2026 Valedictorian, Salutatorian

First Recipients of Brooker Academic Excellence Scholarships

Hoban is proud to announce that Alexander Haran has been named the Class of 2026 valedictorian and Danielle Ferree the salutatorian. The valedictorian is the senior with the highest cumulative grade point average at the conclusion of seven semesters, while the salutatorian holds the second-highest cumulative GPA. Both students will be formally recognized at Hoban’s 70th Annual Commencement on Sunday, May 31.

As members of the Class of 2026, Alexander and Danielle will also become the first recipients of the John T. ’61 & Marie (McFarland) Brooker Academic Excellence Scholarships.

Established to recognize and reward Hoban students who demonstrate the highest levels of academic achievement, perseverance and dedication to learning, the endowed scholarships reflect a strong commitment to celebrating scholarly excellence. Beginning with the Class of 2026, the fund awards $10,000 each to the valedictorian and salutatorian, providing meaningful financial support as they take their next academic steps after graduation.

In addition to the senior awards, the Brooker Academic Excellence Scholarship Fund recognizes achievement earlier in a student’s Hoban journey. Each year, the top two students in academic standing in grades 9, 10 and 11 will receive scholarships valued at $500, applied to their Hoban financial accounts for the following academic year. These underclassmen awards are designed to reward and reinforce strong study habits, diligence and a sustained commitment to learning long before senior year.

Beyond grades and class rank, the Brookers hope the scholarships honor qualities that sustain students long after graduation: perseverance, grit and the willingness to keep going when learning becomes difficult.