Celebrating Excellence: Meet Hastings High School Valedictorian and Salutatorian For The Class of 2026

Hastings High School is proud to announce the Class of 2026 Valedictorian Carlin McKinnon, and Salutatorian Rian Kacmarczyk. Both students have distinguished themselves through outstanding academic achievement, intellectual curiosity, and meaningful contributions to the Hastings community.

This fall, Carlin will attend the College of William & Mary, where she plans to study history and anthropology. Rian will attend Vassar College, where he plans to study physics.

Reflecting on her years in Hastings, Carlin shared the profound impact the community has had on her growth.

“Having been a part of the Hastings community for over thirteen years, I can say with complete certainty that the people I've met have had lasting impacts on me both academically and socially. Connections I've formed with teachers and coaches have allowed me to take on roles in various communities throughout Hastings, whether that be in the theater department or on the field hockey field. The friends I've made from Hastings have provided me with the opportunity to be comfortable and authentic, and I am very grateful for all of the laughs and memories we've shared. Without a doubt, the people are what makes Hastings so special, and I am greatly appreciative of those who have celebrated my success and helped foster such a positive community here.”

Both Carlin and Rian exemplify the key attributes outlined in the Portrait of a Hastings Learner. Their dedication to learning, leadership, and personal growth has left a lasting impression on their classmates and teachers alike.

For Rian, a spirit of inquiry has been central to his success.

“For me, inquisitiveness is what predominantly fueled my academic success. I believe that always seeking to understand the ins and outs of a topic, whether it be for an essay in English or a formula in math, is what has made me successful academically. More broadly, I feel that always being inquisitive and wanting to learn more is fundamental to a successful and fulfilling life. Without learning, life becomes stagnant.”

As they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their academic journeys, both students expressed gratitude for the teachers, peers, and community members who helped shape their high school experience.

Carlin encourages younger students to embrace a wide range of interests and opportunities.

“If I could give one piece of advice to younger Hastings students, I would tell them that it's okay to love many things. As I progressed through Hastings, I began to realize that the more you put yourself out there and remain open to new interests and passions, the more you can learn and appreciate your time here.”

Rian echoed that sentiment, encouraging students to explore beyond their comfort zones.

“To the younger students of Hastings, don't be afraid to explore. High school, especially freshman and sophomore year, is the perfect time to discover where your passions lie. Cast a wide net and, most importantly, try things you don’t think you will like. There is so much to discover in Hastings, and while every exploration may not lead somewhere meaningful, you never know how one club fair or one conversation can change the course of your life. It changed mine.”

Hastings High School congratulates Carlin and Rian on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to seeing the many accomplishments that lie ahead for both of them.