

Mrs. Sullivan is also a minister of Waynesboro Deliverance Evangelist Church.

2003 Graduate

Prince Dykes, Burke County High School alumnus and retired U.S. Navy Chief, is a visionary financial educator, author, and founder of the Royal Financial Investment Group and Global Children Financial Literacy Foundation. Through books, a leading podcast, and youth-focused programs, he empowers the next generation to become stockholders and responsible, informed citizens. His work with Investopedia’s 25th Anniversary Council and IDAC highlights a commitment to diversity and inclusion in finance.
 
Prince Dykes is a Burke County High School alumnus whose career seamlessly blends military service, financial education leadership, and philanthropic impact. A retired U.S. Navy Chief, he founded the Royal Financial Investment Group and the Global Children Financial Literacy Foundation, creating scalable programs that empower youth to understand and participate in financial markets around the nation. As author of the Wesley Learns book series and the ABCs of Finance coloring book, Prince translates complex concepts into accessible learning for children. The book series has sold thousands of copies across the globe and has turned hundreds of kids into first time share holders of stock. He hosts The Investor Show, a top-rated podcast that broadens access to sound financial education which has over 100k followers. His leadership extends to influential roles, including founding council member for Investopedia’s 25th anniversary and board member of the Investment Diversity Advisory Council (IDAC), where he advocates for diversity and inclusion in finance. Prince’s commitment to mentorship, character, and community uplift—rooted in Burke County values—exemplifies the best of our alumni and serves as an inspiration to current students.
 
After graduating from BCHS in 2023 Prince Dykes enlisted into the US Navy on active duty for 20 years. During his career he served as a Logistics Specialist on submarines,SCUBA Diver and earned Navy Commendation Medal (7) Navy and Marine Corps  Achievement Medals and numerous campaign medals and retired as Chief Cryptologic Technician in 2023. In 2021 while serving on active duty Prince founded the Registered Investment Advisory  Royal Financial Investment Group with a $500 client which has grown to over $4M in Asset Under Management. He extended his impact through founding the nonprofit Global Children Financial Literacy Foundation, which equips young readers with the knowledge and confidence to become stockholders, fostering long-term financial responsibility from an early age Prince’s work as an author—Wesley Learns book series—democratizes financial knowledge, making it approachable for children and parents alike. Through The Investor Show, his podcast, he amplifies practical finance education to a national audience, mentoring aspiring investors, educators, and policymakers. His influence is recognized by prestigious industry accolades, including Investopedia’s Top 100 Financial Advisors (2023) and GoBankingRates’ Top 100 Financial Advisors (2025), underscoring his role as a thought leader in financial literacy.
 
A retired U.S. Navy Chief, Prince embodies Burke County’s values of discipline, service, and integrity. His leadership on diversity and inclusion—serving on Investopedia’s 25th Anniversary Council and as a board member of the Investment Diversity Advisory Council (IDAC)—advances opportunities for underrepresented communities in finance, aligning with the district’s commitment to equity and access. Through mentorship programs, speaking engagements, and community partnerships, Prince continually uplifts students, families, and local organizations, inspiring practical pathways from high school to productive, informed citizenship.
 
Mr. Dykes demonstrates leadership in founding and growing multiple organizations, is recognized as a top financial advisor and media-influenced educator. His community Impact includes empowering youth through financial literacy programs, mentoring and advocating for diversity in finance, and sustaining public service ethos from his Navy career. Through innovation & influence, he introduced new educational formats (books, coloring books, podcasts) that broadened access to finance, and shaped industry conversations on diversity through IDAC and Investopedia roles.
 
He exemplifies a non-linear, multi-sector career spanning military service, publishing, philanthropy, and media while embodying service, discipline, and ethical leadership; committed to equitable access to financial education.
 
Mr. Dykes is a proud Burke County High School alumnus with a documented track record of uplifting communities, and being ready to engage Burke County students with mentorship, speaking engagements, and partnerships.

2003 Graduate
 
Audrey Lewis is a 2003 Honor Graduate.  Audrey has been given many honors for her commitment to community and the legal profession to include LiveSafe Resources Woman of Achievement 2024, UGA 40 under 40 Honoree, Leadership Burke 2017 Class, Junior League of Atlanta Advocacy and Initiatives Council ('22), Young Lawyer's Division of the State Bar of Georgia Inclusion in the Profession Co-Chair, Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta Junior Board member, and service as the former Chair of the Prosecution and Law Enforcement Committee of the statewide Georgia Coalition Human Trafficking Taskforce. Audrey also volunteered as a presenter/trainer on the topics of sexual assault prosecution for Rape Crisis of Augusta for several years.
 
She was recognized by 100 Black Women of Atlanta for presenting on sexual assault and domestic violence dynamics. She served on the Board for the Cobb Family Advocacy Center for two years. Additionally, Audrey served as the Co-Programming Director for The Georgia Association of Black Women's Attorney's Sister 2 Sister Mentoring Program for five years and has served as a mentor since 2012. Audrey is a charter member of the University of Georgia's 1961 Giving Society and was inducted into the Academy of Women Leaders for her dedication to the community and her profession. Audrey serves as a UGA Mentor and sits on the UGA School of Public and International Affairs Alumni Board of Directors.
 
Recently, she completed her term on the Women of UGA Alumni Council. Audrey continues to support the Burke County Community and has been a participant in BCMS' career day and has been a guest speaker to students at SGA Elementary. Audrey served the community as a prosecutor for 9 years as an Assistant District Attorney and as the Chief Assistant Solicitor General handling high profile, complex cases before ultimately successfully arguing before the Georgia Supreme Court. Audrey now handles high profile and complex cases for local and state government entities as an attorney at Gregory Doyle Calhoun and Rogers in Marietta, Georgia. She has also served as the Chief Assistant County Attorney for Douglas County.
 
Audrey is a member of the Nu Lambda Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. Audrey is actively involved as an evaluator for Georgia High School Mock Trial and served as a Coach for Morrow High School. She serves annually as a judge for Emory Law School's National Civil Rights and Liberties Moot Court Competition. Audrey has recently been selected as a member of the Lawyer's Club of Atlanta, an organization dedicated to cultivating civility in the profession. She is a member of the Gate City Bar in Atlanta and a volunteer with the Atlanta Community Food Bank. 

Once a Bear, Always a Bear!

2005 Graduate
 
Dr. Whitney L. Smith graduated high school as an honor student, excelling not only academically but also in athletics and leadership programs. She played basketball, softball, and ran track, actively participating in both school and recreation league sports. In addition, she was a member of ROTC, where she developed early skills in discipline, teamwork, and leadership.
 
After high school, Whitney went directly to college, majoring in Education. She graduated with honors, balancing the challenges of family and work while continuing her academic journey. Determined and resilient, demonstrating both sacrifice and perseverance.
 
Whitney began her professional career as a teacher at Blakeney Elementary School, where her excellence in the classroom earned her recognition as Teacher of the Year, and District Teacher of the year for the entire district. After several successful years at Blakeney, she made the difficult but intentional decision to move to Grovetown, where she continued teaching before being offered a position as Assistant Principal.
 
During her time as Assistant Principal, she also served as an Adjunct Professor at Georgia Military College (GMC), guiding young people in making sound decisions about their studies and career paths. Her leadership and ability to inspire others led her to mentor fellow educators from Burke County—two of whom are now Assistant Principals and one who is now a Principal.
 
Three years ago, Whitney reached a significant milestone when she was appointed Principal of Martinez Elementary School, becoming one of the youngest female principals in her district.
 
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Dr. Smith actively serves on educational ministries for her church as well as partnering with community leaders to make an impact on the lives of families throughout the CSRA. 
 
Throughout her journey, Dr. Smith has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence in education, servant leadership, and community impact. From the classroom to the principal’s office, she has consistently uplifted others, paving the way for the next generation of educators and leaders. Her story reflects perseverance, vision, and the belief that hard work and faith can open doors to extraordinary opportunities.

2005 Graduate
 
In 2016, Dustin took over the heating and air division of Rowell Electric and established Rowell Heating & Air, LLC. He is the sole owner of the company and is the third generation as a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer, continuing the same quality service and products established by his grandfather, Billy Rowell, in 1955. In 2019, Rowell Heating & Air, LLC won the prestigious Carrier Presidents Award, the highest annual honor a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer can receive. It recognizes dealers who demonstrate exceptional leadership, operational excellence, technical expertise, and consistently exceeds high customer satisfaction standards. In the past
several years, Dustin has added plumbing and duct cleaning (a certified ductless pro through Carrier) to the services offered by the company. Dustin also owns Rising Tide Heating & Air Solutions, LLC in Myrtle Beach, SC and recently established a pools and spas company (Rowell Pools &Spas, LLC). All of his businesses are Google Certified with a 5-star rating and are accredited through the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating.
 
All of Dustin’s businesses are run with integrity. The Rowell Heating & Air, LLC motto is “Trust, Honor, & Pride”. Employees are expected to treat all customers with respect, honesty, courtesy and Christian values. Dustin is very loyal to his employees and treats them as family. Dustin is a Christian and he and his family are members of Rosemont Baptist Church here in Waynesboro. They attend regularly and are active in many of the church activities. Dustin is currently the chairman of the committee entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing, designing and building a new multipurpose facility that will be primarily focused on our youth, social activities and gatherings, and outreach.
 
Rowell Heating & Air & Rowell Pools & Spas are both active supporters of the community. Both companies support the local schools annually, with active athletic and booster club sponsorships, donations, and advertising. They also sponsor a wide variety of community events, including Boss Hog, Community Concert, The Wimberly House, Center for New Beginnings, the Hat & Spur Rodeo, Farm Fest, Mad

Anthony’s Big Boom, and other local activities. Rowell Heating & Air is also a sponsor of many of the Burke County Recreation Department’s needs, where Dustin serves as a coach in the youth softball league.

2012 Graduate

Michaela Carter is a dynamic communications professional, author, and community leader whose innovative work continues to influence people locally and globally. In her role as Communications Officer II (Marketing & Communications) at Georgia Tech, Michaela develops creative strategies that amplify the voices of diverse departments and initiatives, showcasing her ability to merge storytelling with strategy in impactful ways.
 
Outside of higher education, Michaela has established herself as an influential author and faith-based leader. Her children’s books, Payton’s Little Prayers and Payton Finds Her Voice, centers Black family life, faith, and intergenerational storytelling—bringing representation to children’s literature while opening doors for meaningful conversations in homes, schools, and churches. She also created devotionals such as In Raw Form and Tending to My Temple, guiding women through spiritual, emotional, and physical wellness journeys.
 
Michaela’s innovative spirit is also evident through her leadership of RAWCove (Restoring Ambitious Women), a women’s ministry that fosters spiritual growth and authentic connections. RAWCove hosts wellness challenges, prayer gatherings, and community-centered events designed to strengthen women in their walk with Christ and their daily lives. Her influence extends further through her service as a Global Missions Apprentice at Victory Church, where she co-led a mission trip to Rwanda and created programming for children through Vacation Bible School.
 
Her influence is not only through her professional and ministry work but also through her intentional community leadership. Michaela has led voter registration efforts through her sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., ensuring civic engagement among underrepresented groups. She has also been recognized with awards such as the Marketing and Media Trailblazer Award (2023) and the African American Heritage Arts Award (2024), further affirming the impact of her innovation and leadership.
 
From publishing and ministry to communications and community service, Michaela Carter continues to embody innovation and influence, creating spaces where voices are heard, women are restored, children are inspired, and communities are uplifted.

2005 Graduate

Kevin embodies the definition of career excellence through his steady rise and dedication within Farmers Home Furniture. Beginning in October 2005 as a delivery driver at the Millen location, Kevin’s determination, work ethic, and leadership abilities quickly became evident. Over the past two decades, he has advanced through nearly every role the company offers — from delivery driver to sales, credit manager, and store manager — and now serves as a Group Manager, overseeing 12 locations in Southeast Georgia.
 
His leadership extends beyond his own team. Kevin shares his knowledge and experience by teaching sales management techniques to others within the company, helping to develop future leaders. He is highly regarded by his coworkers for his professionalism, mentorship, and the respect he shows to everyone around him. His willingness to relocate multiple times — serving in Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee — demonstrates both resilience and commitment to the company’s success.
 
This October, Kevin will celebrate 20 years with Farmers Home Furniture. His professional journey reflects not only personal achievement but also a legacy of dedication, leadership, and growth that has made a lasting impact on the company and those he mentors.

2001 Graduate

From the moment John Carroll stepped onto the campus of Burke County High School, he was already carving his own unique path. Whether challenging stereotypes as one of BCHS’s first male cheerleaders or responding to a divine call to ministry as a freshman, the Class of 2001 valedictorian has always chosen purpose over comfort and compassion over convention.

After graduating from Mercer University with a degree in Christianity, John and his wife, Casey, embarked on an extraordinary two-year journey overseas with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. Their mission: to bring clean, safe water to communities in need. Together, they built community-sized water filtration systems across Southeast Asia—work that would not only improve lives but also lay the foundation for a lifetime of service.

That spirit of service deepened in 2004 when tragedy struck Southeast Asia with a devastating tsunami that claimed over 200,000 lives. John spent more than two months on the ground in the aftermath, distributing food, setting up temporary shelters and sanitation systems, organizing volunteer teams, and even participating in body recovery efforts. It was grueling, humbling work—an experience that reshaped his understanding of faith, resilience, and humanity.

Following his mission work abroad, Carroll earned a Master of Divinity from Wake Forest University in 2012. His journey then led him to the pulpit of First Baptist Church in Danville, Virginia, where he faithfully served a congregation navigating the challenges of a changing city. There, John helped build bridges of racial unity through his involvement in Danville United, a local coalition working toward racial reconciliation and community healing.

In December 2019, Carroll was called to serve as pastor of First Baptist Church in Aiken, South Carolina, where his ministry continues to reflect his heart for justice, equity, and service. Under his leadership, the church has deepened its commitment to racial reconciliation—partnering with Aiken’s historically Black Second Baptist Church for shared worship services, a joint GED program, and events such as the Repairing the Harms of Racism conference and pilgrimage.

Most recently, John and his congregation have taken on another major initiative: addressing housing insecurity in their community through the development of the Just Housing Assistance Ministry, a program dedicated to helping families in crisis find stability and hope.

Through every chapter of his life, John Carroll has lived out the lessons first instilled in him at Burke County High School—lessons of compassion, curiosity, and courage. He credits former teachers such as Karen Reeves, who inspired him to think beyond the classroom, and Renee Hickman, who modeled how compassion and high expectations can transform lives.

“Look around you with your own eyes,” Carroll says, “and you will find that God is still at work, that God has not abandoned you. God is working to renew all things.”

2001 Graduate

Kimberly Gunn exemplifies the spirit and values of Burke County through her distinguished career achievements, community leadership, and unwavering commitment to service. She has built a career that bridges entertainment, education, and ministry, holding a B.S. in Early Childhood Education and an M.A. in Worship Studies. With over twenty years of experience in music, education, instructional design, corporate training, and project management, she has consistently demonstrated excellence and leadership in shaping learning environments and equipping teams for success.
 
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kimberly has made a lasting impact in the Savannah community through her roles as a singer, Co-Pastor, and community leader. She is the Co-Pastor of Hosanna Church in Pooler, Ga. She created initiatives such as The Love & Soul Experience, Love & Soul Family Festival, and The Love Again Mental Health Initiative. She is dedicated to mentoring and supporting creatives/entrepreneurs and women, extending care through spiritual guidance, encouragement, and practical resources.
 
Kimberly is also an innovator and influencer as a recording artist, author, and entrepreneur. She has recorded several projects, authored faith-based books, launched coaching services, and designed programs that blend ministry with instructional design. Her creativity and vision continue to open doors for others to grow in their faith, leadership, and personal development. Her career reflects diversity of paths—spanning education, music, ministry, training, writing, and entrepreneurship—allowing her to make significant contributions across multiple fields.
 
At the core of Kimberly’s work is a deep commitment to character and integrity. Guided by values of faith, perseverance, and servant leadership, she models resilience and inspires others to pursue their God-given purpose with excellence. She continues to represent Burke County with pride, carrying forward the lessons instilled in her as a student and uplifting her alma mater through her leadership, service, and dedication to others.
 
For her career excellence, community impact, innovative contributions, and steadfast integrity, Kimberly Gunn stands as a remarkable representative of Burke County High School and is highly deserving of recognition.

1999 Graduate

Never one to shy away from a challenge, Ronda Wright McKnight has built her career on curiosity, innovation, and leadership. Whether optimizing global supply systems for one of the world’s largest companies or helping others experience the joy of travel, Ronda’s journey is proof that excellence and imagination can thrive together.

The 1999 Burke County High School graduate discovered her love for problem-solving early on. A standout student and athlete—participating in basketball, softball, track, and the Senior Homecoming Court—Ronda also made her mark as a member of the Technology Student Association, where she developed an interest in engineering and process design. That spark would eventually shape her career.

After earning her Bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Georgia Tech, Ronda began her professional journey at Anheuser-Busch, managing operations at the company’s Cartersville plant. Her exceptional performance quickly led to a promotion to the corporate office in St. Louis, where she partnered with senior leadership to drive improvement projects across 12 domestic and two international breweries. During that time, she also completed her MBA at Washington University in St. Louis, further equipping her for executive leadership.  

Ronda later joined General Mills, where she oversaw production lines for some of America’s most beloved brands, including Old El Paso, Hamburger Helper, and Bowl Appétit. As Operations Manager, she led a team of more than 100 employees, improving efficiency and affordability while ensuring the quality of products enjoyed by families nationwide. “It’s rewarding to know that the work I do impacts the foods people share around their tables every day,” she said in an earlier interview.  Ronda led the Continuous Improvement team for Coca Cola North America, developing cost savings strategies across the US.  While at Coca Cola, Ronda joined the Board of Directors for Women in Manufacturing, later becoming the Treasurer for the Board.

Today, Ronda serves as a Senior Director at Mars, Inc., where she leads with international influence, overseeing supply excellence strategies that drive performance and innovation across a global network. Recognized within the industry for her leadership in continuous improvement and operational excellence, she is also a proud advocate for women in manufacturing and engineering, mentoring emerging leaders and championing equity in STEM fields.

But Ronda’s creativity doesn’t stop in the boardroom. As the founder of The Wright Getaway, she channels her love of exploration into curating meaningful travel experiences for others. Through her company, she helps individuals and groups discover the world, encouraging them to embrace adventure and connection. “Travel opens your eyes to new possibilities,” she says. “It teaches you as much about yourself as it does about the world.”

Ronda credits her parents, Dorothy Stokes and Rev. Rex Wright & Yolanda Wright, and her teachers at Burke County High School for nurturing her curiosity and drive. “They always pushed me to keep moving forward—to think bigger and to believe that I could make a difference,” she reflects.

Whether she’s leading global operations, mentoring teams, or helping travelers explore the world, Ronda Wright McKnight continues to exemplify what it means to live with purpose and vision. Her journey reminds us that success isn’t just about reaching the top—it’s about bringing others along for the climb.

2003 Graduate

Laurie Dickey Billings is a 2003 honor graduate from BCHS. During her time there, she participated in many clubs, organizations, and sports. She was recognized as a scholar athlete and received the Booster Club award as top female athlete, representing tennis, cross country, cheerleading and volleyball. Laurie was also selected by her peers to represent their class on Homecoming court and crowned as Prom Princess and Prom Queen. Being involved made her well rounded and gave her invaluable skills for building relationships.
 
After high school, Laurie attended Valdosta State University and graduated with honors with a degree in broadcast journalism. After a short stint of being a reporter, she returned home to Waynesboro. She enrolled in AU and graduated with honors when she obtained her masters and specialists degrees in education.
 
Laurie began teaching in 2008 at SGA as a pre-k teacher. During that time, she was enrolled in masters classes. She attributes her approach to teaching as doing what comes naturally since she did not have a background in education. It was the perfect fit for her though and she has excelled along the way. She spent 5 years in Pre-K, 1 year in 1st, and the rest have been in kindergarten. This is the grade that truly feels like home to her.
 
Being able to set the foundation for students and being part of their first exposure to school is important to her. Building relationships with her students has always been at the heart of her work. Knowing their interests and backgrounds help guide her instruction so that it is meaningful to them.
 
As an educator in Burke County, Laurie served as a grade chair and mentor teacher at WPS. She was also selected by HMH to have her literacy block recorded to help with their teacher training videos. Her classroom was also open to other teachers to come observe her small group literacy centers. She is known to some as “Coach Dickey” after coaching cheerleading (7 years) and tennis (13 years) at BCHS. Her proudest moment though was being selected by her peers at WPS as their TOTY and then by the committee to represent BCPS. She proudly displays her bell and apple in her classroom. It will be a moment that she will truly cherish forever.
 
Although she has moved and is teaching in a new county, she will forever and always be Bear Built! Her pride for BC always shines through! #proudtobeBC