LETTERS & RECOGNITION
WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT. MOMENTS OF RECOGNITION. A STORY THAT REACHED BEYOND ONE FAMILY.
Along Theo’s journey, messages of congratulations, encouragement, and recognition have arrived from public officials, community leaders, and others who learned his story. These letters and recognitions represent something deeply meaningful to Theo’s family: people took the time to acknowledge his achievement, his long-awaited graduation moment, and the journey that brought him there.
FEATURED RECOGNITION
THELONIOUS “THEO” STONER DAY
City of Valdosta, Georgia
Presented by Mayor Scott James Matheson
July 11, 2026
“The City of Valdosta proclaimed July 11, 2026, as ‘Thelonious “Theo” Stoner Day,’ recognizing Theo’s long-awaited graduation, his family’s perseverance, and the importance of inclusion, accessibility, dignity, and meaningful recognition of individuals with disabilities.”
CONGRATULATORY LETTERS & RECOGNITIONS
PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP
The White House
May 22, 2026
“A graduation message from President Donald J. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump congratulating Theo on his graduation and offering best wishes for his future.”
POPE LEO XIV — APOSTOLIC BLESSING
Apostolic Blessing
July 1, 2026
“An Apostolic Blessing requested for Thelonious ‘Theo’ Stoner on the occasion of his graduation, invoking the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and an abundance of divine graces.”
JOHN F. KENNEDY
Former Georgia State Senator — District 18
July 11, 2026
“A congratulatory letter recognizing Theo’s high school diploma, perseverance, and long-delayed recognition, and encouraging him and his family to celebrate the significance of his achievement.”
REPRESENTATIVE JOHN CORBETT
Georgia House District 174
“A congratulatory letter recognizing Theo’s graduation, resilience, and educational journey, while reflecting on the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of every graduate.”
SENATOR KAY KIRKPATRICK, M.D.
Georgia State Senate — District 32
Chair, Senate Children and Families Committee
June 22, 2026
“A congratulatory letter recognizing Theo’s graduation, his Valdosta High School Class of 2020 achievement, the significance of his delayed graduation ceremony, and the perseverance and family support surrounding his milestone.”
REPRESENTATIVE SAM PARK
Georgia House District 107
July 11, 2026
“A congratulatory letter recognizing Theo’s graduation, his family’s years of advocacy, and the importance of inclusion and dignity for students with disabilities. Representative Park also acknowledged the family’s work through Theo’s Law and wrote that he was committed to being part of the conversation as it moves forward.”
U.S. REPRESENTATIVE AUSTIN SCOTT
Georgia’s 8th Congressional District
June 2, 2026
“A congratulatory letter recognizing Theo’s high school graduation and the effort and determination shown by him and his family throughout his educational journey.”
SENATOR RUSS GOODMAN
Georgia State Senate — District 8
May 19, 2026
“A congratulatory letter recognizing Theo’s graduation and long-awaited celebration, his perseverance and determination, and the steadfast advocacy of his family. Senator Goodman also reflected on the importance of inclusion, compassion, and ensuring that every student has the opportunity to be recognized for their accomplishments.”