Midland Valley High School's class of 2023 makes history

ERIN WEEKS, Aiken Standard, S.C.
·2 min read

Jun. 9—Midland Valley's graduation ceremony on Thursday night was brimming with groundbreaking accomplishments, beginning with the introduction of Daisy Gonzales as the first Mexican American valedictorian in Midland Valley history.

Gonzales noted her parents — both Mexican immigrants — as the driving force behind her ambition. Her father, who became an orphan at the age of 12, and her mother, who was unable to pursue education, have given Gonzales the inspiration she needed to succeed. "My greatest source of motivation has been with me since before I was even born," she said. "And now it happens to be the ones I share a home with."

In her speech, Gonzales made sure to emphasize the importance of her identity and the struggles faced by many first-generation students.

"A long time ago, I made myself a promise that others in this audience may relate to. It wasn't that I would leave where I came from, but that I would take who I am wherever I go. My parents have instilled in me the value and the importance of being a proud Mexican American student," she said. "Being a first-generation student is not easy. Entering an unfamiliar school system with an unfamiliar language as a test drive for future generations is not easy. We have the power to break barriers, overcome obstacles and create a new path for future generations."

She also spoke a portion of her speech in Spanish for other bilingual listeners in the audience. "Like many others here tonight, I pride myself in loving in two languages and working in two languages and speaking in two languages."

Gonzales has been accepted to over 23 schools, including Notre Dame and Ivy League schools such as Brown and Yale. This fall, she will be attending Harvard.

Gonzales wasn't the only highlight of the night — the graduating class of 2023 set a record by earning $18,073,241 in scholarship money.

"The class of 2023 has been offered, in total, the most scholarship dollars in Midland Valley High School history," said Principal Sheldon Higgenbottom. "Class of 2023, you are accomplished, compassionate and courageous. Remember, you are always a mustang in everything you do."