To close out tonight's ceremonies, we will hear from the Valedictorian and Salutatorian for Aiken High School’s Class of 2026 as they provide inspiring words of wisdom to their peers!
Valedictorian: Aiden McElwain
Aiden will attend the Clemson University Honors College this fall, where he plans to major in microbiology with a concentration in biomedicine and a minor in neuroscience. Following college, he hopes to attend medical school and ultimately pursue a career as a neurosurgeon. Throughout high school, Aiden has been deeply involved in service and leadership. As an LLS Student Visionary Leader, he helped raise $30,000 for cancer research, and he gained firsthand medical experience working as a medical assistant at Aiken Endocrinology. He also served as President of the Rotary Interact Club and Secretary of the Beta Club. Some of his favorite memories include cheering in the student section during the volleyball state championship his freshman year, taking spontaneous beach trips with friends, and enjoying the senior sunset.
Salutatorian: Caitlin Lane Runnels
Caitlin will also be heading to Clemson University this fall, where she plans to study Civil Engineering. Throughout her four years at Aiken High, Caitlin was heavily involved in both school leadership and athletics. She loved having the opportunity to serve as the editor of the yearbook, capturing unforgettable moments for her campus, and she built lifelong friendships over the course of four dedicated seasons on the volleyball team. Some of her favorite high school memories include the simple, meaningful times spent with her close friends, whether they were laughing together after class or cheering from the stands at Hornet sporting events. Caitlin is incredibly grateful for the connections she made and the school spirit she experienced throughout her time at Aiken High.
Congratulations to Aiden, Caitlin, and all of their peers in the Class of 2026!
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