Columbia Graduate Named Virtual Valedictorian Scholarship Winner

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — A Columbia high school graduate became one of 10 students nationwide to be named a virtual valedictorian scholarship winner by the National Society of High School Scholars.

The virtual valedictorian scholarship recognizes high school seniors who submitted special messages full of inspiration and encouragement to the class of 2021. Of more than 200 applicants, each of the 10 students selected by NSHSS will be awarded a $1,000 scholarship. Student speeches, with a wide range of topics and delivery styles, can be found on the NSHSS YouTube channel.

Camille Young of Columbia's speech is entitled "Don't Let Yesterday Take Up Too Much of Today." In her speech, she reminds other graduates that despite any challenges and/or disappointments, they have to cherish these moments of adversity and use the experience as fuel to prosper and push forward.

“We’re pleased to offer students the opportunity to become a 2021 NSHSS Virtual Valedictorian,” NSHSS President and Co-Founder James Lewis said. “Graduation is a big day for high school seniors everywhere and NSHSS wanted to do something to honor these students for their hard work, especially if their graduation ceremonies don’t happen as they normally would. We’re pleased to give voice to extraordinary young people who are facing uncertainty with insights, spirit and pride.”