The district is proud to announce that Conner Doane has been named the 2026 High School valedictorian and Colin Hansen the 2026 salutatorian, earning the school’s top two academic honors through exceptional dedication to scholastic achievement inside and outside the classroom.
“Conner and Colin exemplify what it means to pursue excellence with determination, integrity and purpose,” said Principal Kenneth Hauck. “Their commitment to academics, along with their involvement in our school community, reflects the very best of our students. They have set a remarkable standard through their hard work and character, and we are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished. We look forward to seeing the impact they will make in their future college and career journeys and wish them continued success in all they do.”
Meet Valedictorian Conner Doane through this Q&A
What’s important for others to know about your Minisink Valley academic experience?
Academically, what you’ve got to realize, and only if you care deeply about the learning itself and not merely the grade, is that the teachers you see every day are college-educated, and, therefore, have taken classes far more advanced than what they teach. What I mean is that if you want to dive deeper into a subject, you can just ask them, and they’ll probably help you. It sounds obvious, but it's easy to forget.
What are your extracurricular activities and why are they important to you?
Throughout high school, I’ve participated in numerous activities, from Latin Club to National Honor Society. Each had its positives and negatives, but two that have stood out to me are the Financial Literacy and Economics Association and Youth in Government. The former was significant because, in playing my small part in comparison to a great friend to whom I owe so much, I saw what it took to create something and felt the joy of watching an idea come to life. Then, through Youth in Government, I discovered my passion for politics and governance while working with some of the brightest our school has to offer. Also, who wouldn’t want to skip a day of school to run around and play legislator?
What’s your favorite memory(ies) of Minisink Valley?
My favorite memories from my time at Minisink have got to be the several FBLA State Leadership Conferences I have attended. It is always great fun to go to Rochester, present projects, hang out with my friends, and meet brilliant students from across the state.
What advice do you have for students?
All success is a matter of will. In pursuit of your goals, however, do take note that some issues will require more than others; it is your responsibility to make the determination on whether the cost of your ambitions is worth it. Remember, there is nothing impossible to him who will try.
What is a life lesson you learned at Minisink Valley?
There is only so much time in a day, so it is necessary to make choices on what to do and what to postpone. It is a lesson I’m still mastering, but it was introduced to me here at Minisink.
What are your college plans and aspirations for an eventual career?
I know I would like to attend SUNY Binghamton for Economics. Beyond that, though I cannot say that I know exactly where I would like to end up, I am broadly looking forward to a dedicated career in politics at this instant.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years, I see myself either highly successful and involved in government, striving to be the change I want to see in the world, or I’ll be under an overpass somewhere raving about how “the end is near” or something to that effect.
Meet Salutatorian Colin Hansen through this Q&A
What’s important for others to know about your Minisink Valley academic experience?
Alongside the motivation to succeed academically and the support of my teachers and community, what has truly motivated me throughout my time at Minisink Valley has been my family. Without their constant support and influence, I wouldn’t be the person I am today.
What are your extracurricular activities and why are they important to you?
I have run track, played golf, and been an active member of many of our school’s service organizations, such as Future Business Leaders of America, Key Club, and National Honor Society. Outside of school, I am a member of the Lenape Volunteer Ambulance Corps. These extracurriculars are important to me, as they have not only provided me with countless opportunities to give back to our community, but have also taught me valuable life lessons and brought me cherishable memories with friends, family, and people in and outside of our local community.
What’s your favorite memory(ies) of Minisink Valley?
My favorite memories of Minisink Valley have been each one of my trips up to Rochester with our chapter of Future Business Leaders of America for the State Leadership Conference.
What advice do you have for students?
My advice for students is to take every opportunity to follow your dreams, making sure to enjoy the journey regardless of any challenges it may bring.
What is a life lesson you learned at Minisink Valley?
Throughout my time at Minisink Valley, I have learned that the pursuit of success relies not only on hard work but also on the support of loved ones and the experiences made along every path you take.
What are your college plans and aspirations for an eventual career?
I plan to attend Auburn University to study professional flight with aspirations of an eventual career as a professional pilot.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years, I see myself starting as a first officer at my dream airline, Delta, and being able to look back on those who have supported me and the memories I have made along the way.