The Lakeland Central School District is proud to recognize the outstanding students who have been named valedictorians and salutatorians of the Class of 2027 at Lakeland High School and Walter Panas High School.
These students represent not only exceptional academic achievement, but also the curiosity, perseverance, relationships and commitment to learning that define the Lakeland experience. As they prepare for the next chapter, each reflected on the people and experiences that have shaped their high school years and the goals that will guide them beyond graduation.
Lakeland High School
Cassidy Dineen-Herzog, Valedictorian
For Cassidy Dineen-Herzog, being named valedictorian represents the culmination of four years of determination and hard work.
“Being valedictorian is a culmination of all of that effort, and it means that the sacrifice was worth it,” she said.
Some of Cassidy’s most meaningful high school experiences have come through the relationships she has built with classmates, teachers and members of the Lakeland community. She has been involved in the Pre-Medicine Club and District Youth Council and competed in cross country and track.
She credits her family and teachers—including Ms. Ganz, Ms. Miller and Mr. Richeter—with encouraging her to give her best effort while learning to appreciate the process of learning itself.
Cassidy plans to attend college on a pre-medical track before pursuing medical school and a career as a physician. She hopes to work in a New York City hospital and is particularly interested in expanding access to health care and advancing medical treatments through research.
Matthew Hayes, Co-Salutatorian
For Matthew Hayes, being named salutatorian represents both perseverance and the opportunity to make a difference for others.
“Being named salutatorian means that all of my efforts over the past four years have paid off,” he said. “More importantly, it means that I have had the chance to be helpful to those who needed it, which has been an honor for me.”
One of his favorite memories is a freshman-year science research field trip to the American Museum of Natural History, where a day spent with friends—and the bus ride home—created a lasting memory.
Matthew said his high school experience has also been a period of significant personal growth and introspection. Looking ahead, he plans to study sports and exercise science in college, with the goal of pursuing a career in physical or occupational therapy. He is also looking forward to trying a new sport, such as boxing.
Alexander Ascanio, Co-Salutatorian
For Alexander Ascanio, being named salutatorian confirms a commitment to a lifelong pursuit of “truth, knowledge and understanding.”
He reflected on a high school experience filled with meaningful moments, from performing in the pit orchestra and jazz band to celebrating personal achievements and building friendships. One recent memory that stands out is arriving at Homecoming surrounded by friends and feeling a strong sense of confidence in who he had become.
Alexander credits his best friend with having a profound influence on his high school experience, describing the value of having someone with whom he could share both humor and intellectual conversations.
He plans to continue his education in college, likely studying history or another field in the humanities. Whatever path he ultimately chooses, he knows it will involve writing, curiosity and a continued desire to ask big questions and explore new ideas.
Walter Panas High School
Angelina Pape, Valedictorian
Angelina Pape views her recognition as valedictorian not simply as a measure of academic achievement, but as an opportunity to recognize the many talented students around her.
“Even though my grades may be higher, that number does not define intelligence,” she said. “I know that I am surrounded by unique and bright people.”
Angelina’s favorite memories include the camaraderie that developed among classmates after challenging tests, when students would compare answers and share in the collective experience of working through something difficult together.
She credits many people with influencing her throughout high school, including teachers Mr. Marrero and Ms. Nic, as well as her family and friends. And, with a sense of humor, she also recognizes her dog Daisy, who provided companionship and emotional support during late nights of studying.
Angelina plans to major in physics in college and ultimately pursue a Ph.D. in astrophysics. More than having every detail of her future mapped out, she hopes to continue learning and expanding her education throughout her life.
Ashley Rajesh, Salutatorian
For Ashley Rajesh, being named salutatorian is a reflection of endurance and the value of persevering through challenges.
“It shows me that embracing struggle, however difficult it may seem in the moment, will eventually be extremely rewarding,” she said. “Hardship can uplift you.”
Ashley’s favorite high school memory is one that happens regularly: racing to her math teacher’s classroom to put questions on the board. She said the friendly competition among her classmates has motivated her to work harder and become the best version of herself.
She credits Ms. Yamakawa and Ms. Nic with having a lasting impact on her development, both academically and personally. Their guidance, she said, taught her the importance of perseverance, growth and learning from failure.
Ashley plans to study mechanical engineering with a minor in political science and hopes to eventually pursue a master’s degree. She is particularly excited about meeting new people, gaining different perspectives and applying the values she developed throughout high school to whatever comes next.
The Lakeland Central School District congratulates Cassidy Dineen-Herzog, Matthew Hayes, Alexander Ascanio, Angelina Pape and Ashley Rajesh on this significant achievement and looks forward to celebrating their accomplishments with their families, teachers, classmates and the entire Lakeland community at graduation.
Their stories reflect five distinct paths, but share a common thread: a commitment to learning, personal growth and the people who helped shape their journey through Lakeland schools.
