SENECA - Seneca’s two top scholars in the 2018 graduating class are Valedictorian Emily Garfoot and Salutatorian Cody Ostrander. The two will deliver addresses at the school’s graduation ceremony, which will take place on Friday, May 25 at 8 p.m. The 2018 classs flower is the white rose, and their motto is, “What feels like the end is often the beginning.”

Emily Garfoot

Valedictorian Emily Garfoot, daughter of Scott and Susie Garfoot, rural Gays Mills, has been a member of the National Honor Society, S.H.A.R.E., Spanish Club, FFA, 2018 Yearbook Staff, Forensics, volleyball, basketball, and softball.

“It is a huge honor that gives me the opportunity to use my strengths in college,” the accomplished young woman says of earning the Valedictorian award. “It has been a lot of hard work, but it has finally paid off.”

Garfoot will attend UW-LaCrosse in the fall of 2018, where she  plans to study biology.

Garfoot cites her mother, father and sister as influences in her life, which pushed her to work so hard in school.

“Without their constant support, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” the Valedictorian said.

Garfoot particularly wants to thank all of her teachers, coaches, and community members, who have supported her through her high school career as well.

Cody Ostrander

Salutatorian Cody Ostrander, son of Leighton and Brenda Ostrander, rural Gays Mills has participated in basketball, Spanish Club, and National Honor Society during his time at Seneca High School.

“Having earned the award of Salutatorian is an honor because it means I have challenged myself to take harder classes,” Ostrander explained. “I took on the extra challenge and was able to be successful in my academic achievements.”

Ostrander will attend UW-Platteville in the fall of 2018, where he plans to study engineering.

“Family and friends have always pushed me to be the best I can be,” Ostrander says of the influences in his life that helped him achieve his success. “My siblings and parents have had the biggest influence on my success.”