Manhasset High School has announced the Class of 2016 
valedictorian to be Jason Fiacco and salutatorian to be Julia Henry. Both are extremely active in the community as well as athletics and academics. Both are Ivy League-bound, Fiacco to Yale University and Henry to Havard University, but there is more that sets them apart. Last week the salutatorian was covered, this week the valedictorian is introduced. This is the second in a 2-part series.
Jason Fiacco
Throughout all four years of high school, Jason Fiacco has participated in the science research program at Manhasset and loved it. Last summer, he conducted biochemical research at Stony Brook University as part of the Simons Summer Research Program. Fiacco speaks fondly of his mentor Dr. Aaron Neiman, who he met at Stony Brook. “Dr. Neiman’s lab was very different from what I expected; he showed me how to be fun and creative when designing experiments and presenting them to the public,” said Fiacco.
One of the highlights of his high school career occurred in May of 2015, said Fiacco. “I advanced to the Intel ISEF (International Science and Engineering Fair) science competition in Pittsburgh. It was great meeting student scientists from around the world. I came home with the Second Place Grand Award in Biochemistry.”
He has played on varsity soccer, lacrosse and golf teams at Manhasset. He is also an avid skier and competed on the Mount Snow Vermont Freestyle ski team. He has participated in several clubs and is the president of the Social Studies Honor Society. Outside of school, he plays piano competitively and volunteers at Northwell Health Hospital.
When asked what it means to be named valedictorian, Fiacco replied, “To me, being valedictorian means getting the privilege of saying goodbye at graduation to all the amazing people that I have met over the years.”
He credits his family, friends, teachers and coaches who have influenced him and encouraged him to try his best.
In closing, Fiacco had this to
say, “I’ve had the opportunity
to work with amazing teammates through sports, as well as with amazing peers in the Manhasset Science Research Program. I’ve always loved being around people, and in the future, I hope to
discover more incredible people.”
Manhasset High School will hold its graduation ceremony on next Friday. Congratulations to the graduating Class of 2016. From the editor: May the Class of 2016 move with confidence toward your future and make a positive impact in the world.
