John H. Glenn Names Class of 2017 Valedictorian, Salutatorian

Elwood-John H. Glenn High School seniors Michael Hermanns and Samantha Ciappa were recently named valedictorian and salutatorian for the graduating Class of 2017.

Michael had an eventful start to his senior year by becoming a semifinalist with his brother David Hermanns in the National Merit Scholarship Program. In addition, he plays an active role in the school community as the captain of the cross country team and participates in clubs such as Science Olympiad, Mathletes and Knowledge Masters.

Michael also currently balances a hefty course load that includes four Advanced Placement classes; AP Calculus, AP Statistics, AP Italian and AP Physics. Although he is undecided about what college he will attend yet, Michael hopes to become a business major and start his own business one day.

Upon hearing the news of becoming valedictorian, Michael was thrilled.

“It’s great,” he said. “A lot of my friends told me that they thought I had a chance, so it’s good to know that four years of hard work paid off for me.”

Samantha was also happy to see that her years off hard work did not go unnoticed as she was named salutatorian.

“It’s exciting,” she said. “I didn’t realize how highly ranked I was but it’s really exciting that all my hard work paid off.”

As an active member in the Elwood-John H. Glenn school community, Samantha participates in Habitat for Humanity, Independent Science Research Club, National Honor Society and does pole vaulting and hurdle for winter and spring track. She also is a dedicated student and is currently enrolled in four Advanced Placement classes; AP Calculus, AP Physics, AP Statistics and AP Government. Although she is currently undecided on a college, Samantha plans to major in chemical engineering after she graduates.

Story by Syntax, Photo courtesy of the Elwood Union Free School District : Elwood-John H. Glenn High School valedictorian Michael Hermanns with salutatorian Samantha Ciappa.