Craven County Schools Celebrates 39th Annual All Academic Banquet

On Tuesday, April 1, 2025, Craven County Schools proudly honored 187 outstanding seniors from all high schools at the 39th Annual All Academic Banquet. These students have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement by maintaining a 4.0 or higher GPA. The event took place at the Riverfront Convention Center of Craven County.

The Craven County Board of Education was delighted to celebrate this elite group of scholars alongside their families in a special awards ceremony that recognized their dedication to academic excellence.

Keynote Speaker: Dr. Reide Corbett

This year’s keynote speaker was Dr. Reide Corbett, a distinguished coastal oceanographer and marine geochemist with deep roots in coastal North Carolina. Growing up in Havelock fostered his love for the environment, shaping his future in oceanography and coastal research.

Dr. Corbett is a proud graduate of Havelock High School. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Ph.D. in Oceanography from Florida State University before furthering his career at Tulane University and eventually returning to North Carolina to join East Carolina University (ECU).

Currently, Dr. Corbett serves as the Dean of Integrated Coastal Programs, the Executive Director of the Coastal Studies Institute (CSI), and a professor in the Department of Coastal Studies at ECU. His extensive research spans from North Carolina to Puerto Rico, New Zealand to the Antarctic, focusing on:

·       The movement of soils from the coastal plain to the continental shelf through estuarine systems.

·       The impact of farming fertilizers on groundwater chemistry and coastal waters.

·       Natural and human-driven changes shaping coastal landscapes, including the effects of storms, sea level rise, and boat wakes.

With research conducted across all seven continents, Dr. Corbett considers two areas particularly breathtaking: the Western Antarctic Peninsula and the Outer Banks, both of which vividly illustrate the effects of climate change.

Musical Performances & Special Recognition

Guests enjoyed a special pre-event musical performance by the New Bern High School Band as well as a featured selection during the event. Thank you to the West Craven High School JROTC for their presentation of the colors and pledge of allegiance.

For nearly four decades, the All Academic Banquet has remained a signature event celebrating the academic excellence of Craven County’s students. Each high school was well represented, and this event serves as a testament to the dedication and hard work of our students, educators, and families.

To view this year's honorees, visit: https://bit.ly/All-Academic-Slideshow-25