SULLIVAN COUNTY — As part of tradition, the legislature honored Sullivan County’s valedictorians as they approach their June graduations and the start of a brilliant future.

Principals from every school district in the county introduced their valedictorians and shared some information about their achievements before each award was presented.

The legislative awards commend each valedictorian for obtaining the honor for the Class of 2024 and wishes each the best in their future endeavors.

“I just want to recognize that of the eight schools, seven valedictorians are young women,” said legislator Cat Scott (D, 5). “And I think that that’s amazing.”

She told them to “be unapologetic in everything that you strive for,” and to “go for the things you want to go for.”

“I’m so proud of you all,” she said.

Last year, five of the eight valedictorians were young women, and 2022 was evenly split.

Read what the principals had to say about their top graduates:

Eldred: Madison Bonnell

Principal Michael Conklin said, “Not only does Madison work hard but excels in many of her extracurricular activities. Next year, Madison has been invited to the Honors Program and Wilkes University. She’ll be pursuing a degree in science education to become a science teacher—which, we will hire her as soon as she’s done. And she’s looking forward to a career where she can build positive relationships with students and foster an engaging environment.”

Liberty: Benjamin Visconti

Principal Derek Adams said, “Benjamin is soft-spoken, focused, and confident in his abilities. He’s a gentle leader and has a strong moral compass. We have the utmost confidence that he will be working for NASA in the near future.”

Livingston Manor: Jillian Carlsen

Principal Adam Watson said Jillian served two separate stints as class vice president and earned the Principal’s Award. “She has the highest overall class average, finishing her senior year at a weighted average of one or 102.91,” he said. “Suffice it to say her academic accomplishments are no less than remarkable.”

Monticello: Kritika Talukder

“I first met Kritika at a parent-teacher conference,” said principal Gary Burgman. “As the student liaison, she was in the hallway helping to guide parents to meetings, and in speaking with her. I discovered very quickly that she was very passionate about learning. She was set on her future goals. She knew where she wanted to go. And in those conversations, we talked about what colleges she wanted to attend.” Kritika will be attending Binghamton University on a pre-med track, studying biochemistry. Her overall weighted average is just slightly over 103, Burgman said.

Roscoe: Sarah Gorr

Principal Janice Phillips said Sarah was awarded a Presidential Scholarship to study nursing at SUNY Delhi. “Sarah is a go-getter,” said Phillips. “She’s a hard worker. And she’s definitely a leader. I cannot wait to see what her studies help her accomplish.”

Sullivan West: Elizabeth Reeves

Principal Scott Haberli said, “On top of all her accomplishments, I must add that she was a wonderful young lady with an amazing sense of humor. She is a kind and caring individual as well. Elizabeth’s plan is to attend the University of Maine at Augusta to learn flight operations.”

TriValley: Abbigail Mentnech

“Her favorite part of attending our school has been all the teachers who have been influential throughout her career,” said principal Amanda Eberly. “Abigail encourages all students to get involved in extracurricular activities and participate in activities outside of school. Her proudest moment has definitely been becoming the valedictorian, and she has really pushed herself to retrieve this great success.” She said Abigail received numerous fellowships and intends to study astronomy at the University of Virginia. “Abigail has had a love for science since the sixth grade, and her dream is to work for NASA to become a professor.”

Fallsburg: Angelina Levner

Angelina was on her senior trip, so her father accepted the award on her behalf. “For the record, this is as close as I have ever been or will ever be to accepting valedictorian status.”