farragutpress

Martin, Walker named CCS valedictorian, salutatorian

April 1, 2026 by Tammy Cheek

Seniors Joseph Martin and Delaney Jane Walker take center stage at Concord Christian School as CCS’s valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively.

Graduating with a 4.58 grade-point average, Martin’s focus has been psychology on the pre-medical track. He plans to attend the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee, and pursue a career in private practice psychiatry.

“There is nothing more lovely than the sanctification that comes in Christ,” said Martin, the son of Jill and Timothy Holder and Robert and Jennifer Martin. “My time in high school was one of nearly exponential growth and happiness, and I can only encourage the same for others.”

At CCS, he was a member of the National Honors Society, Student Government Association, Marching Band, Key Club, Science Olympiad, Mock Trial Team, CCS Worship Team, Creative Writers Club and CCS Pep Band.

Additionally, Martin had a 35 ACT cumulative score and received the Association of Christian Schools International Distinguished Christian Student Award for Academics, ACSI Distinguished Christian Student Award for Fine Arts, a Science Olympiad Medalist and other numerous awards.

At the same time, he was band captain, Key Club treasurer, a Student Government Association representative and received two Superior Awards from East Tennessee School Band and Orchestra Association Solo and Ensemble.

As salutatorian, Walker, who majored in agricultural sciences at CCS, plans to attend University of Tennessee Knoxville; although, she is unsure of a future career at this time.

“I found my time in high school to be some of the best times of my life so far,” said the daughter of Daniel and Jenky Walker. “I found my best friends and have learned from the most incredible people.

“I am forever grateful that God placed me in Concord Christian School to deepen my relationship with Him and lean into a firm foundation focused on Him,” Walker said. “I can look back on these four years and see myself built up from a little piece of everyone who has poured into me and loved me so well. I am so thankful.

“Over the course of high school, I have been involved in the National Honor Society, Key Club, the National Spanish Honor Society and the Student Government Association, serving as vice president,” she said. “I am grateful to have been part of the high school soccer team, serving as captain; the high school basketball team; and Club Soccer.

“Over the years, I have been honored with the Top-Scholar Athlete award, Rookie of the year, All-district in soccer, All-region in soccer and All-state MVP in soccer,” Walker said.

Additionally, she is a graduate of the Student Leadership University and homecoming queen.