Two Cato-Meridian seniors have earned prestigious honors as the Class of 2023 Valedictorian and Salutatorian.
Elizabeth Hess, daughter of Tabatha and Anthony Hess, has been named Valedictorian. She has a cumulative grade point average of 104.7 percent and plans to attend SUNY Oswego to major in Zoology. Very recently, she earned her Seal of Biliteracy for proficiency in English and Spanish.
In addition to her academic achievements, Hess has exhibited exceptional leadership abilities in various organizations. She is president of both the senior class and National Honor Society and is treasurer of the school’s Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter. Hess has also participated in student council and Masterminds and has volunteered at Purpose Farm and Beaver Laker Nature Center.
Miranda Dennis, daughter of Leann and Daniel Dennis, is this year’s Salutatorian. She has a cumulative grade point average of 104.4 percent and plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in medical imaging/radiography at SUNY Upstate after completing prerequisites at Cayuga Community College.
Dennis is a three-sport varsity athlete who has excelled in volleyball (first team all-league), indoor track (first team all-league and first team all-section), and outdoor track, and was recently named a Section III scholar-athlete. She is the president of Spanish club and vice president of student council, and is currently a member of the drama club, National Honor Society and FFA. Previously, she participated in Masterminds and CNY Bombers AAU softball. Dennis has volunteered with the American Heart Association, New Haven Cemetery, and the American Legion. Additionally, she has completed service activities with A.C.T., SAVAR, and Spanish teacher Sandra Casper-Sheehan. Dennis also works as a babysitter, as well as a food runner at the Weedsport Speedway.
Principal Jennifer Kelly recently made the announcement in front of the entire school. Both students stood up to the cheers of their classmates and received flowers.
“These two have been amazing in everything they have done- student council, community service, National Honor Society- these are just two awesome kids. Today is one of the culminations of their high school careers. Congratulations, Elizabeth and Miranda!”
