We proudly announce the Class of 2023 valedictorians and salutatorians. This year, Eastside Catholic congratulates four valedictorians and two salutatorians. Please join us in celebrating these six outstanding students and their accomplishments.

Class of 2023 Valedictorians
Natalie Barlow, Samantha Foote, Katherine Leach, Luke Mileski

Class of 2023 Salutatorians
Angelina Lai, Aiden Vierra

President Gil Picciotto commented, “Being a valedictorian or salutatorian is an amazing accomplishment. Their success reflects their entire academic careers and the determination and grit they possess. Perhaps the most compelling accomplishment of these students is that they focused on being the best versions of themselves, managing the delicate balance of high achievement while retaining treasured high school experiences. They are more than amazing students—they are well-rounded individuals who are maximizing their God-given gifts. We are thrilled to celebrate their success as they begin their individual journeys beyond Eastside Catholic School.”

“The Class of 2023 not only overcame but thrived amidst a global pandemic,” High School Principal Ryan Aiello said. “Our outstanding group of valedictorians and salutatorians are exemplars of the incredible aptitude and resilience that resembles our student body. They’ve accomplished much both in and out of the classroom, even in challenging circumstances, and I can’t wait to see what they'll achieve in college and beyond.”

Below, our valedictorian and salutatorian honorees shared their future plans and offered advice to their younger schoolmates.

Valedictorians:

• Natalie Barlow (Bellevue) will study business at Villanova University or California Polytechnic State University. “Work hard and don't stress! Things will work out the way they're supposed to.”

• Samantha Foote (Bellevue) will study political science at UCLA. “Ask for help. All the teachers are here to help you and want you to succeed. So, even if it means staying a little later or coming a little earlier, it makes it worth it to put in the extra work, build relationships with your teachers, and be rewarded through your learning. Also, try new things. High school isn’t just about academics—your grades don’t define who you are. You aren’t going to remember the nights you stayed up late to do your homework—you are going to remember your friends and experiences. Join that club you’ve been thinking about or try a new sport! You could find some great friends and make great memories!”

• Katherine Leach (Bellevue) plans to attend the University of San Diego. “Try new things and make the most of your time in high school because it will be over before you know it!”

• Luke Mileski (Sammamish) plans on majoring in industrial and systems engineering at the University of San Diego. “Find a healthy balance between school and social life. It’s just as important to have fun with your friends as it is to earn good grades.”

Salutatorians:

• Angelina Lai (Issaquah) will study computer science at UC Davis. “Talk to your teachers and have a good teacher-student relationship.”

• Aiden Vierra (Bellevue) would like to study computer science and business at Rice University. “Do your work early and take breaks, so you don’t stress too much.”