STEUBENVILLE — Three Steubenville High School alumni were recognized for their accomplishments and community contributions Friday during a yearly, student-led assembly that showcased the talents of students.

Commemorating Black History Month, SHS presented its 33rd-annual Pathfinders Assembly in the high school auditorium. The assembly serves to acknowledge the achievements of graduates and community members in the fields of humanitarianism, business, education, government or citizenship.

Recognized this year were Marcus McGhee Sr., Class of 1986; Jack Thornton Jr., Class of 1971, and Cierra Jones, Class of 2013. The assembly, which was directed by current SHS students, highlighted student performers and winners of a multi-grade essay competition among district schools.

“It is great to convene this wonderful event that recognizes and celebrates Big Red graduates and district and community leaders who give back to our school and city while providing excellent role models to all in attendance,” said SHS student Julissa Green at the event’s start. “All Pathfinders honorees have contributed to and enhanced the fabric and culture of our community.”

The assembly also aims to showcase the “immense talent, passion and diversity of Steubenville High School” through student performances and production contributions, Green said. Students’ willingness to assist with the assembly demonstrates “the unique culture that exists at Big Red and Steubenville City Schools in general.”

ESSAYISTS — Friday’s 33rd-annual Pathfinders Assembly at Steubenville High School recognized winners of a district-wide Martin Luther King Jr. essay competition. From left are Sydney Reid, SHS; Oliver Andrews, East Garfield Elementary; Kali Carter, Wells Academy; Ella King, McKinley STEM Academy; Johnnie Ray Lester, Pugliese West Elementary School; and Benjamin Klepack and Braylon Hayden, Harding Middle School. -- Christopher Dacanay

After Green led the Pledge of Allegiance, fellow students Gianna Barker and Trymia Mayo sang a rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” commonly referred to as the Negro National Anthem.

Hayden Hicks introduced special guests at the assembly, including representatives from the SCS Board of Education and district school principals. Afterward, Myles Cooper acknowledged the “hundreds” of Pathfinders honored throughout the assembly’s 33-year history, having begun in 1992.

Makina Barlow and SHS Assistant Principal Aaron Newman presented awards to winners of an annual, district-wide essay competition. Offering $100 to each winner through the Steubenville Martin Luther King Jr. Association, the competition challenged students from each school to reflect on King’s civil rights movement impact and his quote: “Darkness cannot put out darkness. Only light can do that.”

This year’s winners included Oliver Andrews, fourth grade, East Garfield Elementary School; Kali Carter, third grade, Wells Academy; Ella King, third-grade, McKinley STEM Academy; Johnnie Ray Lester, second grade, Pugliese West Elementary School, and Benjamin Klepack, sixth grade, and Braylon Hayden, eighth grade, Harding Middle School.

SHS 10th-grader Sydney Reid read aloud her essay, which won her first place among SHS students. In her essay, Reid reflected on King’s philosophy of nonviolent resistance and the ability of love to triumph over injustice and hatred.

“If we do decide to accept truth and love in our own lives, we can contribute to a brighter, more compassionate world,” Reid said.

Next, students introduced the 2025 Pathfinders Award recipients, who were chosen by a Black History Month/Pathfinders committee made up of SCS administrators, instructional and support staff and community members.

Kyleigh Hopkins introduced McGhee, an achiever in the field of education. A defensive back and running back on the 1984 state championship Big Red football team, McGhee has 31 years of experience in the classroom and 28 years as a licensed teacher. McGhee currently serves at Cincinnati Public Schools and has spearheaded a number of academic, recreational and athletic programs for youth in the city.

McGhee, who has a master’s degree in education administration, acknowledged those who taught him how to “live and thrive,” including friends, coaches, teachers and family members. McGhee’s focus has primarily been following the plan set forth for him by God, he said.

“I am a firm believer that it takes a community to build a person and to help a person become successful,” McGhee said. “I truly appreciate the adults in my childhood and the community they created for me.”

Noah West introduced Thornton, an achiever in the field of humanitarianism. Founder of the Warren Striders Track Club, Thornton is a retired educator and coach for Warren City Schools, where he served at all three high schools. He is an award-winning senior Olympian and coach at his alma maters Steubenville High School and Franciscan University of Steubenville.

Thornton, who has a master’s degree in African American studies, resides in Warren but said he’s proud to have circled back to coach in Steubenville. He emphasized self-discipline and dedication as keys to success, and he told listeners to work hard and encourage others.

“The idea of giving something back is part of the motto that I use: ‘Each one, teach one, and always give something back.'”

Analesa Perdue introduced Jones, an achiever in the field of humanitarianism. Jones — who was active in Key Club, band, choir and track at SHS — pursued a career in education, working as a teacher or coach while studying for her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. She has served as head cheerleading coach at SHS and led the team to three consecutive state championships.

Now the assistant principal at Harding Middle School, Jones expressed gratitude for the award and for the support she’s received from family, friends and colleagues. She also thanked the students she’s taught or coached, who motivate her to continue her work.

“To be recognized as a Pathfinder is a reminder that education is not just about teaching subjects,” Jones said. “It is about empowering the next generation to dream beyond boundaries and ensuring that every student — no matter their background or their circumstances — has the access to the tools, opportunities and encouragement that they need to succeed. It means believing in potential before it is realized and championing voices before they are fully formed.”

Attendees also witnessed three performances: Student Jayden Cooper, who sang Lauren Daigle’s “You Say,” SHS alumnus and percussion instructor Elisha “Platinum” Fletcher, who rapped original songs “In My Bag” and “Give You Better,” and student Jasmine Wooden, who performed a mime routine set to “Lead Me On” by Chandler Moore.

Jasmine Gregory offered closing remarks, saying, “Black History Month should serve as a reminder that … appreciation extends beyond February. Black history challenges us to amplify our voices, uplift communities and ensure progress is continuous. It is through understanding and respect that we create a more inclusive and equitable future for all. … We are proud of the leaders of our community who are paving the way to a brighter future for all young people.”