Payson Cunningham ‘25 knows what it is like to succeed- whether it’s been in the classroom, on the cheer floor, or in her volunteer work, Cunningham has been achieving for as long as she can remember. Today’s achievement, however, may be her best one yet- being officially named the valedictorian for Bishop Gorman’s Class of 2025.
Cunningham received the news just a couple of weeks ago, and she understands how much of an honor it is. “I was honestly really surprised and also just grateful,” Cunningham said, “because I know that everyone in the top with me is just as smart and accomplished.” Cunningham has posted consistently good grades and currently maintains a grade point average of 4.71, pacing the class of 2025. It’s a mark that’s even more remarkable considering that Cunningham consistently piled her class workload with advanced placement and scholars classes over her four years at Bishop Gorman.
Her academic performance does not tell the whole story, however. Cunningham leads numerous nonprofit organizations, which includes A Sense of Place, an organization that helps to decorate apartments for those who are displaced and are low-income. She designs home-care packages that include decorations and dining sets, helping those in need get the necessities for living. Cunningham also serves on the board for Hope Means Nevada, and with this, she believes that her work in the community “really sets her apart.” She has also participated in competitive cheer throughout her time in high school, which includes being a captain and three year member of the varsity team and also being a part of California All-Stars, one of the premier club cheer teams in the nation.
The college admissions process is different for each and every student, and in Cunningham’s case, it was somewhat unique. Since she can remember, there’s been one place that she’s always wanted to go: Notre Dame. “I’ve always had my heart set there,” Cunningham said, adding that she “loves the environment, the community, and the professors there.” She’s been around the professors before, and it helps that she was a part of a leadership seminar there this past summer. She is looking forward to joining her brother, last year’s valedictorian, Cooper next year, who is currently a freshman and majoring in psychology.
It’s not just Cunningham that has recognized all of her successes. Her AP Calculus BC teacher, Mr. Henzel, believes she is a great pick for valedictorian. “She’s one of the hardest working students I’ve seen,” Henzel said, adding that “she’s a well-rounded student and goes above and beyond.”
As the valedictorian, Cunningham is tasked with giving a final speech to her peers in the Class of 2025. While it is still a couple of weeks out, she already knows what message she wants to send as her classmates embark on new adventures across all parts of the country. “It’s about the journey and not the destination,” Cunningham said with a smile.
