Days before he was set to start his senior year, Reuben Culpepper Hinsdale was involved in a fatal accident on Independence Station Road. Reuben was a JROTC cadet, member of the Simon Kenton archery and academic teams, and former SK football player. Reuben will be remembered as many things: a brother to Elizabeth, Evan, and Waylon; as a son to Vanessa, Shannon, and Brittany; a beloved friend and teammate; and as an organ donor. He was kind-hearted, funny,  fiercely passionate, and extremely protective over those he cared about. 

His absence feels a little heavier as graduation preparations begin. Reuben should be joining us for senior activities, graduation practice, the ceremony, and for the celebrations and parties afterwards. But he’s not. We can’t change what happened in August, or wipe away the grief caused by his loss. However, there is something we can do. We can honor and remember Reuben the way he deserves to be. 

With your support, we can convince the administration to let Reuben symbolically participate in graduation with his classmates and friends. Reuben’s seat should be left open for him, with what should be his cap and gown laid over it. His name should be read, even if he can’t walk across the stage.

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