Fayette High School announced former teacher Deana Bartholomew as the featured speaker for this year’s graduation ceremony, which will be held at  2 p.m. on Sunday, May 17, in the FHS gymnasium.

Bartholomew taught middle school science from 2018 to 2022 and served as Student Council sponsor. During her time at Fayette, she was dedicated to fostering student curiosity, leadership, and engagement both inside and outside the classroom.

She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Physical Fitness from the University of Missouri–Columbia and is currently working toward a master's degree in Instructional Technology and Design, which she expects to complete in July.

Bartholomew now serves as a business support specialist in the Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Division at the University of Missouri, where her work contributes to supporting critical healthcare services for children and families.

She and her husband, Scott, are the proud parents of two sons, Isaac and Tyler. Bartholomew values the balance of family, career, and continued education, bringing a well-rounded perspective to her work and community.

Area graduation dates include Central Methodist University on Saturday; New Franklin on Sunday, May 10; Higbee on Friday, May 15; and Glasgow and Harrisburg on Sunday, May 17.

The Advertiser will publish the annual Graduation Edition featuring graduating seniors from Fayette, Glasgow, New Franklin, Harrisburg, and Higbee along with next week’s newspaper.