LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS, NJ -- Academic achievement is built through commitment, determination, and countless moments of choosing to keep going. This year, Linden Public Schools proudly recognizes four outstanding students who earned the distinction of valedictorian at their schools.

Although each student’s journey is unique, they share a commitment to hard work, a willingness to overcome challenges, and gratitude for the families, educators, and friends who encouraged them along the way.

Linden’s 2026 honorees are Anthony Palmucci, valedictorian of Linden High School; Olivia Wlodyka, valedictorian of McManus Middle School; and Omar Abdallah and Brandy Nguyen, co-valedictorians of Soehl Middle School.

Anthony Palmucci

Linden High School Valedictorian

For Anthony, becoming valedictorian was the result of years of discipline, dedication, and working toward a goal throughout high school. He believes the title is not simply about being the “smartest” student, but about the ability to prioritize responsibilities, work hard, and remain committed to excellence.

One moment that had a lasting impact on Anthony occurred during his freshman English class. While students were discussing their goals for the future, Anthony mentioned wanting to earn higher grades. His teacher encouraged him to aim even higher, suggesting that becoming valedictorian could be a goal worth pursuing. Although Anthony initially thought the goal was ambitious, that encouragement stayed with him and helped shape his high school journey.

Anthony credits his success to maintaining high expectations for himself, participating actively in class, and making the most of every learning opportunity. Along the way, he also learned an important lesson: Mistakes are not something to dwell on, but opportunities to reflect, grow, and move forward.

His advice to younger students is to believe in their potential, avoid placing limits on themselves, and understand that hard work and a positive mindset can open doors to opportunities they may never have imagined.

Olivia Wlodyka

McManus Middle School Valedictorian

When Olivia learned she had been named valedictorian, she was surprised. Although she always worked hard and gave her best effort, she never expected to receive the honor. For her, the achievement represents years of dedication, perseverance, and growth.

Olivia’s success came from staying organized, managing her responsibilities, and learning to balance academics with volleyball and other activities. Those experiences helped her develop confidence, responsibility, and strong time-management skills.

She credits her parents for always encouraging her to work hard, her teachers for believing in her abilities, and her faith for providing strength and determination throughout her journey.

Like many students, Olivia encountered challenges while balancing school, sports, and personal commitments. During those moments, she learned to remain focused on her goals, ask for help when needed, and recognize that challenges can help build strength and resilience.

Her advice to younger students is to focus on their own journeys rather than compare themselves with others. She encourages students to ask questions, embrace mistakes as opportunities to learn, and remember that even small steps can lead to great accomplishments.

Omar Abdallah

Soehl Middle School Co-Valedictorian

For Omar, being named co-valedictorian represents years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. When he learned of the honor, he felt surprised, grateful, and emotional knowing that his effort and commitment had paid off.

Omar understands that achievements are rarely reached alone. He credits his family, teachers, and friends for supporting and encouraging him throughout his academic journey.

His success was built on staying organized, managing his time effectively, completing assignments responsibly, and continuing to learn from his mistakes. Omar believes setbacks are not failures but opportunities to improve and become stronger.

Balancing school responsibilities with his personal life was one of the challenges he faced, but those experiences helped him develop discipline, resilience, and the ability to stay focused even during difficult moments.

His advice to younger students is to remain consistent, believe in themselves, and never allow one setback or difficult moment to define their future. Success is created through the small, positive choices made each day.

Brandy Nguyen

Soehl Middle School Co-Valedictorian

For Brandy, becoming co-valedictorian was an achievement that once seemed out of reach. Through ambition, discipline, and a commitment to always giving his best effort, he turned that goal into a reality.

Brandy’s drive came from setting high expectations for himself and wanting his work to reflect his best abilities. Although that determination sometimes brought pressure and worries about falling short, it also pushed him to remain focused and continue improving.

Throughout middle school, Brandy faced challenges with procrastination and distractions. Learning to prioritize his responsibilities and develop better habits helped him grow into a more disciplined and prepared student.

He credits his friends for providing support during challenging times and his teachers for recognizing his potential, offering guidance, and encouraging him to continue striving for excellence.

His advice to younger students is to set meaningful goals, remain committed, and not be afraid of challenges. With time, effort, and determination, accomplishments that once seemed impossible can become reality.

As Anthony, Olivia, Omar, and Brandy begin the next chapters of their educational journeys, they carry lessons that extend far beyond the classroom: resilience, responsibility, leadership, and the confidence to pursue their goals.