Madison Reporter

Capital High School seniors Zhyrie Lofton and Tamariona Winzer are preparing for graduation with a shared commitment to their friendship. Despite the alphabetical seating arrangement keeping them apart during the ceremony, they remain close.

Lofton humorously suggested, “I’ll change my name to Lhyrie Zofton that day.” The two met in middle school and reunited at Capital High after Lofton's temporary move out of state. "You need somebody to lean on," Lofton stated.

The friends will attend Madison College in the fall, having earned college credits through a dual-credit program. Lofton aims to become a realtor, inspired by family members, while Winzer plans to study phlebotomy.

Their support for each other has been key to their academic achievements. "We see what the other one can’t see in themself," they noted together. Winzer received a scholarship from Rubin for Kids and an Outstanding Young Person Award at the 2024 Martin Luther King, Jr. Youth Recognition Breakfast.

Winzer excels in math while Lofton finds strength in English with teacher Erin Beehner's support. "She’s always there for me," said Lofton of Beehner's guidance.

They also acknowledge family liaison Tanisha Milligan and counselor Marianne Matt for their roles in their success, despite Matt confirming they wouldn't sit together at graduation. Lofton emphasized staying positive: “It’s when you think negatively that things can really go downhill.”