We proudly announce the Class of 2024 valedictorians and salutatorians. This year, Eastside Catholic congratulates six valedictorians and four salutatorians. Please join us in celebrating these 10 outstanding students and their accomplishments.

Class of 2024 Valedictorians
Audrey Bertsch, Elena Friedl, Alejandro Pulido, Casey Tebben, Mitchell Thomson, Adalia Weber

Class of 2024 Salutatorians
Angelina Arasavelli, Emerson Kim, Ella Munson, Allison Treacy

President Gil Picciotto commented, “It can be easy to dismiss being a valedictorian or salutatorian as purely academic success. In truth, it is much more than that. It reflects the pursuit of excellence over time, a reflection of grit and determination, and with our valedictorians and salutatorians, a reflection of the unique ability to balance academic pursuits while still engaging in treasured extracurricular activities. These students have put themselves on a path to becoming the best versions of themselves as well-rounded students who maximize their God-given gifts. While we celebrate these accomplishments, we know this is only the beginning of their stories. We are thrilled to celebrate their success today and look forward to their future pursuits.”

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the valedictorians and salutatorians for the Class of 2024,” High School Assistant Principal Soonja Larsen said. “Their dedication, hard work and academic excellence set them apart as examples of success within our school community. Their commitment to learning and ability to inspire others are commendable qualities that will undoubtedly contribute to their future success. I am immensely proud of their accomplishments and positive impact at EC, many of whom have attended since sixth grade. I'm eager to celebrate the achievements of these students and witness the great things they will accomplish in the future!”

Below, our valedictorian and salutatorian honorees shared their post-high school plans and offered advice to their younger schoolmates.

Of the 10 students, six honorees also attended middle school at Eastside Catholic: Angelina Arasavelli, Audrey Bertsch, Elena Friedl, Alejandro Pulido, Casey Tebben and Allison Treacy.

Valedictorians:

• Audrey Bertsch plans to study biology. "Put time and energy into what you care about and don’t be afraid to push yourself!"

• Elena Friedl wants to study engineering. "Work hard in school, enjoy it, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if needed."

• Alejandro Pulido will study mechanical engineering. "Take time to develop relationships with the people around you – teachers, staff and peers! You never know what opportunities and friendships might arise from spontaneous conversations."

• Casey Tebben plans to pursue a degree in marketing and hopes to join a dance team or double major in dance. "Don’t stress about the small things. Spend lots of time with family and friends because it goes by fast!"

• Mitchell Thomson plans to pursue a career in electrical engineering and will most likely attend Purdue University, where he was admitted to the John Martinson Honors College. "No matter what, keep moving forward. Don’t focus on your regrets, as they will fade in time, and you will only remember the good times. Work hard, but don’t forget to cherish your time with your friends."

• Adalia Weber plans to study business management at Montana State University. "Stay focused because it pays off when you get your work done."
   

Salutatorians:

• Angelina Arasavelli plans to study computer science. "Emphasize creating good relationships with the people around you!"

• Emerson Kim will study information studies, an interdisciplinary field of computer science, data science and business, at Carnegie Mellon University, where she will play on the women’s soccer team. "Hard work pays off! Like sports, it is what you do on your own that puts you ahead of everyone else."

• Ella Munson is interested in studying film, psychology and literature. "Be organized and take time to do the things you enjoy."

• Allison Treacy would like to study environmental sciences with a concentration in fire science. "Try your best to connect with all your classmates early on."