Elmont Memorial High School is pleased to announce that Tristan Robert and Jessica Walters are the valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively, of the Class of 2027.
A dedicated and compassionate student, Tristan has distinguished himself through exceptional academic achievement and a steadfast commitment to serving others. Passionate about mathematics and science, he serves as secretary of Mathletes and has earned both a Math Achievement Award and the prestigious Rensselaer Medal, awarded to students who have distinguished themselves in mathematics and science. Among his proudest accomplishments is the publication of his engineering project, VISOR (Visual Input System for Object Recognition), on hackster.io. The interactive, 3D-printed device mimics the function of a real eye, moving, blinking and opening when motion is detected nearby. Tristan is also an active member of several honor societies, including the National Honor Society, Rho Kappa, Science National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society and World Language Honor Society. His achievements in Advanced Placement courses have earned him recognition as an AP Scholar with Honor. Beyond the classroom, Tristan is deeply committed to community service and leadership. As senior captain of Students Against Destructive Decisions, he helps coordinate mental health awareness initiatives and drug prevention programs for his peers. He is also a dedicated member of Key Club, providing aid with community events. Demonstrating a commitment to making a global impact, Tristan participated in the construction of bottle schools for underserved communities in Guatemala through the organization Hug It Forward in both 2017 and 2023. This past summer, Tristan gained valuable hands-on experience in the medical field through the Cohen Children’s Medical Center Summer Volunteer Program, where he worked alongside biomedical engineers in a hospital setting and assisted with preventative maintenance on ventilators.
“Tristan’s character is every bit as impressive as his academic accomplishments,” Principal Antonio Santana said. “He represents so much of what we want for our students: to achieve, to care and to make a difference.”
Jessica is widely respected for her academic excellence, creativity and dedication to helping others. A talented and imaginative student, she contributes to the school community through her involvement in Art Account, Newspaper Club and Yearbook Club, and further challenged herself by participating in the Harvard Crimson Global Essay Competition. Since ninth grade, she has been a dedicated member of the Color Guard, performing at the Newsday Marching Band Festival while also mentoring new members and helping them develop their skills. Her academic achievements are reflected in her membership in several prestigious honor societies, including the National English Honor Society, Science National Honor Society and National Honor Society. Jessica has excelled in a rigorous schedule of Advanced Placement courses, earning recognition as both an AP Scholar with Distinction and an AP Capstone Diploma recipient. In recognition of her outstanding academic performance and leadership potential, she also received the Clarkson University Achievement Award, presented to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and leadership. Beyond her own accomplishments, Jessica is committed to supporting the success of others. Through her involvement in Key Club, she tutors younger students in mathematics and science, volunteers at community events and assists with graphic design projects that help promote club initiatives.
“Jessica shows us that leadership can be found in offering encouragement, sharing what you know and giving your time to others,” Mr. Santana said. “She brings so much to Elmont, and we’re incredibly proud to call her a Spartan.”