14 Valedictorians Announced In Malibu

MALIBU, CA — At a time of pandemics, protests, and now fires, here’s some good news: Malibu High School announced 14 valedictorians Friday.

Unlike other schools who elect the one student with the highest GPA to be valedictorian, MHS awards valedictorian status to any senior who has received A’s in all of their subjects for all four years of high school.

Principal Patrick Miller said that 14 valedictorians is above average.

“We are extremely proud of all 144 of our graduating seniors,” said Miller. “The class of 2020 is a smart and talented group and we are excited for their many future successes. This individual honor recognizes these fourteen students' incredible commitment to their learning. To earn valedictorian, these students had to earn/achieve an 'A' grade in all coursework, all 4 years. This accomplishment is no easy feat! Their academic success was a result of a lot of hard work and studying, an inquisitive mind-frame, determination and intrinsic motivation to succeed, and an ability to stay organized and focused on their learning."

MHS has decided to hold an in-person graduation ceremony at a date still to be determined, but this week is full of other celebrations. On Tuesday, students will drive to school in their cap and gown to pick up their diplomas, and on Wednesday, students will celebrate a final Zoom session together.

MHS counselors Katie Dahm and Makenna Samsel have written about each of the 2020 valedictorians. Patch has added their college matriculations in italics:

Samantha DeNicola is a natural leader with a “can do” attitude. She’s goal oriented, tenacious, and has a commitment to lifelong learning. She has the ability to take concepts form multiple disciplines to solve problems both inside and outside the classroom. Her dedication to her community is very remarkable. DeNicola will attend the University of Southern California next year.

Esme Bolander is highly intelligent, hardworking, and compassionate. She cares deeply about the world and her place in it. She is friendly, kind, and inspiring. Her heart leads her towards service and she has dedicated much of her time helping those in need. Bolander will attend Brigham Young University.

Aaron Bond is a responsible and caring role model. He is a talented musician, has a great sense of humor and works hard to succeed. He doesn’t take life for granted and is always spreading his positive attitude and helping others. Bond will attend Pepperdine University.

Ashyln Kunnerth is clever, creative and a wonderful performing artist and musician. She puts her all into everything she does with gusto and care. Ashlyn is mature beyond her years and possesses the traits of resiliency, empathy, and leadership. She cares about real-world issues and dedicates her time to support the greater good. Kunnerth will attend Georgetown University.

Jade King has a large hunger for life, learning, and happiness. She sets high goals for herself and works very hard on anything she sets her mind to. She’s a dedicated athlete, scholar and friend who is always making the world a better place through her commitment to service. King will attend University of California-Los Angeles.

Lana King is humble, caring and kind, which allows her to create meaningful relationships with those around her. She’s goal oriented and determined to accomplish any task at hand. Her intellectual capability is strong as well has her commitment to service and athletics. King will attend University of California-Los Angeles.

Charles Beck is an intellectual, scholar and leader. He is intelligent and curious about the world around him. He hopes to be a professor, and will no doubt be an inspiration to the next generation of students to share his knowledge and skills to help others and make the world a better place. Beck will attend Columbia University.

Xavier Commerford is a stellar student with remarkable talent especially in the areas of math and science. He’s also a leader in the classroom, with his peers, and on the soccer field. He cares about others and He will always embrace an opportunity to think outside the box and find solutions to any challenges. Commerford will attend University of California-Los Angeles.

Kendal Ferguson is incredibly responsible, empathetic, and creative. She’s highly intelligent, driven and goal-oriented. Whether it’s helping humans, animals, or the environment, she pours her heart into whatever sets her mind to. She has a tremendous sense of compassion and caring for the world around her. Ferguson will attend Northwestern University.

Jibriel Taha is an outstanding student who constantly helps his teammates and classmates learn and develop. Always exhibiting impressive leadership skills, Jabriel sets high standards for accomplishing greatness and encourages others to set and meet their own goals. Taha will attend Stanford University.

Janet Ann Purtell demonstrates integrity, selflessness, and compassion for people and animals alike. She is creative, always a willing participant, and extremely responsible. She has an unstoppable desire to help improve the lives of others. Her drive to succeed is admirable. Purtell will attend Ohio State University.

Aidan Reid is eternally upbeat and genuine. She is a bright, diligent, conscientious student who spreads positivity everywhere she goes. Aidan is an inspiration to others, always encouraging them to strive toward greatness and make good choices. Reid will attend Wellesley College.

Jai Raye is thoughtful, caring, and always willing and eager to help others. He is creative, inquisitive, and respectful. Jai is appreciated for his kindness and wonderful personality, in addition to always working hard and contributing meaningfully to classroom discussions. Raye is undecided.

Kathryn Nadeau has a genuine intrinsic desire to learn and takes every opportunity to enhance her knowledge about every subject. She asks good questions, has a wonderful sense of humor, and is consistently dependable and conscientious. Nadeau will attend University of California-Davis.