Waco-area’s top high school graduates want to change the world by helping kids with cancer, finding a cure for diabetes and changing laws.
The Waco Bridge interviewed some area valedictorians and salutatorians about their big dreams. Some are headed for prestigious schools, such as Brown, Harvard, Rice and Wesleyan universities. Some have already started doing what they see as their life’s work, such as the Connally High School salutatorian who started a food pantry at her school.
Waco High School valedictorian Eisley Lawson, who is headed to Wesleyan University in Connecticut to pursue a career in constitutional law and public policy, got a start in that direction while a junior. She cofounded the Waco chapter of Students Demand Action, which advocates against gun violence. That led her on a trip to the state Capitol to lobby.
“It was a moment of unity and seeing all these people care so much about something I cared so much about,” Lawson said. “I’m not advocating for myself, I’m advocating for all of these other people, and it was a tangible experience of, this is what I want to do.”
Lawson found her love of constitutional law through a government class her senior year. She even has a favorite Supreme Court case: Schenck vs. United States, which ruled that certain First Amendment rights are not protected during times of war.
China Spring High School valedictorian Madeleine Mack is headed to Brown University to continue medical research she started in high school.
Mack, who grew up watching her mom manage Type 2 diabetes, wondered if using pre-cancerous cells could lead to a more reliable treatment for diabetes.
She reached out to various professors to see if her idea could work. One Texas A&M University professor responded and helped her begin her research, which she plans to continue.
“For me, it’s about helping everybody have a better quality of life, even with the treatments they have, making people as comfortable as possible,” she added. “And giving people the best treatment that they can get, and not kind of stopping with what we have now.”
Midway ISD valedictorian Zoe Betancis had a similar experience that put her on the road to research. After the loss of her cousin, she decided to pursue medicine to help kids with cancer. She wants to be an example for kids and show them anyone can dream and achieve their goals.
“You might not have the best surroundings right now, or the best environment right now, but there’s always a way to overcome that, and there’s always a way to achieve the impossible at that time,” Betancis said. “Leading back to being first gen and being Latino, just showing people that no matter what you are, what your background is you can do anything, that’s kind of what I hope to show anyone who will listen.”
Naim Soto, the Connally salutatorian, was inspired by her own experiences with food insecurity to start a nonprofit food pantry called The Cadet House to provide food and clothes to her high school classmates.
“I have experienced that – going hungry sometimes, or not being able to speak up about wanting to eat – because money is just not there, and it’s tough,” Soto said. “I feel like it has shaped me who I am as a child, but I pushed it and I got through it.”
Soto – who was born the year the iPhone debuted – grew up with social media. She hopes to use those skills and work for a nonprofit focused on food insecurity.
Bottom row: Daniel Escobedo (Val-Connally HS), Naim Soto (Sal-CHS), Zoe Betancis (Val-Midway HS), Stella Raimondo (Sal-MHS), Taylor Ivy (Sal-Valley Mills HS)
Bottom: Aubrey Allen (Val, Riesel), Paisley Pearl Groschke (Sal, Riesel), Sebastian Gonzales (Val, Robinson), Kailyn Sepulveda (Sal, Robinson), Knox Outlaw (Sal, China Spring)
Here’s a look at some top scholars in McLennan County who responded to a questionnaire from The Waco Bridge.
China Spring High School
Madeleine Mack, valedictorian
Parents: David and Olivia Mack
Plans after high school: Study biochemistry, molecular biology at Brown University
Proudest achievement: Founded China Spring Science Fair Club, met with middle-schoolers and high schoolers to prepare for Central Texas Science Fair.
A memory she would like to relive: Competing at the State Showcase for Show Choir last year in San Antonio, where the choir placed first division and enjoyed time together in the city.
Quote: “Even though goals like starting a new club or studying something completely new may seem daunting, I learned through the process of my diabetes research project and the rocky process of starting my science fair club that there is always some mentor, teacher, or professional who will help us get started.”
Knox Outlaw, salutatorian
Parents: Mark and Autumn Outlaw
Plans after high school: Attend McLennan Community College as a presidential scholar to study mechanical engineering
Proudest achievement: Knox’s proudest achievement is balancing academics and extracurricular activities.
A memory he would like to relive: Basketball season because of the friendships, teamwork and experiences he had on and off the court
Quote: “High school taught me the value of hard work and balancing many responsibilities. I am grateful for the support of so many people, including my teachers, coaches, and the admin at CSHS. I have learned so much that will help me as I start college this fall.”
Connally High School
Daniel Escobedo, valedictorian
Parents: Veronica Perez and Eusebio Escobedo
Plans after high school: Attend the University of Texas at Austin to study at the McCombs School of Business
Proudest achievement: Qualifying for state in poetry interpretation during his senior year on his first try
Memory he would like to relive: Analyzing poetry pieces with Michael Donaldson, the former Connally ISD University Interscholastic League academic director, and finding out about the superior rating Connally High School marching band earned at regional contests
Quote: “Connally has given me what I’ve needed to be successful and I am incredibly thankful for that. I truly could not have asked for a better school to attend.”
Naim Soto, salutatorian
Parents: Michele Aguilar and Fabian Soto
Plans after high school: Studying public relations at the University of Texas at Austin. She hopes to work for a nonprofit that focuses on food scarcity in Texas
Proudest achievement: Creating a nonprofit food pantry at Connally High School
A memory she would like to relive: Relive all of freshman year
Quote: “The beginning of my freshman year I was nowhere near where I got to today and I’m so proud to see how far I’ve come. While others doubted me and discouraged me I never backed down and fully pushed through to the end. I just want to say that through hard work and determination you can do anything you set your mind to!”
Gholson High School
Jessenia Tonche, valedictorian
Parents: Patricia Mireles and Jacobo Tonche
Plans after high school: Nursing school at McLennan Community College. She plans to work as an ICU nurse while continuing to earn her bachelor’s degree
Proudest achievement: Advancing to state with her floriculture team during her senior year.
A memory she would like to relive: Any rivalry volleyball game
Quote: “I truly enjoyed my high school experience because it pushed me out of my comfort zone. I am definitely not the same person I was as a freshman, and I am incredibly grateful for the growth and opportunities that helped shape who I am today.”
La Vega High School
Carli Gravitt, valedictorian
Parents: Chris and Jeanne Gravitt
Plans after high school: Studying at Tarleton State University to pursue her goal of becoming an educator
Proudest achievement: Becoming valedictorian and graduating with her associate’s degree from MCC with highest honors
A memory she would like to relive: Participating in varsity cheerleader in the 2024 state football game
Quote: “I am thankful for all of the opportunities La Vega ISD has provided me throughout my journey. I am forever grateful for the amazing staff who helped guide me to where I am today.”
Aryana Kamila Perez, salutatorian
Parents: Rosa Tovar and Gustavo Perez
Plans after high school: Study advertising at the University of Texas at Austin and pursue a real estate certification
Proudest achievement: Graduating from McLennan Community College with 62 college credits as a first-generation student
A memory she would like to relive: Walking onto the field or court and seeing her community come together
Quote: “As a first-generation student, I learned that success comes from determination and believing in yourself, especially when experiencing new experiences without a known future. I am continuously grateful for my family, who encouraged me, my friends who stood by me during both stressful and happy moments, my teachers who challenged me to reach my full potential, my coaches who taught me discipline, and everyone else who supported me throughout these four years.”
Midway High School
Zoe Betancis, valedictorian
Parents: Randy and Candice Betancis
Plans after high school: Study chemistry at Rice University and attend medical school to become a pediatric oncologist
Proudest achievement: Becoming valedictorian
Quote: “Midway definitely helped me grow in my work ethic. I learned a lot about having to balance the workload, because it was rough. It was rough. I didn’t have the best grades freshman year, at least the best compared to the other geniuses in my class, but Midway really taught me how to like to grow on my own, but also find the people who best align with my interest and my goals. “
Stella Raimondo, salutatorian
Parents: Claudia and Jeff Raimondo
Plans after high school: attend The University of Texas at Austin, where she plans to major in Biology as part of the prestigious CNS Polymathic Scholars program
Rapoport Academy
Lillian Carney, valedictorian
Parents: Josh and Lindsay Carney
Plans after high school: Studying musical theatre at Abilene Christian University
Proudest achievement: Starting an affordable youth theatre company called Prosper Youth Theatre
A memory she would like to relive: Senior prom
Quote: “I am so blessed to have attended such a supportive and inclusive school! Rapoport provides students with great leadership opportunities and a fabulous dual-credit program that allowed me to graduate with my associate’s degree! I couldn’t be more grateful for my experience.”
Elexcia Escobedo, salutatorian
Parents: Jose and Maria Escobedo
Plans after high school: Studying health and society on the pre-health track at the University of Texas at Austin
Proudest achievement: Graduating with an associate’s degree and becoming salutatorian
A memory she would like to relive: Rapoport’s 2025 basketball state championship game
Quote: “Rapoport’s focus on education and career readiness has shaped me into the driven student I am today.”
Riesel High School
Aubrey Allen, valedictorian
Parents: Bo Allen and Ashley Allen
Plans after high school: Study animal science at Texas A&M University and work towards becoming a veterinarian
Proudest achievement: Becoming valedictorian
A memory she would like to relive: Senior Week
Quote: “One thing I wish I had done differently is become more involved in clubs and activities. Looking back, I realize how much those experiences can add to your high school years. While I may have missed some opportunities, I’ve learned from that and plan to be much more involved in college. I am grateful for the memories, friendships, and lessons that have shaped me into who I am today.”
Paisley Pearl Groschke, salutatorian
Parents: David and Misty Groschke
Plans after high school: Attend Blinn College and Texas A&M studying agribusiness and journalism while continuing to judge livestock
Proudest achievement: Serving Texas 4-H on State Council and studying agriculture in Australia, Canada and Japan through the Texas Youth Livestock Ambassador Program.
A memory she would like to relive: Friday night lights as cheer captain
Quote: “Although I was ready to graduate, I was extremely active and had a blast in high school! I am very grateful for my High School Principal and Counselor supporting me not only in academics but all my activities!”
Robinson High School
Sebastian Gonzales, valedictorian
Parents: Stacey Gonzales and Christopher Gonzales
Plans after high school: Attend the University of Texas at Austin and major in psychology
A memory he would like to relive: District One Act Play competition, junior year
What is your proudest achievement? Being named valedictorian
Quote: “Though it was difficult at times, high school offered me many opportunities to challenge myself and get out of my comfort zone. I had wonderful teachers who supported me in all of my endeavors, and can’t thank them enough for all they have done for me. If I could give advice to any incoming freshman or current high school students, I would tell them to never be afraid to reach out for help.”
Kailyn Sepulveda, salutatorian
Parents: TJ Sepulveda and Ashley Sepulveda
Plans after high school: Study aerospace engineering at Texas A&M University
Proudest achievement: Growing as a person
A memory she would like to relive: Junior year TA class with one of her favorite teachers
Quote: “I would like to thank all the teachers I had and the staff I interacted with throughout my time in high school. Each of y’all had a different impact on who I am today, and I will always appreciate the relationships that were built.”
University High School
Kimberly Moreno, valedictorian
Plans after high school: Studying kinesiology: applied movement science at the University of Texas at Austin
Proudest achievement: Becoming valedictorian
Quote: “As a first-generation student and daughter of immigrant parents, this honor also shows me that no matter where you come from, anything is possible. This achievement feels like a win not only for me, but for my parents and all immigrant families whose sacrifices often go unnoticed. It is proof that their hard work was not for nothing.”
Melissa Noami Cortez, salutatorian
Plans after high school: Study international affairs at Texas A&M University and attend law school to become an immigration lawyer
Proudest achievement: Becoming salutatorian
Quote: “Don’t be afraid to push yourself, even if your goals seem impossible at first. Stay consistent, ask for help when you need it, and take every opportunity that comes your way. High school goes by fast, so make memories, but also remember that the work you put in now can open so many doors later.”
Waco High School
Eisley Lawson, valedictorian
Parents: Billy and Kelly Lawson
Plans after high school: Attend Wesleyan University and major in government and Spanish. She plans to become a constitutional lawyer and pursue a career in politics.
Proudest achievement: Founding Students Demand Action and lobbying at the Texas State Capitol
Quote: “it’s so important to be exposed to a variety of different people and their backgrounds and their stories, especially when you’re thinking about going into politics, and I’m just so grateful that I got that experience through Waco ISD … but just the people that I’ve been able to know and be surrounded by is so special.”
Daniella Mercado, salutatorian
Plans after high school: Study economics and government at Harvard University and pursue a career in law and public policy.
Proudest achievement: Founding the Recycling Club and growing it to over 40 students alongside her impact on the school community through leading her class.
Quote: “To the students at Waco High and the Waco community, do not let stereotypes or people’s opinions about where you come from limit what you believe you can achieve. Too often, schools like ours are underestimated because we are a Title I school in a lower-income area, but people do not see the resilience, talent, and determination that exists inside our classrooms every day.”
Valley Mills ISD
Taylor Ivy, salutatorian
Parents: Joe and Leah Ivy
Plans after high school: Attend Texas A&M University majoring in animal science
Proudest achievement: Earning salutatorian of my graduating class
A memory she would like to relive: Freshman year FFA road trips
Quote: “Get Involved in FFA in some capacity. The experiences you will have are worth it!”
