Behind every valedictorian and salutatorian is a story.

Some of those stories began with a dream of attending a particular college. Others were shaped by long hours spent balancing academics, athletics, jobs, family responsibilities, and leadership opportunities. Some students found their voice through service, while others discovered their purpose through science, engineering, writing, public policy, medicine, or the arts. What unites them all is a commitment to growth and a determination to make the most of every opportunity placed before them.

The YES Prep Class of 2026 includes future doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, researchers, educators, advocates, and innovators. They are first-generation college students, QuestBridge Scholars, Dell Scholars, Posse Scholars, and recipients of some of the nation's most prestigious scholarships and university admissions offers. More importantly, they are young people who have used their talents to serve their communities, support their peers, and create opportunities for those around them.

This year, we proudly recognize the valedictorians and salutatorians from across YES Prep Public Schools. Their accomplishments reflect years of hard work, resilience, curiosity, and leadership, and their stories remind us that success is not defined by a single moment, but by the choices made every day in pursuit of a goal.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026. Your journeys have already inspired us, and we cannot wait to see the impact you will make in the years ahead.

 

YES Prep Hobby Secondary

Valedictorian: Joseph Aguliar

College: Saint John’s University

As a member of YES Prep Hobby Secondary's founding graduating class, Joseph Aguilar helped shape the history of a campus still writing its first chapter. Known for his gratitude, perseverance, and strong sense of community, he consistently recognized the people who helped make success possible and encouraged others to do the same. As Hobby's first valedictorian, Joseph leaves behind a legacy that will forever be connected to the school's inaugural graduating class. This fall, he will attend Saint John's University, where he will continue building on the foundation he helped establish at Hobby.

 

Salutatorian: Steven Rubio

College: University of Houston-Clear Lake

For Steven Rubio, growth was never about getting everything right the first time. Instead, he embraced challenges as opportunities to learn, consistently pushing himself through rigorous coursework, leadership roles, and new experiences. Whether serving as a volleyball captain, exploring photography and videography, or deepening his connection to his culture through dance, Steven approached every endeavor with resilience and purpose. A first-generation college student, he leaves behind a legacy defined by perseverance and determination. This fall, he will attend the University of Houston-Clear Lake, where he plans to study engineering.

 

YES Prep Brays Oaks Secondary

Valedictorian: Ati Adegbite

College: Bryn Mawr College

Driven by curiosity and a genuine love of learning, Ati Adegbite spent her high school years seeking opportunities to grow both inside and outside the classroom. From completing eight AP courses to participating in programs such as the Red Cross Research Program, ATLAS Scholars, and the Houston Methodist Caring Teen Program, she consistently challenged herself to reach new heights. Beyond academics, Ati served in Student Government, Black Student Alliance, National Honor Society, and Brays Giving Back, while also breaking barriers as one of the few young women to compete on the school's flag football team. This fall, she will attend Bryn Mawr College as a Posse Scholar, where she plans to study neuroscience.

 

Salutatorian: Vanessa Hernandez

College: Bryn Mawr College

Known for her compassion and unwavering support of those around her, Vanessa Hernandez became a trusted leader within the Brays Oaks community. Whether advocating for her classmates, serving through National Honor Society and Brays Giving Back, or helping lead the Latinx Student Association, Vanessa consistently led with empathy and purpose. Her commitment to service and academic excellence earned her recognition as a Brays Oaks Legacy Scholar, Rowlinson Scholar, and Posse Scholar. This fall, she will attend Bryn Mawr College, where she will continue building on a legacy of leadership and service.

 

YES Prep East End Secondary

Valedictorian: Christian Gamboa

College: Houston Christian University

Christian Gamboa never waited for opportunities to find him. Whether captaining the varsity basketball and volleyball teams, volunteering in the community, or co-founding a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping students access academic and enrichment opportunities, Christian consistently looked for ways to make an impact. Alongside more than 11 AP courses, Christian served as president of National Honor Society, captain of the varsity basketball and volleyball teams, and volunteered with organizations supporting individuals with autism and intellectual disabilities. This fall, he will attend Houston Christian University, where he plans to study business.

 

Salutatorian: Judith Villegas

College: The University of Texas at Austin

Creativity has always been at the center of Judith Villegas' journey. Through art, architecture, and thoughtful self-reflection, she developed a reputation as a student who approached every challenge with originality and purpose. Her passion for design extended beyond the classroom, where she built an impressive portfolio while exploring architecture, engineering, and art. Known for encouraging others to embrace authenticity and chart their own path, Judith leaves behind a legacy of creativity and determination. This fall, she will attend The University of Texas at Austin to study architecture.

 

YES Prep Fifth Ward Secondary

Valedictorian: Alexa Argueta

College: Rice University

For Alexa Argueta, learning was never confined to the lesson plan. Her curiosity often led her to solve problems before class even began, earning the admiration of teachers and classmates alike. Throughout high school, Alexa embraced one of the most rigorous academic schedules on campus, completing 10 AP courses while inspiring those around her through her quiet confidence and love of learning. This fall, she will attend Rice University, where she plans to study mathematics and physics.

 

Salutatorian: Najib Nassar

College: University of Houston

Najib Nassar built his success through persistence. Known for asking difficult questions and refusing to give up when faced with a challenge, he approached every obstacle as an opportunity to learn and grow. His passion for understanding complex concepts and his determination to keep pushing forward made him a standout scholar and leader within the Fifth Ward community. This fall, Najib will attend the University of Houston, where he will continue pursuing his academic goals with the same grit and determination that defined his time at YES Prep.

 

YES Prep Gulfton Secondary

Valedictorian: Hugo Chavez

College: Trinity University

For Hugo Chavez, academic success was about opportunity. Throughout high school, he pursued excellence with a clear vision for his future, earning the highest SAT superscore in his graduating class while remaining deeply committed to serving his school community. Whether volunteering at campus events, supporting student organizations, or helping others succeed, Hugo consistently led through action and humility. This fall, he will attend Trinity University, where he plans to study computer science and continue building opportunities for himself and those around him.

 

Salutatorian: Dayra Salas

College: Rice University

Dayra Salas understands the value of perseverance. Through months of essay revisions, applications, and preparation, she approached the competitive QuestBridge process with determination and focus, never losing sight of her goals. Her hard work ultimately led to a life-changing opportunity when she matched with Rice University. A student known for her resilience and commitment to growth, Dayra has shown that success is often the result of persistence long after others would have given up. This fall, she will attend Rice University, where she plans to study psychology.

 

YES Prep North Central Secondary

Valedictorian: Steven Echevarria

College: The University of Texas at Austin

Steven Echevarria has always understood that opportunities are earned. Throughout high school, he approached every challenge with humility, discipline, and a determination to make the most of every opportunity in front of him. Whether participating in the HOBY Youth Leadership Program, excelling academically, or pursuing ambitious goals for his future, Steven consistently demonstrated the work ethic and perseverance that inspired those around him. This fall, he will attend The University of Texas at Austin as a Dell Scholar, where he plans to study electrical engineering.

 

Salutatorian: Miguel Medina

College: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Miguel Medina never shied away from a challenge. From independently navigating the rigorous QuestBridge process to earning a perfect 800 on the SAT Math section, he consistently pushed the boundaries of what was possible. Yet what stood out most was his willingness to help others along the way, often taking time to support classmates while pursuing his own ambitious goals. A leader in Science National Honor Society, Chess Club, and the Yale Young Global Scholars Program, Miguel leaves behind a legacy of excellence and generosity. This fall, he will attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he plans to study biomedical engineering.

 

YES Prep North Forest Secondary

Valedictorian: Helen Perez

College: Trinity University

Helen Perez leads by example. Since her freshman year, she has been known for her quiet determination, strong work ethic, and unwavering commitment to helping others succeed. Whether serving as president of National Honor Society, participating in Legends for Animals, managing the varsity boys soccer team, or mentoring fellow students through the Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership program, Helen consistently paired academic excellence with compassion and integrity. A QuestBridge Finalist and accomplished AP student, she leaves behind a legacy defined not only by achievement, but by the positive impact she made on those around her. This fall, she will attend Trinity University.

 

Salutatorian: Jonathan Pacheco

College: The University of Texas at Austin

Jonathan Pacheco's journey is a testament to resilience. Throughout high school, he balanced academic excellence with personal and family responsibilities, meeting every challenge with maturity, humility, and determination. Known for leading by example, Jonathan encouraged those around him through programs such as Legend Ambassadors and represented his peers with authenticity and kindness. Whether exploring new interests through computer science or supporting younger students as a role model, he consistently embraced opportunities for growth while helping others do the same. This fall, he will attend The University of Texas at Austin, where he plans to study engineering.

 

YES Prep Northline Secondary

Valedictorian: Dillon Hernandez

College: Johns Hopkins University

Dillon Hernandez leads with humility. Throughout high school, he used his talents not to stand above others, but to lift those around him—whether mentoring younger students as National Honor Society president, serving as a teaching assistant, or supporting classmates whenever they needed help. His journey was also marked by resilience, navigating the loss of his father while continuing to show up for his family, his community, and his future. Known for his kindness, integrity, and determination, Dillon leaves behind a lasting impact on the Northline community. This fall, he will attend Johns Hopkins University.

 

Salutatorian: Nalleli Cortez

College: Dartmouth College

Quiet determination has always been one of Nalleli Cortez's greatest strengths. Never one to seek the spotlight, she consistently challenged herself to go further, taking every AP course available at Northline and even teaching herself AP Calculus BC. Beyond the classroom, Nalleli served as president of the National English Honor Society, a student ambassador, and a leader on the varsity volleyball team, helping secure three consecutive district championships. A QuestBridge Scholar, Strong Family Foundation Scholar, and Rowlinson Scholar, she has shown that leadership is often demonstrated through action rather than words. This fall, she will attend Dartmouth College, where she plans to study Engineering Sciences.

 

YES Prep Northside Secondary

Valedictorian: Dylan Ybarra

College: Grinnell College

Dylan Ybarra believes that meaningful success is built one step at a time. Throughout high school, he balanced academic rigor with leadership and service, earning passing scores on all five of his AP exams while helping establish projects and organizations that strengthened the Northside community. Whether serving through Student Council, Debate Club, or helping create the campus Little Library, Dylan consistently looked for ways to leave a lasting impact. This fall, he will attend Grinnell College as a QuestBridge Scholar.

 

Salutatorian: Andres Rojas

College: The University of Texas at Austin

For Andres Rojas, growth has always been a way of life. A passionate gardener with an analytical mind, he spent years cultivating everything from Redbud trees to academic success. His creativity, curiosity, and love of learning helped him excel in the classroom while earning a reputation as a thoughtful student who embraced challenges with enthusiasm. This fall, Andres will attend The University of Texas at Austin, where he plans to pursue a future in finance and continue growing the skills that have defined his journey so far.

 

YES Prep Northwest Secondary

Valedictorian: Daniela Romero Lopez

College: The University of Texas at Austin

Daniela Romero Lopez never waited for opportunities to appear; she created them. Alongside a rigorous academic schedule, Daniela dedicated herself to serving and leading her school community through Student Council, National Honor Society, Service Club, and as co-founder and president of Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA). Her vision, determination, and commitment to helping others explore careers in healthcare have left a lasting impact on Northwest. This fall, Daniela will attend The University of Texas at Austin as a Dell Scholar, where she plans to study biology.

 

Salutatorian: Giovanni Alvarez

College: Emory University

Leadership is often measured by the impact a person has on others, and Giovanni Alvarez leaves behind a remarkable one. Though naturally quiet, he found his voice through service, becoming a trusted leader as president of Service Club and HOSA, secretary of National Honor Society, and vice president of Beta Club. Whether organizing community projects, supporting classmates, or balancing responsibilities at home and on the volleyball court, Giovanni consistently led with empathy and purpose. This fall, he will attend Emory University and pursue a future in the medical field.

 

YES Prep Southeast Secondary

Valedictorian: Juliana Garcia

College: Princeton University

If there is one word that defines Juliana Garcia, it is determination. From leading Student Council to pursuing every academic and scholarship opportunity available to her, Juliana approached each challenge with purpose and an unwavering commitment to growth. Her hard work resulted in admission to 12 colleges, more than $750,000 in scholarships, and recognition through prestigious awards including the UT Austin 40 Acres Scholarship and National Honor Society Scholarship. This fall, Juliana will attend Princeton University, where she plans to study political science and continue advocating for voices that deserve to be heard.

 

Salutatorian: Aaron Berrones

College: Stanford University

Aaron Berrones is impossible to fit into a single box. A gifted mathematician, talented writer, avid gamer, and lifelong learner, he spent his high school years exploring ideas from every angle while remaining deeply committed to making a positive impact on the world around him. Known for his curiosity, quiet confidence, and thoughtful approach to life, Aaron consistently challenged himself academically while building meaningful connections with those around him. This fall, he will attend Stanford University, where he will continue pursuing his many passions and preparing to create change in the communities he serves.

 

YES Prep Southside Secondary

Valedictorian: Karen Mejia

College: Boston University

Family has always been at the heart of Karen Mejia's story. Her drive to succeed stems from a deep appreciation for the people who have supported her every step of the way. Throughout high school, Karen challenged herself to step beyond her comfort zone, embracing opportunities for growth while serving her school community through organizations including National Honor Society, Student Government, Technology Club, ACE Mentoring, and as Volleyball Team Manager. A first-generation college student, Karen will attend Boston University this fall, where she plans to study business and pursue her dream of one day owning her own HVAC company.

 

Salutatorian: Yelitza Murillo

College: Texas A&M University

Yelitza Murillo mastered the art of balancing it all. While maintaining academic excellence, she worked part-time, helped manage the school soccer team, supported her family, and remained focused on her future goals. Known for her humility, kindness, and love of animals, Yelitza consistently approached every responsibility with determination and grace. Her ability to lead through action and perseverance left a lasting impression on classmates and staff alike. This fall, she will attend Texas A&M University, where she plans to study Animal Science.

 

YES Prep Southwest Secondary

Valedictorian: Yamil Escamilla

College: Columbia University

Yamil Escamilla has never been afraid to chart his own course. Guided by curiosity, initiative, and a passion for technology, he spent his high school years creating opportunities for himself and those around him. As a co-founder of the Robotics Club and a leader in both National Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society, Yamil demonstrated that leadership is about action, not recognition. A first-generation college student, he leaves behind a legacy of innovation, service, and authenticity. This fall, he will attend Columbia University.

 

Salutatorian: Brandon Lopez

College: The University of Texas at Austin

For Brandon Lopez, success has always been intentional. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or on the court, he approached every challenge with discipline, perseverance, and a desire to improve. Balancing AP coursework alongside baseball, basketball, volleyball, and track, Brandon consistently pushed himself to excel while encouraging those around him to do the same. His commitment to growth earned him recognition as Athlete of the Year and the respect of teammates, coaches, and teachers alike. This fall, he will attend The University of Texas at Austin to study kinesiology and pursue a future in sports medicine.

 

YES Prep White Oak Secondary

Valedictorian: Ronaldo Martinez

College: Rice University

From the start of high school, Ronaldo Martinez had a clear vision for his future. Driven by a goal of earning a full-ride scholarship to Rice University, he spent the next four years turning that dream into reality through hard work, determination, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Known for his intellectual curiosity and willingness to help others, Ronaldo became a trusted leader and friend within the White Oak community. This fall, he will attend Rice University on a full-ride scholarship, the realization of a goal years in the making.

 

Salutatorian: Cristina Monroy

College: Kenyon College

Cristina Monroy has always been drawn to stories. A passionate reader with a natural curiosity about the world, she challenged herself through nine AP courses while remaining actively involved in National Honor Society, Photography, and Environmental Youth Council. Known for her thoughtful contributions in the classroom and her dream of one day writing her own novel, Cristina leaves behind a legacy of creativity, intellect, and authenticity. This fall, she will attend Kenyon College as a KEEP Scholar, where she plans to study English and Sociology.

YES Prep West Secondary

Valedictorian: Abraham Zepeta

College: Harvard University

Abraham Zepeta never stopped asking questions. Whether meeting with industry professionals, attending business competitions, advocating for environmental initiatives, or teaching himself new skills, he approached every opportunity with curiosity and purpose. Known throughout the West community for his leadership, charisma, and willingness to embrace new experiences, Abraham consistently looked for ways to make a meaningful impact. This fall, he will attend Harvard University, where he plans to study Environmental Studies and Public Policy.

 

Salutatorian: Peter Dinh

College: The University of Texas at Austin

Peter Dinh understands that excellence is built through consistency. Throughout high school, he earned a reputation for his discipline, resilience, and commitment to continuous growth. Whether tackling challenging coursework, engaging thoughtfully in classroom discussions, or brightening the day with one of his signature puns, Peter brought both intellect and humility to every space he entered. This fall, he will attend The University of Texas at Austin, where he plans to study psychology and pursue a career as a psychiatrist.