Lamar CISD Celebrates Class of 2026 Valedictorians and Salutatorians |
The Lamar CISD Class of 2026 represents more than academic achievement—it reflects a generation of students preparing to lead, serve, and make an impact far beyond the classroom.
From future engineers and physicians to artists, innovators, and public servants, these students represent the talent, determination, and leadership that define Lamar CISD. Together, they represent a district culture rooted in excellence, opportunity, and the belief that every student can achieve something meaningful.
These valedictorians and salutatorians have not only excelled academically—earning more than $15 million in scholarships and counting—but have also led organizations, served their communities, and built lasting connections along the way.
Their stories are from different walks of life, but the foundation is the same: a school community that has challenged them to think bigger, boldly, and has prepared them for a bright future ahead.
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Alan Liang, valedictorian of Foster High School, built his high school experience around curiosity and a willingness to try a little bit of everything. From leading in STEM-focused organizations like TSA and Robotics to serving as president of both the Pokémon Club and Tutoring Club, he found ways to turn his interests into opportunities to connect with others and stay involved. He also contributed as a wrestling team manager and volunteered at the Rosenberg Railroad Museum, showing that his impact reached beyond just academics.
He plans to attend The University of Texas at Austin to study computer science and artificial intelligence, with hopes of one day working for a major company such as Google. He also hopes to travel to places like Japan and Greece.
Whether he’s collecting and trading Pokémon cards, rock climbing, playing chess, or watching movies with friends, Alan enjoys exploring a wide range of interests. Some of his favorite high school memories came from simply spending time with others and finding balance outside of the classroom. He believes that staying patient and not getting discouraged by setbacks has helped him continue moving forward.
He credits his family, including his parents Feng Liang and Xiu Yan Zhu, along with his siblings, for their constant support. He also gives special thanks to Mr. Tovar for always being someone he could talk to and for encouraging him throughout his journey
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Jeet Parikh, salutatorian of Foster High School, created his high school experience around growth, discipline, and a willingness to step outside his comfort zone. He served as vice president of the Chemistry Club, participated in NHS and marching band, and completed more than 160 hours of volunteer service. Chemistry became his favorite subject, shaped in part by his experience in AP Chemistry with Mr. Herbst.
Guided by the mindset, “today I will do what others won’t, so tomorrow I will do what others can’t,” Jeet pushed himself to take risks and embrace challenges, growing more confident along the way.
He plans to attend The University of Texas at Austin to study biology on a pre-med track, with long-term goals of becoming a neurosurgeon and eventually owning a pharmaceutical company to help improve access to healthcare.
Traveling, cooking, gaming, and working out help him recharge, while the friendships he built remain the most meaningful part of his high school experience.
He expresses gratitude to his parents, Binita and Sanjay Parikh, for their sacrifices and support, and appreciates his sister and friends for always being there.
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Messy experiments, late afternoons, and a room full of students laughing and learning together became some of Jonathan Phung’s favorite high school memories. As valedictorian of Fulshear High School, he often looks back on the Chemistry Club meetings he hosted, where curiosity and collaboration turned into something meaningful.
Over time, he learned the value of connection, choosing to uplift others and create opportunities instead of waiting for them. He also came to understand that perfection can get in the way of progress, pushing himself to take risks and grow from failure.
That mindset carried into his leadership roles as co-president of Science Olympiad, founder of the Chemistry Club, and Academic UIL captain, where he helped build a culture centered on curiosity and shared success.
Jonathan will attend The University of Texas at Austin to study computer science, with plans to apply artificial intelligence to scientific challenges and continue mentoring students along the way.
He credits his mother, Trudy Nguyen-Phung, for the sacrifices she made to give him opportunities she never had, and recognizes Mrs. Salim, Science Olympiad sponsor, for her unwavering belief in him and support in leading the team to state. He carries with him the idea to “leave the world a little better than you found it,” a reminder of the impact he hopes to make.
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For Fulshear High School salutatorian Stephen Gerschefski, one mindset shaped everything: don’t stress too much, because in the end, everything works out. That perspective helped him stay grounded through the ups and downs of high school, reminding himself that even the worst-case scenario is rarely as bad as it seems.
That balance showed up in everything he did. From competing in JV football and soccer to serving as a team captain and staying involved in NHS and his church community, Stephen built his high school experience around consistency, discipline, and growth. Over time, he developed a stronger work ethic and learned the importance of learning from mistakes instead of repeating them.
Texas A&M University is next, where he plans to study engineering, still deciding between aerospace and nuclear. Physics became a favorite subject along the way, thanks in part to Mr. Carroll, whose classroom made learning both engaging and fun.
He credits Jesus Christ as the foundation of his journey and expresses gratitude to his parents, Charlie and Mary Gerschefski, for their constant support and sacrifice. He also recognizes Mr. Carroll, Coach Granger, and Ms. A for creating positive and impactful learning environments.
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Since his freshman year, Kee Chen says the biggest change has been learning how to stay consistent. As valedictorian of George Ranch High School, he moved away from last-minute work and focused on building better study habits and time management, which helped him stay on track academically. Over time, he also became more confident, taking on leadership roles and pushing himself to step outside his comfort zone.
He stayed involved across campus, serving as president of the Global Connections Club, competing as a top player on the golf team, and holding a leadership role in the Lion Dance Club. Those experiences helped him grow not just academically, but personally as well.
Kee plans to attend a four-year university on a pre-med track, majoring in biology, with the goal of becoming a physician. He hopes to gain clinical experience, participate in research, and continue building toward a career in medicine.
Outside of school, he enjoys lifting weights, golfing, and listening to music, while also valuing the friendships he built along the way.
He credits his mother, Chunlin Wang, for always believing in him, and his father, Dong Chen, for pushing him to work hard and do his best. He also recognizes Mrs. Chen and Coach D for helping him develop discipline, confidence, and resilience.
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“It always works out,” is the mindset that has shaped George Ranch High School salutatorian Mason Nguyen’s approach to challenges, reminding him not to dwell on setbacks, but to focus on what comes next. Whether facing tough grades or missed opportunities, he learned to stay focused on his goals and trust that each step forward would lead him where he needed to go.
That perspective has carried into everything he did. Mason served as head drum major and first chair trumpet, founded and led the Student Medical Society, and contributed as a public health researcher. His achievements include multiple TMEA Region Band honors, recognition as an AP Scholar with Distinction, and participation as a delegate at the Johns Hopkins Global Health Leaders Conference. He also dedicated his time to volunteering with Houston Methodist Hospital and a local nursing home.
He will attend Johns Hopkins University on the pre-med track, studying public health and molecular and cellular biology, with plans to pursue a career in pediatric oncology and make a meaningful impact in healthcare.
Music and leadership played a major role in his high school experience, where band became a space for both connection and growth. Outside of that, he enjoys exploring new places, playing multiple instruments, gaming, and spending time in nature.
He credits his parents, Lauren and Tai Nguyen, for giving him the freedom to grow into who he is, and expresses appreciation for his siblings and teachers along the way. He also recognizes Mrs. Cooper and his band directors for their encouragement and lasting impact.
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Lamar Consolidated High School |
For Julienne Claire Tabilog Bella, success goes beyond achievement—it’s about impact. As valedictorian of Lamar Consolidated High School, she built her high school experience around leadership, creativity, and service, taking on roles in the Technology Student Association, Student Council, and NASA High School Aerospace Scholars program. Through those experiences, she not only developed technical skills, but also learned how to lead with purpose and connect with others in meaningful ways.
She plans to attend Duke University to study mechanical engineering, while remaining open to exploring other areas such as biomedical or aerospace engineering as she continues to grow. Looking ahead, she hopes to take part in research opportunities, build lasting connections, and continue discovering new passions both inside and outside the classroom.
Julienne is especially driven by a desire to give back. As a woman entering a traditionally male-dominated field, she hopes to use her voice to uplift and inspire other young women pursuing careers in STEM, becoming the kind of role model she once wished she had. She also hopes to travel the world and serve communities in need, including places like the Philippines, where her family’s story began.
Her creativity carries into her daily life through crochet, digital art, graphic design, and CAD modeling, outlets that allow her to express herself and bring ideas to life.
She credits her parents, Jamuel and Orchid Bella, for their sacrifices, resilience, and unwavering support, and recognizes Mr. Oliver and Mrs. Duran for the encouragement and guidance that helped shape her journey.
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Staying involved became second nature for Joshua Thomas during his time at Lamar Consolidated High School. As salutatorian, he took on leadership roles across multiple organizations, serving as president and treasurer of TSA, vice president of NHS, and treasurer for both Student Council and the Asian American Culture Club. Through those roles, he learned how to lead, stay organized, and balance responsibilities while contributing to a strong sense of community on campus. He also remained active in DECA, continuing to challenge himself in new areas.
He plans to attend The University of Texas at Austin to study computer science, with long-term goals of becoming a software engineer and pursuing a master’s degree.
Some of his most meaningful moments came from time spent after school with friends and teachers, where everyday conversations turned into lasting memories. Whether on the basketball court or playing pool, those connections made his high school experience feel more personal and rewarding. He believes in staying consistent, putting in the work, and trusting that results will come with time.
He credits his parents, Jacob and Jomol Thomas, along with his brothers Joel and Jonathan, for being a constant source of support through every challenge. He also expresses deep appreciation for Mrs. Miller, whose willingness to go above and beyond for her students made a lasting impact. Through the many clubs she supported and the time she invested in students, she created an environment where he always felt included, supported, and motivated to stay involved.
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Faith and perspective have played a major role in shaping Feyintola Fakorede’s journey. As valedictorian of Dr. Thomas E. Randle High School, she leaned on the belief that “If God is for me, who can be against me?”—a mindset that helped her stay grounded during moments of uncertainty and continue moving forward with confidence. Over time, she says she has grown more open-minded, more grateful, and ultimately happier in who she is.
That growth showed up in everything she did. Feyintola stayed deeply involved across campus, serving as vice president of the African Student Association, secretary of TRHS4TEENS, and co-captain of the varsity tennis team, where she dedicated more than 1,000 hours. She was also active in track and field, volleyball, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and several student organizations, consistently finding ways to stay engaged and connected.
She will attend Texas A&M University to study electrical and computer engineering with a minor in business, with plans to become a medical device engineer and combine her passion for problem-solving with helping others.
Whether trying new foods with friends, baking, or spending time on the tennis court, Feyintola values the moments that bring balance and joy. She credits her parents, Oludayo and Olusola Fakorede, for their sacrifices and support, along with her siblings, friends, and community who encouraged her along the way. She also recognizes Mr. T for helping her rediscover her love for math and pushing her to go above and beyond.
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“Everything will be okay in the end. If it’s not okay, it’s not the end.” That idea stayed with Amyn Aslam Lakhani throughout high school, helping him keep things in perspective and not get overwhelmed by setbacks.
He took on leadership roles that reflected that approach, serving as class president for the Class of 2026 and staying involved in HOSA, National Honor Society, and Model United Nations. Outside of school, he also stepped into leadership within his community as an events calendar lead and center tour guide, building connections and learning how to serve others in different ways.
Over time, he learned how to trust himself more, speak up, and not be too hard on himself when things didn’t go as planned—lessons that shaped both his mindset and how he approached challenges.
He plans to attend The University of Texas at Austin on the pre-med track, majoring in public health, with the goal of building a meaningful career and giving back to his community.
Time spent reading, watching TV, and being around friends became some of the most memorable parts of his high school experience, reminding him to stay balanced and enjoy the moment.
He expresses gratitude to his parents, Shahnaz and Aslam Lakhani, for their constant support and sacrifices. He also recognizes Mr. Yarber for guiding him through the college application process and helping him feel prepared for what comes next.
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For Jae Lorynn Bradshaw, success in high school came from focusing inward rather than comparing herself to others. As valedictorian of Terry High School, she says she never set out with the goal of reaching the top of her class. After starting as salutatorian and later dropping in rank, she chose to stay focused on her own growth, holding herself to a high standard instead of measuring her progress against anyone else. That mindset ultimately led her to where she is today.
She stayed actively involved across campus, participating in softball and tennis, serving in Student Council, and taking on a leadership role in HOSA as Shadowing Director. Through both athletics andacademics, she built confidence and learned how to stay consistent in her efforts.
Jae will attend Texas State University to pursue a degree in nursing, with plans to continue her education at Texas Woman’s University to become a women’s health nurse practitioner. She hopes to make a meaningful impact by improving women’s healthcare and increasing awareness around health and wellness in communities.
Reading, puzzles, and music give her time to unwind, while her involvement in sports and organizations made her high school experience especially memorable.
She credits her parents, Rebecca and Jermane Bradshaw, for their support and encouragement, and recognizes Coach John Younker for being a steady and supportive presence throughout her journey.
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Angel Miranda Arroyo’s work as an artist has already reached far beyond the classroom. As salutatorian of B.F. Terry High School, he earned recognition across local, state, and national levels, including multiple first-place finishes in art competitions, perfect scores in visual arts events, and opportunities to showcase his work in museum exhibits and public showcases. His art often reflects his heritage and explores deeper societal themes, giving his work both purpose and voice.
He stayed involved across campus through tennis, National Honor Society, Terry Theatre Company, and community programs like The Woods Project and College Community Center, building connections that helped shape both his creativity and confidence.
Angel will attend the University of North Texas to study fine arts with a concentration in painting, with plans to potentially explore fashion design as well. He hopes to use his work to highlight important issues and connect with others in meaningful ways.
Outside of school, he enjoys painting, collecting physical media, and exploring different creative outlets. One of his most memorable moments came during a theatre production, when peers and guests surprised him with a birthday celebration on stage, a moment that reminded him how much his community supported him.
He expresses gratitude to his parents, Maria Arroyo and Samuel Miranda, and gives special thanks to Mrs. Benita W. Gill and Dr. Joan Maresh Hansen for creating spaces where he felt encouraged to grow, express himself, and push his artistic limits.
Each of these students carries forward more than achievements—they carry the values that helped shape them. From late nights studying and leading with integrity, to stepping outside their comfort zone, their journeys reflect what it means to think big and strive for excellence. Along the way, they’ve learned lessons that go beyond academics, finding joy in friendships, growth in challenges, and purpose in what comes next. Together, they represent the heart of Lamar CISD.
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