Sadie Gibson: Traditional Salutatorian 2026
GPA: 7.42
What accomplishment are you most proud of from your high school years, and why?
My personal academic accomplishment that I’m most proud of is the honor of being the Salutatorian for the class of 2026. Outside of academics, I’m proud of establishing Crest’s Project 7 Club, growing membership to 70 members, and seeing the impact it’s had on students’ lives by donating and giving to others.
Was there a teacher, mentor, or experience that had a major impact on your success?
There have been many people who have impacted my success, and I’m incredibly grateful for each of them. My mom, along with my former youth pastors, Jared and Rebekah Gulley, have been mentors, guides, and constant supporters in my life. Mrs. Beveard has been a mentor, encourager, and steady source of support throughout high school. Mr. Borreca is an amazing teacher who truly helped me during my senior year. Mr. Love sparked my interest in science with both his intelligence and passion for teaching. And Ms. Jodie Carleton has been incredibly supportive, always encouraging and challenging me in the ways she knew I needed to grow.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you outside of academics?
Most people are surprised to learn that I skipped 8th grade and graduated a year early.
How did you balance schoolwork with extracurriculars, jobs, sports, or personal life?
Balancing everything for me meant that academics always came first. I prioritized schoolwork, did not procrastinate, and I was able to fit all the extracurriculars in between.
What was the most challenging moment of high school, and how did you overcome it?
Junior year was the most challenging year. Specifically, the second half of my junior year was incredibly challenging, trying to finish my AICE diploma, study for SATs, and doing a lot of senior year prep. I got through it with the help of my supportive teachers, and I was able to motivate and remind myself that the hard work will pay off.
If you could give one piece of advice to incoming freshmen, what would it be?
My advice to incoming freshmen is to get involved and make the most of every opportunity! Join clubs, attend football games, get out of your shell, make new friends. The experiences and relationships you build during high school are truly priceless! Not only do they add some fun and make school more enjoyable, but they also create lasting memories and friendships that continue beyond high school.
What are your plans after graduation, and what excites you most about the future?
I plan to attend USF and study Exercise Science and Kinesiology, with aspirations of becoming an on-field sports team physician and breaking barriers for women in sports medicine. I’m excited to learn more and work with the athletic department.
Looking back, what do you think truly defines a successful high school experience?
A truly successful high school experience is not defined only by grades or achievements, but by growth, involvement, and the relationships you build along the way. Success comes from stepping out of your comfort zone, making meaningful memories, learning from challenges, and ultimately becoming the person you want to be. The friendships, experiences, and lessons you gain during those years often matter just as much as the accomplishments themselves.
