St. Thomas Aquinas High School Announces Class of 2026 Valedictorian and Salutatorian

St. Thomas Aquinas High School proudly announces the Valedictorian and Salutatorian for the Class of 2026, recognizing two exceptional students whose academic achievements, leadership, and dedication have made a lasting impact on the STA community.

Valedictorian: Priya Hawaldar

The Class of 2026 Valedictorian is Priya Hawaldar. Throughout her time at STA, Priya distinguished herself through academic excellence, service, and involvement across the school community.

Priya completed more than 250 hours of community service and was an active member of National Honor Society and Pink Club, while also participating in volleyball. Her hard work and dedication earned her more than half a million dollars in college scholarships.

This fall, Priya will attend Fordham University, where she plans to major in Neuroscience and Philosophy.

Reflecting on her time at STA, Priya shared that she will especially miss the teachers who made a lasting impact on her throughout high school.

Salutatorian: Sofia Bertucci

The Class of 2026 Salutatorian is Sofia Bertucci. During her four years at STA, Sofia excelled both academically and athletically while remaining deeply involved in the school community.

Sofia was a dedicated member of the gymnastics team, and one of her greatest accomplishments was winning the New Jersey State Championship during her senior year. She also loved being involved in STEM activities at STA and shared that her favorite event each year was the STREAM Faire.

This fall, Sofia will attend Purdue University, where she plans to major in Computer Engineering.

As she prepares for her next chapter, Sofia says she will miss her friends and the memories she made during her time at STA.

Celebrating the Class of 2026

St. Thomas Aquinas High School congratulates Priya and Sofia on this outstanding accomplishment. Their achievements reflect the dedication, perseverance, and spirit of the Class of 2026, and we are proud to celebrate all they have accomplished during their time as Trojans.

We look forward to seeing the impact they will continue to make in the years ahead.

Once a Trojan, Always a Trojan.