On Friday, April 22, the Student Government Association (SGA) put on a Pep Rally to celebrate the crowning of this year’s prom king and queen in preparation for Robinson’s first prom in two years. Dylan Carson, Gunnar Gibson, Malachi Hill, and Sam Valenti were the nominees for this year’s king, while Jocelyn Carron, Christal Rolack, Joleyne Rodriguez and Mattie Ward were the queen nominees.

The vote came to a close tie, but as the tension built up, it was announced that Malachi Hill and Mattie Ward will be Robinson’s 2022 prom king and queen.

“I remember the feeling of being nervous and to hear my name called out in front of the whole school was just a big relief,” Hill said. “It felt like I was on Cloud 9.”

Ward was also surprised when she heard her name being called over the big speakers. Many have told her that she was for sure going to win. Despite all the support, she didn’t let this get in her head and still treated all of her fellow nominees with respect.

“When I won prom queen, I was so shocked,” Ward said. “Malachi and I were both stressing before we walked out and hearing the announcer say my name for queen was so calming. I am so thankful for everyone who voted for me.”

Hill decided to run for king because he thought it would be one last “bang” before leaving high school, but he did admit that while he had fun, it was a lot of work.

“The coronation process was stressful,” Hill said. “I think I had a decent chance at winning but never underestimated my opponents. They’re all good guys with plenty of friends. I’m just happy for the people who decided to vote for me.”

Additionally, Ward was grateful she got the opportunity to be a part of this process. She voiced how running for prom queen has even helped her make new connections and build her confidence when it comes to talking to new people, which helped her in the long run.

While running for queen taught her several valuable life lessons, just like Hill, she also admitted it was a lot to manage on top of her school work at times.

“To be honest I started campaigning for prom queen since homecoming.,” she had said. “It was definitely stressful but worth all of the hard work. The other candidates did have me a little worried, but at the end of the day If I didn’t win everything would’ve been alright.”

Hill will be attending University of Central Florida in the fall while Ward will be traveling to Baton Rouge, LA to attend Southern University and A&M College.

“My favorite part about Robinson would have to be cheering at football games,” Ward said. “I’ve cheered at pretty much every varsity game since freshman year and I am so thankful for the experience. From tumbling in front of the crowd to hyping everyone up I will never forget my high school football experience.”