Oxford High School’s Vis1on students were feted at a year-end luncheon at The Studio at OPAC on Friday, May 1, 2026. Vis1on is a program that allows high school students to regularly meet with city and business leaders to discuss and develop ideas that can improve the lives of Oxford's citizens.
“We had some great opportunities for students this year and you guys did a great job,” said Vis1on co-coordinator and CREATE director of partnerships and support Lorie Denton. “Several of you have already come up with ideas for next year and that is super exciting.”
Oxford Fire Chief and Vis1on co-coordinator Ben Stewart added his appreciation for the students’ participation. “Thank you for all your effort and ideas,” Stewart said. “We hope you enjoyed your experience this year and we hope to continue this tradition. And for the seniors, you are still part of the Oxford family. So next year, feel free to come by and talk to the others and share the message about Vis1on.” Over the past school year, Vis1on students developed and created ways to better showcase the city’s emergency services, Choccolocco Park’s Fitness Court, opportunities provided by CREATE, and produced a student talent show as part of the Oxford Performing Arts Center’s “10x10” series.
Mayor Alton Craft offered his appreciation for the work students put into the year’s projects.
“You deserve all the accolades because you are a tremendous group of folks,” Craft said. “This is your community. It is your city and you will be in charge of it in just a few years. I’ll be leaving it in good hands.”
The students were then provided entertainment by encore performances from the “Future Famous: OHS Student Showcase,” which was held on April 16, 2026, at the Oxford Performing Arts Center. The production was one of Vis1on’s projects for the year.
Council president Chris Spurlin said this was his first year being able to participate in the Vis1on program. “I was really impressed,” Spurlin told the students. “I really enjoyed seeing the vision and the input from all of you and the care you have for our city wanting to make it the best that it can be.”
School superintendent Dr. Todd Haynie, who was promoted to that position March 16, also experienced his first year being involved in the program. “Vis1on is something that is new to me,” Haynie said. “I look forward to getting more in tune with the group and being a part of everything we have going on here in the city – not only in the school district but in the community. My door is always open if you want to talk with ideas about how we can do things better.”
Certificates and ceremonial cords were presented to the students prior being served a taco buffet from Hubbard’s Off Main.