SOMERS, N.Y. - Somers High School has announced Connor Sheldon as valedictorian and Scott “Scotty” Evans as salutatorian of the Class of 2027, recognizing two students who have distinguished themselves through academic excellence, leadership and community service.
Both students have challenged themselves with rigorous coursework while remaining active in extracurricular activities and volunteer efforts throughout their high school careers.
Sheldon earned the highest academic standing in his graduating class while completing one of the school's most demanding course loads, including Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate and Science Research classes.
His academic interests extend well beyond the classroom. During the summer of 2024, Sheldon participated in Brown University's Economics of Inequality Program, where he explored complex economic and social issues at the collegiate level.
He also conducted advanced scientific research in collaboration with a researcher from Washington University in St. Louis. His project focused on predicting treatment responses in patients with follicular lymphoma through the analysis of circulating tumor DNA.
The research earned him recognition for Excellence in Medical Research at the Westchester Science and Engineering Fair.
In addition to his academic achievements, Sheldon has been a four-year varsity athlete in soccer and tennis. He served as a captain of the soccer team, earned All-League honors and competed for multiple FC Somers club soccer teams.
His leadership extends to several school organizations. He serves as co-vice president of Mock Trial and treasurer of the Student Athletic Council. He is also a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society and Peer Leadership.
Sheldon has demonstrated a commitment to community service, earning the Presidential Volunteer Service Gold Award for completing more than 100 volunteer hours.
Outside school, he works as an instructor and mentor at a local taekwondo school. A third-degree black belt, Sheldon has practiced the martial art since childhood.
Drawing on both Korean and American cultural influences, Sheldon has developed an appreciation for different perspectives and experiences. Teachers and peers recognize him for his leadership, humility, work ethic and integrity.
He plans to continue pursuing his interests in academics, research, leadership and service in college.
Evans, meanwhile, has compiled an impressive academic record of his own, maintaining a 4.3 GPA while taking challenging courses that include AP English Language and Composition, AP Chemistry, Precalculus Honors, college-level Spanish and Science Research.
Like Sheldon, Evans has balanced his academic responsibilities with leadership roles and a commitment to helping others.
He serves as vice president of the Class of 2027 and the Sign Language Club, taking an active role in school activities and student leadership.
Evans also works as a mathematics and science tutor for students in grades four through 10. In that role, he adapts his teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles, helping younger students strengthen their academic skills and build confidence.
His interest in mentoring extends beyond academics. As an assistant kung fu instructor at Dragon & Crane, Evans helps younger students develop discipline, martial arts skills and self-confidence.
He has also volunteered at Somers High School events, including luncheons honoring veterans and senior citizens, assisting with preparation, organization and hospitality.
Evans is recognized for his intellectual curiosity, compassion, dependability and willingness to support others. His accomplishments reflect not only academic dedication but also a commitment to making a positive difference in his school and community.
In announcing the honors, Somers High School praised both students for their perseverance and dedication throughout their educational careers.
"Their accomplishments reflect hard work and perseverance and a pursuit of excellence that defines the Somers High School community," the district said in its announcement.
School officials congratulated Sheldon and Evans, along with their families, on the recognition and expressed their enthusiasm for the students' continued success.
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