DISTRICT NEWS: STEM Academy Proudly Announces Class of 2026 Valedictorian and Salutatorian
Posted Date: 06/16/26 (04:00 PM)
STEM Innovation Academy of the Oranges Proudly Announces Class of 2026 Valedictorian and Salutatorian
STEM Innovation Academy of the Oranges is proud to announce that Tseyone Lelelew (pictured left) has been named Valedictorian and Samantha Alexandre (pictured right) has been named Salutatorian of the STEM Innovation Academy Class of 2026. Both students have demonstrated extraordinary academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and an unwavering commitment to their futures by embodying the very mission of STEM Academy.
This fall, Tseyone will take her talents to one of the most prestigious universities in the world, declaring her attendance at Columbia University in New York City. Her achievement as Valedictorian reflects her years of rigorous academic work, a passion for innovation, and a drive to make her mark on the world. Tseyone will deliver the Valedictorian address at the Class of 2026 Commencement Ceremony.
Samantha will continue her academic journey at Seton Hall University on a fully-funded scholarship, where she will bring the same excellence and determination that earned her the Salutatorian honor. Her commitment to scholarship sets a powerful example for all students who walk through the doors of STEM Innovation Academy. Samantha will also deliver remarks at Commencement.
"Tseyone and Samantha are not simply the top students in their class, they are evidence of what becomes possible when young people dare to achieve their full potential. Tseyone's journey to Columbia University and Samantha's path to Seton Hall University are not just personal victories but they are victories for every Orange teacher who believed in them, every family member who sacrificed for them, and every current student at STEM Academy who will look at them and say, 'that can be me.' We didn't just educate these young women, we witnessed them become extraordinary. The entire Orange community is so very proud of them." - Dr. Gerald Fitzhugh, II Superintendent of Schools
Both Tseyone Lelelew and Samantha Alexandre will be formally recognized at the STEM Innovation Academy of the Oranges Class of 2026 Commencement Ceremony on June 23, 2026 at New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT).
Media Contact
Tenin Terrell, Communications Officer
terrelte@orange.k12.nj.us