Roslyn High School has named Benjamin Davidson valedictorian and Matthew Lin salutatorian of the Class of 2026.
“Watching Benjamin and Matthew grow into the remarkable young men they are today has been a privilege,” said Dave Lazarus, principal of Roslyn High School. “Their passion, dedication and kindness shine just as brightly as their impressive achievements. We couldn’t be prouder of all they’ve accomplished and can’t wait to see the impact they will make in the world.”
Davidson will graduate with a 107.063 grade-point average. A National Merit semifinalist and AP Scholar with Distinction, he earned perfect scores on 11 Advanced Placement exams, including Calculus BC, Physics and Computer Science.
He is also a National Merit finalist and received top honors in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, earning a Gold Medal, a Gold Key — which will be evaluated at the national level — and a Silver Key.
Davidson serves as editor-in-chief of the school newspaper, The Hilltop Beacon, leading a staff of more than 30 writers and editors. Under his leadership, the publication received the Quill Award for Best Newspaper on Long Island.
He has also volunteered as head counselor at Sunrise Day Camp, which supports children with cancer.
In athletics, Davidson was a varsity cross-country and track team captain, earning county championships and competing nationally.
He has also developed iOS applications and led initiatives focused on suicide prevention advocacy. Davidson held leadership roles in several honor societies, including the Science National Honor Society.
Lin will graduate with a 106.422 grade-point average. He completed advanced coursework, including multivariable calculus and several AP science and mathematics classes.
Lin conducted chemistry research internships with the Zhong Research Group at Yale University, studying advanced polymers and applying machine learning to identify high-conductivity battery electrolyte compositions. He also collaborated with the Seattle Structural Genomics Center for Infectious Disease on research examining malaria-related proteins, with a manuscript pending publication.
At Roslyn High School, Lin served as captain of the Science Olympiad team, mentoring more than 50 students, and as a chief peer mentor supporting classmates in research and academic development.
Outside school, he founded the nonprofit initiative Revvifi New York and directed education programs for the Nassau County Youth Council.
His research achievements include recognition as a Regeneron Science Talent Search scholar, National Merit finalist and multiple regional science research awards.
