By Sydney Simpson and Stephanie Caron – Advocate Editors

Katherine Mao has officially been named Jonathan Law’s Class of 2021 valedictorian. 

Mao will be attending Brown University in the fall and is planning to study a combination of computer science and environmental studies. 

“It’s an honor to be named valedictorian, and it feels really rewarding to know that all of my hard work has paid off,” Mao said. 

Mao has taken many Advanced Placement classes throughout her years at Jonathan Law and has been involved in several extracurricular activities. 

“Some of the AP classes I’ve taken are U.S. History, Computer Science A, Chemistry, Psychology, Environmental Science, European History, and Calculus BC,” said Mao. “I’m a part of Science Club, SheCodes, National Honors Society, National Math Honors Society, and Model UN.”

Dr. Thompson, principal of Jonathan Law High School, congratulated Mao on her high achievement. 

“Being valedictorian is a very special achievement for ranking first in the senior class among her peers,” Thompson said. “It is especially impressive this year as the Class of 2021 is a highly successful academic group of learners.”

Thompson also referenced the fact that this title not only has to do with academics, but with other character traits as well. 

“As you can imagine, earning this title (and Katherine definitely earned it) requires more than just dedication to academics,” said Thompson. “It is time management, grit and perseverance, prioritizing your classes, setting high expectations for yourself, and then achieving your goals.”

Mao’s friends said she would always finish up any school work before making plans to hangout. 

“She would also start assignments as soon as they were assigned rather than leaving them for the last minute, which often led to a more moderate homework load,” senior Athena Homorodean said. “In essence, her efficient time management skills allowed her to have a perfect balance between her academics and her social life.” 

Mao thanked the supportive community for helping her the past four years here at Jonathan Law. 

“I’d like to thank my classmates and all of the teachers I’ve had at Law for making these past four years so memorable and for being such a supportive community,” Mao said. “I also wouldn’t be where I am today without my friends and family who motivate me to become better every day so shoutout to them as well.”