West Babylon UFSD

West Babylon Senior High School has announced Julian Cruz as valedictorian and
Dheera Misra as salutatorian in the Class of 2026. 
Julian has demonstrated strong leadership and commitment through a wide range of academic, extracurricular and community-based activities. He has served as treasurer and later copresident of the Tri-M Music Honor Society. A charter member and copresident of the Math Honor Society, Julian played a key role in establishing the chapter and supporting peers through additional academic help. His involvement in the Science Olympiad as a state-level competitor and team leader, along with participation in a Brookhaven National Laboratory research team studying protein structures, highlights both academic excellence and initiative.
In addition to academics, Julian has made meaningful contributions through the arts, athletics and service. As an alto saxophone section leader in both jazz band and marching band, he has earned recognition for his musical achievements while mentoring fellow students. Athletically, Julian has competed as a varsity track sprinter and volleyball player, demonstrating leadership by organizing workouts and supporting teammates. Next fall, Julian will be attending the University of Virginia to study economics and statistics. 
    Dheera has shown academic initiative and leadership through a wide range of STEM, music and service-based activities. As a participant in the Brookhaven National Laboratory SPARK Program, she conducted advanced research in protein crystallography. Her commitment to Science Olympiad earned her a place on the state team for two years, along with multiple regional medals. Dheera also served as secretary and copresident of the Tri-M Music Honor Society, organizing fundraisers and service initiatives, while also mentoring peers through Math Club and supporting fellow students academically through National Honor Society tutoring.
Beyond academics, Dheera is deeply involved in the arts, athletics and community service. She is a dedicated violist in chamber orchestra and an accomplished NYSSMA participant selected for SCMEA. As a multiyear captain of the varsity track and winter track teams, she demonstrated leadership by coaching younger athletes and fostering team development. Her community service extends to National Art Honor Society projects, Health Club initiatives such as blood drives and youth education, and volunteering in a nursing home rehabilitation department. She will be attending Hofstra University for physician assistant studies.