Class of 2026 Valedictorian, Salutatorian Announced

With graduation less than three weeks away, Northfield Mount Hermon celebrated the achievements of two members of the Class of 2026 during the Monday morning meeting on May 4 in Memorial Chapel. Emily Sun '26 was named valedictorian of the graduating class, while Miller Ming '26 was announced as salutatorian.

Head of School Brian Hargrove, who made the announcement, started by congratulating the entire Class of 2026 for their hard work and dedication throughout the year. He then asked Ming and Sun to stand and be recognized, as their peers erupted in applause and cheers.

"As evidenced by the applause, there's not a person in Memorial Chapel today who doesn't know how hard you both work," Hargrove told the two seniors.

As salutatorian, Ming will deliver remarks during the Recognition Assembly on May 22. Sun will speak during the Baccalaureate Service on May 23. The class orator for the Class of 2026 will be announced later this month.

Ming said being named salutatorian prompted him to reflect on his academic journey since arriving at NMH as a sophomore, starting with Humanities II. The opportunity to pursue his interests along with "paths that are challenging to me" played an important role in leading him where he is today.

"I think of it as an encouragement for myself to continue pursuing what I love and what I find difficult or challenging," said Ming.

His time at NMH also served as a humbling experience, teaching him the value and joy of new academic discoveries, he added. "I came in with the idea that 'I know XYZ; I want to teach my peers XYZ.' I was immediately humbled by the intellectual vitality of my peers and the depth and breadth of courses here, not just academically, but socially as well. My three years here taught me how to become a lifelong learner."

Sun said her time at NMH helped her develop the confidence to share her passions with others and ask for support when needed.

"NMH really builds a safe community for you to communicate your interests and needs with others, and supports you becoming a better person in general," she said. "I think that was crucial to helping me navigate my three years here."

As for being named valedictorian of the senior class? 

"I'm still in disbelief, to be honest," said Sun. "There's been a lot of moments during my senior year that have already made me feel recognized. This is the cherry on top."

Northfield Mount Hermon’s 143 Commencement takes place on Sunday, May 24.

—Max Hunt