A.W. Beattie Valedictorian, Co-Salutatorians

Congratulations to our Valedictorian and Co-Salutatorians!

North Hills senior Gwen Dunlop is the Class of 2022 Valedictorian.

“Being named Valedictorian feels like such a big honor to me,” Gwen said. “It’s amazing to be recognized for the hard work I’ve done at Beattie. I particularly enjoy the relationships I’ve made with my teachers in the Health and Nursing Sciences program. Mrs. Dietz and Mr. Moran have always been there for me. They have both given me the hands-on skills and knowledge to be successful in my future, and they truly care about all of their students.” 

Gwen is a second-year student in Beattie’s Health and Nursing Sciences program. She plans to attend the Indiana University of Pennsylvania and pursue a career in the nursing field.

“Gwen embodies all the qualities of what healthcare providers need to have, including empathy, dedication, professionalism, and problem-solving skills,” Health and Nursing Sciences instructor Sarah Dietz said. “Gwen is career ready and is already working at Grace Manor as a recreation aid. Her maturity and work ethic is commendable. I wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors, and I am excited to see what the future holds for her.”

North Hills seniors Julia Addink and Marisa White are the Class of 2022 Co-Salutatorians.

“I feel like all of the time and effort I put into my program is finally paying off,” Julia said. “I didn't even think I would be in the running, so I am very honored to be selected.” 

 “Being named Co-Salutatorian means a lot to me,” Marisa added. “It shows me that my hard work was worth it. It has proven to me what I am able to achieve and given me a new confidence for my next chapter.” 

Julia is a third-year student in the Sports Medicine program. She plans to attend Slippery Rock University and pursue a career as a physician assistant in pediatrics, neurology or both.

"Julia has been a hardworking, dedicated student since day one,” Sports Medicine instructor Mr. Vtipil said. “She continually built upon what she learned across all three years and used that knowledge to help tutor classmates.  Julia has never shied away from getting involved, whether it was here at Beattie, North Hills, or with after-school activities.  She always carries herself very professionally and has also been helpful in recruitment of new students as an ambassador.  Current students in the program look up to her as a role model.  I look forward to seeing where she goes from here, starting in Slippery Rock and then beyond!”

Marisa is a third-year student in the Advertising Design. She plans to attend LaRoche University and become a graphic designer and eventually an art director.

“Over the three years that Marisa has been in our program, she’s always been one of those students who wants to strive to be the best that she can be,” Advertising Design instructor Mrs. Brown said. “If there was a field trip, she was going on it. If there was a competitive event, she was entering it. Watching her develop and grow during her time with us has been truly wonderful. We know that she’s going to continue to be a great designer as she moves on to LaRoche.”