FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ripley High School and Ripley Middle School Win National Championship in SkillsUSA Opening and Closing Ceremonies
Atlanta, GA – June 27, 2025
Ripley High School and Ripley Middle School have made history at the 2025 SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, by bringing home the national championship in the Opening and Closing Ceremonies competition.
The prestigious event, which showcases leadership, teamwork, and public speaking skills, brought together top teams from across the nation. The Ripley teams demonstrated exceptional poise, professionalism, and precision, earning them the top honors in this highly competitive category.
A significant part of this success can be credited to the unwavering support and leadership of SkillsUSA sponsor Tabitha Donohew. Her guidance, encouragement, and countless hours of preparation played a vital role in shaping the team’s success. Ms. Donohew’s commitment to student growth, character development, and excellence continues to elevate the SkillsUSA program at both Ripley Middle and High Schools.
Jackson County Schools Superintendent Will Hosaflook praised the students and their mentors: “We are incredibly proud of our Ripley Middle and High School SkillsUSA teams. This national championship reflects the strength of our programs, the talent of our students, and the commitment of our educators to preparing young leaders for success beyond the classroom.”
The victory is not only a milestone for the Ripley SkillsUSA chapter but also a proud moment for the entire state of West Virginia.