The title of valedictorian is an honorable one that is given to an equally honorable and dedicated person. This year, Mattie Carlyle Derivaux was named St. Aloysius’ valedictorian, and has proven herself to be worthy of the title.

“I think that being named valedictorian is such an honor,” Derivaux said. “I’ve worked for it all throughout high school and it’s always been a dream of mine so I’m happy that I’ve finally achieved my dream.”

Just like many other high school students, Derivaux has struggled to juggle her extracurricular activities with her schoolwork and personal life.

“I’m one of five children,” Derivaux said. “So it’s always been hard balancing my schedule and schoolwork with my siblings. Then my mom passed away and my dad’s a single parent, so that just made things even more difficult and that was probably the biggest struggle I had during high school.”

Though high school was a trying journey, she persevered and remained an exceptional student.

“I’m on the Flashettes dance team,” she said. “ I was a witness for mock trial and I was also in various other clubs.”

In the fall, Derivaux has plans to continue her education at the University of Mississippi and major in biomedical engineering as a part of the honors college.

Though she has finished this chapter in her life she still hopes to continue to inspire other high school students as well.

“Challenge yourself and just don’t give up,” Derivaux said. “Your dreams are possible.”

 

Gabrielle Terrett is a correspondent for The Vicksburg Post.