Valedictorians and Salutatorians Are Welcomed

ALBANY – James Skoufis (D-Orange County) welcomed graduating valedictorians and salutatorians from schools across his Orange County district on Monday, May 22, an annual tradition that gives students a chance to be recognized for their accomplishments and to see the state’s historic Capitol building in Albany.

Students achieving the first and second rank from 13 different high schools were treated to lunch, a tour of the Capitol, a presentation of certificates of achievement, and a formal introduction by Senator Skoufis in the chamber. Parents, family members, and some faculty and administration were also in attendance.

“This has to be one of my favorite legislative days of the year,” noted Skoufis, himself an alum of Monroe-Woodbury High School. “These students have worked tirelessly throughout their academic career, striving for and achieving excellence–and it paid off. It was my pleasure to welcome them, to share the beauty and grandeur of these halls with them and their families, and to highlight their accomplishments before my colleagues. Orange County’s future is bright.”

Students in attendance included:
Chester Academy: Vincent Im, Valedictorian; Seungju (Sera) Hong, Salutatorian
Cornwall Central High School: Karina Liba, Valedictorian; Morgan Gagnon, Salutatorian
George F. Baker High School: Parker Givens, Salutatorian
Goshen Central High School: Ana Loter, Valedictorian; Serena Yeddu, Salutatorian
James I. O’Neill High School: Jeremy Stoll, Valedictorian; Chloe Gilland, Salutatorian; Lilian Bentley, Salutatorian
Middletown High School: Juliana Speckenbach, Valedictorian; Austin Baringer, Salutatorian
Minisink Valley High School: Kory Dixon, Valedictorian
Monroe-Woodbury High School: Madeline Williams, Valedictorian; Jamie Calub, Salutatorian
Pine Bush High School: Rebecca Magnetico, Valedictorian; Colby Zupetz, Salutatorian
Port Jervis High School: Zachery Imhoff, Valedictorian; Rachel Duryea, Salutatorian
S.S. Seward Institute: Timothy Raines, Valedictorian; Joseph Santiago, Salutatorian
Warwick Valley High School: Thomas Kanz, Valedictorian; Trevor Stevens, Salutatorian
Washingtonville High School: Jacqueline Brienza, Salutatorian