We're proud to recognize our Class of 2026 Valedictorians Addison Adames and Dheeraj Thakare with identical GPAs. In alphabetical order: 

 

Addison Adames

 

Parents: Kahlil and Stacy Adames

 

Post-grad plans: Attending the Newhouse School of Public Communication at Syracuse University to major in journalism.

 

Activities: 

Addison completed her Spartan Academy coursework through Onondaga Community College and will graduate high school with both an ESM diploma and an Associate’s Degree from OCC. 

She is First Chair Trombone in the 5 East Jazz Ensemble, a member of Spartan Sound Machine and the Tri-M Music Honor Society and a leader in the ESM Band Program, serving as both Wind Ensemble Representative and Vice President.

Her nine-year involvement in the Youth Development and Leadership Club highlights a long-standing dedication to community service. She is Secretary of both the National Honor Society and Junior National Honor Society. 

In athletics, Addison competed in varsity softball and soccer, also serving as softball treasurer. She has shared her skills with younger athletes through clinics and mentorship opportunities.

Addison earned the Seal of Biliteracy through her work in Latin Club and participated in Chemistry Club. Outside of school, she is a babysitter and dog sitter.

 

Where do you get your inspiration?

I get a lot of my inspiration from watching sports and my favorite athletes. Patrick Mahomes is my favorite athlete and he inspires my work ethic and my love for sports in many ways. I also love to watch women’s sports and I get inspiration from many of those athletes to achieve my goals and be the best version of myself.

 

Quote: Follow your dreams despite what others may think, and know that you can achieve anything you work for.

 

Dheeraj Thakare

 

Parents: Ganesh and Asmita Thakare

 

Post-grad plans: Attending Princeton University to study Physics

 

Activities: 

 

Dheeraj has been involved in Masterminds, Mock Trial and Chemistry Club. He also has participated in Lacrosse, Soccer and Indoor Track.

 

Outside of the classroom, he said, “I have had the privilege of working as a research member with the Syracuse University Gravitational Wave group. Although I am relatively new to the team, this experience has been incredibly formative. The wealth of resources and hands-on opportunities they have provided allowed me to fast-track my skills and gain invaluable insights into real-world research.”

 

Where do you get your inspiration?

My inspiration stems from a deep curiosity about the world and the belief that there is always more to learn. I am driven by the desire to contribute to human knowledge and make a meaningful, lasting impact on the world around us. Behind this drive is my support system, specifically my parents and everyone who has stood by me. Their unwavering belief in me inspires me to work hard every day, not just for my own success, but to make them proud and honor their support.

 

What advice would you give to underclassmen?

If I could give underclassmen one piece of advice, it would be to reject 'realistic' expectations and aim as high as possible. Put in the relentless work required to chase those big dreams. You will encounter people who think you are doing too much or pushing too hard, but tune out the noise. The truth is, either you will achieve those massive goals, or you will fall slightly short, but even a near-miss will place you in a much better position than if you had played it safe. The process itself will transform you into your best self