Homepage

Henninger High School Senior Makes School History as Valedictorian Henninger High School Senior Makes School History for Valedictorian

By Troy Rose

Rose:
Henninger High School senior Toryana Jackson will attend Wellesley College this fall on a full academic scholarship. Jackson made history last week becoming the first African American valedictorian in Henninger’s 50-year history.

Jackson:
Honestly surprised because I didn’t know that in the whole school history that it had never been one until I became valedictorian and I was like wow it really took this long to have a black valedictorian.

Rose:
Toryana says she always knew she was competitive but never thought it would let to this amount of success.

Jackson:
So, I knew I was competitive in school but I didn’t think I would actually get the valedictorian status. I was hoping for it but I actually got it.

Rose:
Jackson’s support system has continued to push her as she gears up for college this upcoming fall.

Jackson:
My parents, both my mom and dad. They always make sure I have whatever resources and they make sure that I have enough time in the day to have time for myself but also have time to get my work done.

Rose:
Jackson understands that her story can and will inspire other students and young ladies. That’s one reason she continues to work hard.

Jackson:
It’s just more motivation for me to keep staying on the track that I am on and keep going for what I want in life. I think it is amazing that I am inspiring young girls because when I was growing up that’s what I wanted to be. So, I am glad that it is actually coming together.

SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) — Henninger High School senior Toryana Jackson has achieved a lot in her four years, but becoming the school’s first African American valedictorian was never on her list.

Jackson has maintained a 4.0 GPA and will attend Wellesley College this fall after being named Henninger’s first Black valedictorian in the school’s 50 years.

Putting forth her best effort in school has always motivated Jackson and she says she’s proud that her work is now being rewarded.

“I didn’t know that in the whole school history that it had never been one until I became valedictorian,” said Jackson. “But I am glad I was able to break that barrier and be the first.”

According to the New York State Education Department, 45% of students attending Henninger High School in 2019 were African American.

Jackson hopes her high school work ethic will transition to college as she prepares for the fall.

“I’ve always had good study habits so before test I always make sure to study,” said Jackson. “If I need help with something I make sure I go to the teacher and have one on one time for them to help me.”

Jackson says the support of her parents and school programs has continued to push the scholar as she moves forward with her next chapter in life.

Related Articles