District News

As University High School (UHS) prepares to celebrate the graduating Class of 2026, two outstanding student leaders are being recognized for their incredible academic achievements, community service, and dedication. Valedictorian Kimberly Moreno and Salutatorian Melissa Naomi Cortez have consistently demonstrated what it means to work hard, overcome challenges, and strive for excellence throughout their high school journeys.

Meet Kimberly Moreno: Honoring Family Through Academic Excellence 

Kimberly Moreno has earned the highest academic distinction of being named the University High School Valedictorian for the Class of 2026. Reflecting on her time in high school, Kimberly shares that she is most proud of her ability to balance a multitude of responsibilities. Balancing work, being heavily involved in school activities and successfully maintaining a 4.0 GPA in both her McLennan Community College (MCC) and UHS classes was no easy feat, but it pushed her to become a more hardworking and determined individual.

Throughout high school, Kimberly immersed herself in campus life and leadership. She served as the President of the National Honor Society, competed as a varsity and competition cheerleader, and served as a Dual Credit Ambassador. Additionally, she participated in the UHS Blood Drive, the Dual Credit/Accelerate Program, Upward Bound MCC, and Upward Bound Math and Science.

For Kimberly, earning the title of valedictorian carries deep personal and cultural significance. As a first-generation student and the daughter of immigrant parents, she views this milestone as a shared triumph.

"Being valedictorian means much more to me than just having the highest rank in my class," Kimberly said. "It represents every struggle, sacrifice, and every late night. It reminds me that hard work truly does pay off. As a first-generation student and daughter of immigrant parents, this honor also shows me that no matter where you come from, anything is possible. This achievement feels like a win not only for me, but for my parents and all immigrant families whose sacrifices often go unnoticed."

Kimberly credits her parents as her biggest inspiration, having watched them work tirelessly and sacrifice to provide her with better opportunities. She also extends her gratitude to her teachers, Mr. Lopez and Ms. Kaliher, who constantly encouraged her to do her best and supported her whenever she needed help.

This fall, Kimberly will head to the University of Texas at Austin, where she plans to major in kinesiology to lay the groundwork for a future career in occupational therapy.

Offering words of wisdom to the students coming up behind her, Kimberly advises, "Be smart with the people you have around you. You don't have to please everyone, you just have to please yourself and be happy with what you do."

Meet Melissa Naomi Cortez: Advocacy, Leadership, and Giving Others a Voice 

Melissa Naomi Cortez claims the honor of being named the University High School Salutatorian for the Class of 2026. Reaching this position represents the realization of a long-term goal for Melissa - one that she talked about for years, almost as a joke at first, but deeply wanted.

"Reaching this goal showed me that hard work, consistency, and believing in yourself really do pay off," Melissa remarked.

Inside the classroom and out, Melissa was invested and active during her four years at University High School. Academically, she was a dedicated member of a college readiness program called AVID for two years, consistently ranked in the top 10 percent of her class, and earned recognition as an academic achiever. She was an active member of the National Honor Society and the Texas Association of Future Educators (TAFE), where she used her skills to help create children's books in Spanish for younger students.

Her extracurricular activities extended to athletics and civic engagement. During her freshman and sophomore years, she ran cross country and track, which taught her discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. She also participated in the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) as a freshman, served as a soccer manager, and developed leadership skills beyond the classroom as a member of the community-based Next Gen Committee.

Melissa notes that her family was her ultimate source of inspiration, keeping her motivated and pushing her to do her best even when she felt like giving up. She is also deeply grateful to her AVID teacher, as well as her other teachers and counselors, who guided her through college questions, assisted with scholarships, and reminded her to stay focused on her long-term aspirations.

To Melissa, the honor of being salutatorian represents years of hard work, personal sacrifice, and structural support from her community. 

"It's not just about grades. It's proof to myself that I'm capable of achieving the goals I set for my future," she said.

Melissa will soon transition to Texas A&M University, where she plans to major in International Affairs. Following her undergraduate degree, she plans to attend law school to become an immigration lawyer. Her ultimate career goal is to help families and individuals navigate the complex immigration process, advocate for those who may not always have a voice, and build secure futures within her community.

Encouraging younger students to aim high, Melissa advises: "Don't be afraid to push yourself, even if your goals seem impossible at first. Stay consistent, ask for help when you need it, and take every opportunity that comes your way. High school goes by fast, so make memories, but also remember that the work you put in now can open so many doors later."

Bright Futures Ahead

Both Kimberly and Melissa embody the spirit of resilience, academic excellence, and leadership at University High School. As they prepare to take their next steps at major Texas universities, their accomplishments stand as an inspiration to the entire school and Waco community. Congratulations to University High School's 2026 top scholars!