A first-generation scholar, Katelyn plans to major in chemistry at UT-Austin. She graduated fourth in her class at Waco High. While in high school, Katelyn participated in choir, tennis, student council and National Honor Society. Active in community service, she volunteered for the Cameron Park Zoo, Caritas, Friends for Life, Miracle Match Marathon and more. She also worked at H-E-B. She also loves to paint in her spare time, a hobby she picked up during the pandemic.

At Mart, Allyson was involved in UIL journalism, one-act play, basketball, volleyball, student council, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and National Honor Society. She also was a Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo Sweetheart. Her volunteer work includes Storybook Christmas, Food for Families, Miracle Match Marathon, the Texas Foodtruck Showdown, among others. She graduated as salutatorian of her class and plans to major in psychology at Baylor.

Salutatorian of her graduation class, Ithzel, plans to major in psychology and English at Rice University. The first-generation scholar played French horn in band and was a state-level soloist her senior year. She also served as team captain of the UIL journalism team and was the first La Vega freshman to qualify for a UIL regional competition. Ithzel also was Student Council Reporting Secretary for three years and competed in the Heart of Texas Regional History Fair, qualifying for State competition her sophomore year. She is an MCC Stone Circle Writers Club member and volunteered at the McLennan County Public Library. She holds a Brown Belt in martial arts.

A Dell Scholar and Academic Achiever, Darryl Thomas plans to major in health and fitness at TCU. He transferred to University from Midway after ninth grade and ranked in the Top 10 of his UHS class. While in high school, Darryl showed his athletic prowess in football, basketball, track and powerlifting and was recognized as a Smoaky’s Academic All-Star and a Victory Bowl nominee. He also was a member of National Honor Society and AVID. Additionally, he volunteered for the Camp Gladiator Victory Camp and Shepherd’s Heart Food Pantry. Darryl worked at Sonic Drive-In during high school.