By: Shallon S. Gonlor |
shallonsgonlor@gmail.com
Favor H. Dolley, a graduate of Noah’s Ark High School, says she takes full responsibility for her actions after a photograph showing her smoking while wearing her graduation gown went viral on social media on Friday, October 23, 2026.
Student Dolley’s actions reportedly prompted the school’s administration to withhold her school documents following widespread public reactions to the photograph.
Speaking about the incident, Ms. Dolley admitted that smoking while wearing her graduation gown was inappropriate, explaining that her excitement over completing high school had overwhelmed her judgment.
“I was not supposed to smoke while wearing my school gown, but I was so excited to see myself graduating from high school. I was carried away by emotional happiness. It was not intentional,” she said.
However, Dolley acknowledged that her decision has resulted in consequences she did not anticipate, leaving her struggling with criticism and messages from friends and members of the public.
“I am now regretting the aftermath of my decision. I am having a difficult time. I am in trouble right now, and I am depressed. I want to say sorry. I am sorry to everyone, especially my school. I am deeply sorry,” she expressed.
The Noah’s Ark High School graduate also directed an apology to the school’s principal, Mr. Joseph D. Bestman, emphasizing that she had learned from the incident and regretted the embarrassment her actions may have caused the institution.
“To my school principal, Mr. Joseph D. Bestman, I have learned from my mistake,” Dolley said.
She further disclosed that the situation has become emotionally challenging, citing the numerous messages and reactions she has received from friends and other individuals following the circulation of the photograph.
“I am going through a lot of psychological trauma, from friends’ messages and people texting me,” she added.
The incident has drawn attention to the responsibilities associated with graduation ceremonies and the importance of exercising sound judgment during significant milestones in students’ lives.
For Dolley, what was intended to be a moment of excitement and celebration has turned into a difficult personal experience, as she faces the consequences of a decision she now openly regrets.
