WEST BABYLON, NY — West Babylon Senior High School has named Julian Cruz as valedictorian and Dherra Misra as salutatorian for the Class of 2026, recognizing two students whose achievements span academics, leadership, research and community service.
Cruz has built a well-rounded high school career defined by both academic excellence and initiative. He served as treasurer and later copresident of the Tri-M Music Honor Society, while also helping establish the school’s Math Honor Society as a charter member and copresident. In that role, he supported classmates through tutoring and academic outreach.
His passion for science extended beyond the classroom. Cruz competed at the state level in Science Olympiad and took on a leadership role within the team. He also participated in a research program at Brookhaven National Laboratory, where he contributed to a team studying protein structures.
Cruz’s involvement has reached across multiple areas of school life. In music, he served as an alto saxophone section leader in both the jazz band and marching band, earning recognition while mentoring younger musicians. He also competed as a varsity track sprinter and volleyball player, where he helped organize workouts and support teammates.
He will attend the University of Virginia in the fall, where he plans to study economics and statistics.
Misra has also distinguished herself through a strong combination of academic achievement, leadership and service. She participated in the Brookhaven National Laboratory SPARK Program, conducting advanced research in protein crystallography. Her work in Science Olympiad earned her a place on the state team for two years, along with multiple regional medals.
Within the school community, Misra held leadership roles as secretary and copresident of the Tri-M Music Honor Society, organizing fundraisers and service initiatives. She also supported her peers academically through Math Club and tutoring as part of the National Honor Society.
Her interests extend into the arts and athletics as well. Misra is a dedicated violist in the chamber orchestra and an accomplished NYSSMA participant selected for SCMEA. As a multiyear captain of the varsity track and winter track teams, she helped guide younger athletes and build team cohesion.
Outside of school, her community service includes work with the National Art Honor Society, Health Club initiatives such as blood drives and youth education efforts, and volunteering in a nursing home rehabilitation department.
Misra will attend Hofstra University, where she plans to pursue physician assistant studies.
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