Tri-Valley Central School District is proud to announce the valedictorian and salutatorian for the graduating Class of 2025. This year’s top honors go to valedictorian William Seward and salutatorian Jenna Carmody, both of whom have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and dedication throughout their high school careers.
Academic Excellence and Dedication
William Seward, the Class of 2025 valedictorian, earned an impressive GPA of 99.20. Reflecting on his journey, Seward shared that his motivation to pursue valedictorian honors started during his freshman and sophomore years when he realized he was among the top students. From then on, he worked diligently to maintain his standing. Jenna Carmody, salutatorian with a GPA of 97.50, discovered her drive for academic excellence last year and remained committed to sustaining her high performance.
Both students balanced their rigorous academic schedules with extracurricular activities by maximizing productivity during school hours. “I do most of my work in school, then focus on sports afterward,” Seward said. Carmody echoed a similar sentiment, stating, “I try to limit having to bring anything home and do everything in school as much as possible.”
Both found challenges in their coursework, with Seward noting pre-calculus and physics as particularly tough subjects, while Carmody identified physics as her biggest hurdle. However, their determination and study habits allowed them to excel despite these difficulties.
Personal Growth and Reflection
Beyond academics, high school provided both students with invaluable life lessons. When asked what advice they would give their freshman selves, Seward emphasized the importance of effort: “Spend the extra time putting in a little extra effort—it goes such a long way. Your work is a reflection of you.”
Seward attributes much of his success to Mr. McCauliff, whom he admires for his vast knowledge, as well as his mother, who has always pushed him to do his best. Carmody credits her parents, who never accepted anything less than her full potential, along with Ms.Brooks, whom she describes as a “school parent” who is always there to offer guidance and support.
When reflecting on their high school experiences, Seward described his journey as “progressive,” while Carmody called hers “unforgettable.” Their favorite memories range from Seward’s time working in a tech internship to Carmody’s thrilling basketball section championship victory.
Bright Futures Ahead
Looking toward the future, Seward plans to attend Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, where he will major in cognitive science and possibly dual major in biomedical or mechanical engineering. He will also participate in the Navy ROTC program, which provides a scholarship and a pathway to becoming a Navy officer, with aspirations to work in research and development, focusing on robotic prosthetics and AI-driven bionic technology.
Carmody will be attending SUNY New Paltz, where she will play softball and study finance. Her goal is to work in a financial firm as an analyst, managing investments for clients. While Seward is eager to explore opportunities outside the region, Carmody hopes to stay semi-local and return home to visit often.
Leaving a Lasting Impact
As they prepare for graduation, both students hope to be remembered by their classmates. Seward wishes to be recognized for his strong work ethic, while Carmody wants to be remembered for her positivity and constant smile.
Tri-Valley Central School District extends its heartfelt congratulations to William Seward and Jenna Carmody on their remarkable achievements and wishes them success in all their future endeavors.
Pictured above: Valedictorian William Seward and Salutatorian Jenna Carmody