Get to Know Lakota’s Class of 2024 Valedictorians & Salutatorians

Among the 1,300-plus graduates in Lakota’s Class of 2024, four seniors earned the esteemed titles of valedictorian and salutatorian. 

Congratulations to Lakota East’s valedictorian, Jeffrey Zhu (pictured top right), finishing his high school career with a 4.94 GPA. Lakota West’s valedictorian, Sunitvir Taunque (pictured bottom left), earned a 5.01 GPA. Lakota East’s salutatorian is Kyle Smith (pictured top left), who earned a 4.93 GPA. Lakota West’s salutatorian is Lynae Spruance (pictured bottom right), finishing with a 4.98 GPA. 

Looking Back & Ahead

In the fall, East’s Zhu will be attending the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to study electrical engineering and computer science. Before that, the Cyber Academy student will continue his information security internship with Procter & Gamble over the summer. While he credits the Cyber Academy with challenging him to think differently about a career in technology, he was also especially fond of his time in Mr. Kreider’s calculus class while at East, where he learned you can have fun and still get a lot accomplished.

Smith looks forward to double majoring in business analytics and applied mathematics with a minor in Spanish at the University of Notre Dame. He enjoys international travel and has his sights set on a study abroad experience in Costa Rica. Smith credits his experience as business manager with East’s Spark news magazine with helping him crystallize his future career plans. “It helped me develop leadership skills and figure out how to connect my interest in finance with running a business.”

West’s Taunque plans to attend the Ohio State University for data analytics as part of the Stamps Eminence Scholarship Program. He aspires to focus on the positive integration of artificial intelligence into the educational system. He points to specific educators - math teacher Chris Drumm and language arts teacher Bethany Dunn - for helping him discover a passion for education and inspiring his post-graduation plans. “Mr. Drumm’s unique teaching style and his passion for teaching constantly motivated and inspired me to never settle for less,” he said. “They both raised many questions within me regarding the importance of finding my true calling in this world and making the biggest positive impact possible while maintaining a strong sense of identity.” 

Spruance will attend the University of Cincinnati's College Conservatory of Music (CCM) to study media production with a concentration in film and television. Her ultimate goal to pursue a career in film editing dates back to a video project in Spruance’s seventh grade science class. With a dad whose passion for photography and videography inspired her to explore the same path, paired with an internship at a local film studio and time spent in audio video production courses at Cincinnati State, her interest in the industry grew stronger. “Pursuing a career in a field I'm passionate about is an exciting venture I can't wait to undertake,” she said.

More than Academics

All four graduates have far more to show for their high school careers than an impressive GPA. 

In support of his cyber goals and interests, Zhu serves as the program director for the region’s INTERalliance Leadership Council, president of East’s Computer Science Club and captain of the school’s Science Olympiad team for the research of the ethics of quantum innovation. He is also a two-time finalist for the National Chemistry Olympiad and was named a National Cyber Scholar with Honors, in addition to being one of just six high school students recognized at the National Cyber Signing Day event during the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) K12 Cybersecurity Education Conference. He is also the co-chair for Youth in Philanthropy and secretary of East’s Mu Alpha Theta, the national mathematics honor society. 

Smith is president of both Mu Alpha Theta and Spanish Club, as well as co-president of LEAF Club, a student group focused on environmental concerns. He was also captain of Lakota East’s Mock Trial team and led the business operations of East’s Spark news magazine this year as business manager.

Taunque has been involved in West’s Chess Team since his freshman year, serving as team captain his senior year, helping the team finish third overall in the GMC Championship. He has also been committed to West’s HOSA chapter for future health professionals. Stepping up as co-president this year, Taunque’s team competing in the virtual anatomy competition placed first in the state competition. Taunque has also been a part of both West's track and cross country teams. 

Throughout high school, Spruance played soccer and participated in varsity cheer for both the fall and spring seasons. She attended meetings for West’s Women Empowerment Club and spent time volunteering at Doverwood Retirement Village.

Words of Advice

Zhu encourages future Thunderhawks and Firebirds to try as many things as possible, “even if they don’t remotely interest you.” 
“There will come a time when you have to pick and choose,” he said. “In the meantime, do the things you like and don’t like and you’ll learn something from every experience.” 

Similarly, Smith says that he found the biggest advantage of a large district like Lakota is the vast opportunities available to students. “Getting involved helps you find your community and makes it feel smaller," Smith said. "You look forward to every day when you find your group.” 

Taunque, who thinks it’s important to not take your education for granted, leaves his future East and West students this advice: “Don’t just dream big, but also be prepared to work because you will only get out what you put in, and excuses don't win championships. At the same time, remember you're not a number, even when your numbers are the best.” 

Spruance challenges future students to enjoy high school while it lasts. “Even if a school event doesn't seem too interesting, or you're nervous to join a club, push yourself out of your comfort zone and try it anyway!” she said. “You never know where you could make lasting friendships and create important memories.”