Misha Patel and Leah Vannozzi have been named as the 2026 Somerville Academy of Liberal Arts Valedictorian and Salutatorian. They have both made huge contributions to not just the Somerville High School community, but also the SALA community through their hard work, dedication, and academic distinction.
This fall, Leah will attend the University of Georgia to study Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences on a pre-pharmacy track with plans to later earn a PharmD and become a pharmacist. Misha will be attending the University of Pittsburgh to study Biological Sciences on a pre-physician assistant track and hopes to pursue a career as a pediatric physician assistant. Both students say that their future goals have been heavily influenced by their love for the sciences and working in the healthcare industry.
Although both Misha and Leah achieved the highest academic rankings within their program, they credited their success to way more than just having “natural talent” as Misha phrased it. She challenged the common assumption that the top students always have everything figured out, explaining that “What got me here wasn’t perfection, but learning how to keep going even when things got difficult.”
When asked about the people who contributed most to their high school experience, both students only had one person in mind: Dr. Temple. Leah spoke of Dr. Temple’s constant encouragement and guidance throughout her four years in high school, and Misha contributed further by praising Dr. Temple for her academic skills and for creating an environment where students always felt supported. Misha described Dr. Temple as someone who, “…genuinely cares about her students and works hard to make the SALA program the best experience possible.”
Beyond the realm of academic achievement, both of the students spoke about the friendships they formed through the SALA program as well as the friends that they attended all the big high school events with. Leah’s favorite memories included, “Homecoming dances, Junior Prom, Senior Prom, RVCC graduation, and the countless hangouts and get-togethers with friends.” Misha remembered the hours and hours her cohort spent together during study halls and other free blocks. Both girls say that their experience was shaped highly by one very important thing: the community that was formed through the SALA program.
When asked about what advice they would give to the younger students just starting high school or even getting to their second or third year, both girls shared similar advice. Leah said to, “take advantage of the opportunities you’re given and not be afraid to put yourself out there,” she spoke of how high school goes by fast so trying new things, meeting new people, and not overlooking the small moments is very important. Misha stated something similar as she encouraged students to “work hard, but make time for the people and experiences that make high school memorable.”
Both Misha and Leah hope that at the 10 year reunion for the Class of 2026, their classmates will remember the friendships and sense of belonging that they created during their time here at Somerville High School. The entire community here at Somerville High School is looking forward to seeing what they accomplish in the years that are ahead!