By: River Reyes

At the top of the class lies those who worked the most throughout their high school career, the two who have dedicated their time and efforts to their family, school, and future. Vying for the highest honor are the valedictorian and the salutatorian, both achieving and being recognized as some of the brightest and capable individuals. The salutatorian for the Pleasanton High School Class of 2022 is Kenley Everett, a intelligent and driven individual who has by every means earned the honor of her position. 

Kenley will be attending Baylor University in the fall as an Business Entrepreneurship major with the hopes and dreams of owning her a multi chain level real estate company. When asked why she chose Baylor, she said, “I want to go to Baylor because all their standards align with mine, from academic standards, to religious beliefs, to just the essential way of living.” Kenley is very well known for her work ethic and academic capabilities and it’s very clear that her standard reflects in her school of choice and that she will continue to strive for excellence. In order to get to Baylor, the road was rough and Kenley endured many obstacles that would set her back. When asked what motivated her to work for the top of the class, Kenley said, “It was never honestly about me saying that I want to be salutatorian. It was the fact that I know that no matter what I do, I’m going to give my best effort. So just the fact that I made salutatorian made it all worth it in the end because all I know is that everything I do is going to be the best of my ability.” Her motivation exceeds that of her peers greatly and she’s earned her spot. Everything she has accomplished brings her one step closer to her dreams. The future will be very bright and as long as she holds her determination, there will be nothing to stop her.

The teacher that impacted Kenley the most was Mrs. Leonheardt. Mrs. Leonheardt was Kenley’s AP English Literature and Composition teacher and takes pride in having taught Kenley, who she regards as a very talented writer. When asked about Kenley’s greatest trait, Mrs. Leonheardt says, “She brings up a level of conversation because she makes insights and when she shares her insights, other people understand it better too so she brings an overall understanding of literature just because of the connections that she makes.” Kenley is clearly a role model for students in and out of the classroom, using her knowledge to achieve great results while helping the people around her.

As the salutatorian for the graduating class of 2022, Kenley Everett has achieved great results and set an example for many students around her. With an excellent work ethic and incredible intelligence, there is no doubt that Kenley will continue to succeed in her future. We congratulate Kenley for all that she has done and hope for the best in her future.