A pair of hardworking and motivated young women who have immersed themselves in Mexico Academy & Central School District extracurriculars and have big career dreams earned the distinction of valedictorian and salutatorian for the class of 2024.
Ainsley Bigelow, daughter of Chad and Shannon Bigelow, and Avery Mack, daughter of Daniel and Sarah Mack, were named valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively, earlier this year.
Both students were raised in the Mexico community and attended Mexico Elementary School in their youth. MACS Superintendent Dr. Donna Runner said she takes immense pride in celebrating their achievements.
“These young women are the epitome of dedication and excellence, their brilliance and drive shining brightly within our classrooms,” said Runner. “They have set a remarkable standard of hard work and determination, paving the way for a future filled with promise and success. While their journeys will take them far beyond the halls of our schools, we in Mexico, N.Y., will be their steadfast supporters, cheering for every milestone they reach.”
Bigelow plans to attend Grove City College to major in psychology and then earn a master’s in mental health counseling to ultimately become a counseling psychologist. Among her notable clubs and activities include Student Senate for four years, class officer for four years including the last two as president, English Honor Society as president, German Honor Society, German Club as president, OCAY League, varsity weightlifting, National Honor Society, Math Honor Society, Kingdom Club as president and co-founder, Yearbook Club and senior speaker.
Her advice to her fellow classmates is that “people will remember your heart and the way you love others longer than anything else about you. Be someone that you would be proud of.”
Mack intends to attend Duke University and join its Air Force ROTC unit before serving in the U.S. Air Force with the goal to be an intelligence officer. While at MACS, she took part in the Marine Corps JROTC program along with its Drill Team, Physical Fitness team and Color Guard; the French Club, French Honor Society as president, Math Honor Society as president, English Honor Society, Art Honor Society, OCAY League and Urban Farmers.
She tells her classmates, “All you can control is your own effort and respect. Focus on that, and if someone makes you happy, make them happier. Only look back if it makes you better.”
Mexico High School’s 2024 graduation ceremony will be held Friday, June 28 at 7 p.m.
