Congratulations to Yeji Lee, who was named valedictorian of the Class of 2019. Along with being an active member of the school community as the Vice President of the Student Council and Vice President of the National Honor Society, Yeji excelled both in the classroom and in extracurricular activities. She was a member of the Independent Science Research Club, received a first Place Presentation Award at the Medical Marvels Competition, and was awarded multiple academic distinctions, including the Bausch & Lomb Honorary Science Award.

Yeji attributes her much of her academic success to the example set by her parents, who immigrated to the United States. She comments that she works every day to make them proud because they’ve always supported her and encouraged her to follow her dreams.

Looking towards the future, Yeji said, “I can’t wait to step out of my comfort zone and into other areas of study. There are so many things I have yet to discover, and that excites me.”

Yeji also commented on the bittersweet nature of leaving the community of Elwood. “It will be difficult to leave such a welcoming, friendly, and close-knit group of amazing individuals. Elwood is undoubtedly a unique community, and I am extremely grateful to be able to call it my home.

Yeji will be attending Yale University in the fall to pursue the Pre-Med track of Neuroscience.

Class of 2019 Salutatorian Olivia Kelly knows her accomplishment is no accident; attributing her academic success to self-motivation and drive to succeed. During her high school career, she served as captain of the track team in both winter and spring seasons, ran cross country, and participated in many community service-focused clubs like Habitat for humanity. Olivia also held a part-time job and worked hard to prioritize her academic studies. Regardless of her busy schedule, Oliva accomplished excellence in many areas, such as being named a ten-time Scholar Athlete and the NYS Scholarship for Academic Excellence.

“Since middle school, I’ve always had a high standard for myself, and throughout high school I have taught myself to stick to these standards,” she said. “Knowing the importance of my priorities is how I have been able to achieve my goals.”

Olivia is excited for a new start, but knows she will miss the Elwood community dearly.” So many relationships I made were my constant support system,” she said. “The friendships I have made have left a lasting impact on me, and I will be forever grateful for the close relationships the Elwood school system has allowed me to develop.”

Olivia will be attending Farmingdale State College in the fall as a nursing major.

Congratulations and best wishes for the future!