FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 13, 2025
Chatham County Schools Celebrates Top Scholars at Evening of Academic Excellence
PITTSBORO, N.C. — Chatham County Schools honored the top 10% of the Class of 2026 during its Evening of Academic Excellence, held Tuesday, May 12, in downtown Pittsboro.
Hosted by the Superintendent and the Chatham County Board of Education, the annual celebration recognized graduating seniors whose hard work, dedication and academic achievement placed them among the district’s highest-performing students.
The evening featured a performance by Margaret B. Pollard Middle School’s a cappella group, AcaPollard, and remarks from guest speaker Jacquelinne Marpquin, a 2021 graduate of Jordan-Matthews High School and current Georgetown University student. Marpquin shared reflections on academic excellence, perseverance, and the opportunities that come from dedication to learning.
Each student recognized as part of the top 10% received a medallion to wear at graduation in honor of their academic achievement. In addition, nine students received the Superintendent Award, one of the evening’s special recognitions. The Superintendent Award is presented to students who earned all A’s each nine weeks and on all exams for all four years of high school.
The Superintendent Award recipients were:
Peyton Douglas, Chatham Central High School;
Claire Oglesbee, Chatham Early College;
Cristian Lopez Coronado, Jordan-Matthews High School;
Sydney Gray, Ryan McNaught, and Madelyn “Maddie” Trunnell, Northwood High School; and
Caroline Arnold, Aria Browndyke, and Katherine Leonard, Seaforth High School.
The Evening of Academic Excellence brought together students, families, school leaders, board members and district staff to celebrate the accomplishments of these outstanding scholars. Each honoree was recognized for demonstrating a strong commitment to learning and for setting an example of excellence within their schools and across the district.
“This event is a meaningful opportunity to celebrate students who have consistently pursued excellence in the classroom,” said Dr. Anthony D. Jackson, Superintendent of Chatham County Schools. “We are proud of their achievements, grateful for the families and educators who have supported them, and excited to see the impact they will make beyond graduation.”
Members of the Chatham County Board of Education also joined in recognizing the students and congratulating them on their accomplishments.
The Evening of Academic Excellence reflects Chatham County Schools’ continued commitment to celebrating student success and preparing graduates for college, careers and future leadership.
For more information about Chatham County Schools, please visit www.chatham.k12.nc.us or contact Public Information Officer, Jessica Pasión.
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Contact:
Jessica Pasión
468 Renaissance Drive
Pittsboro, NC 27539
Phone: 919.542.3626
About Chatham County Schools
Chatham County Schools serves more than 8,900 students across 20 schools in central North Carolina. With a commitment to excellence, equity, and engagement, the district works in partnership with families and the community to prepare ALL students for success in college, careers, and life.
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