MEET THE VALEDICTORIAN AND SALUTATORIAN
Daniel Shusharin is the valedictorian for the senior class of 2026. Alongside him, Celia Minonne is the salutatorian. Both coming from a similar background, Daniel and Celia graduated from CJB in 2022 and have since distinguished themselves through their dedication, discipline, and consistent pursuit of excellence.
For a more personal look, Daniel shared that his favorite memory at Providence was going to the Math Team State during his freshman year, an experience that reflects his early commitment to challenging himself and contributing to a team environment. His favorite class over the past four years has been AP Physics, where he strengthened his problem-solving and analytical thinking skills. He also credits his favorite teacher, Ms. Gura, for pushing him to grow, stating, “Ms. Gura challenged me the most and brought me out of my shell academically.”
As a leader, Daniel sets a strong example through his work ethic, focus, and ability to elevate those around him. He leads not by seeking attention, but by consistently performing at a high level and encouraging others to do the same. In academic settings and group environments, he is known for being reliable, composed under pressure, and willing to support his peers, helping create a more motivated and collaborative atmosphere.
Daniel will be attending Northwestern University, where he plans to major in applied mathematics. His leadership, combined with his academic achievements, positions him well for continued success. Offering advice to underclassmen, he shares, “Even if you enjoy one subject, prioritize all of them because the skills from other subjects all coincide with one another,” a perspective that reflects both his discipline and his ability to think beyond individual subjects toward broader success.
Celia Minonne is the salutatorian for the senior class of 2026. One of Celia’s favorite memories from Providence has been welcoming incoming freshmen at band camp each year and giving them tours of the school. She values being among the first to introduce new students to the community, continuing a tradition of support and encouragement she once received herself. This experience highlights her natural leadership, as she actively creates a positive and inclusive environment for others.
Celia found it difficult to choose just one favorite class, as many have shaped her high school experience. She notes that band has been a constant highlight throughout all four years, while classes such as Spanish 3H, AP Language, Geometry H, and Physics H also stood out as particularly meaningful. While Algebra 1H proved to be her most challenging class, it ultimately became a turning point in her academic journey. She explains that developing a more open mindset allowed her to grow and succeed in more advanced courses, a lesson she now shares with others by encouraging them to focus on learning rather than perfection.
Throughout her time at Providence, Celia has been influenced by many teachers, including Mrs. DeVries, Mr. Baltzer, Mr. Rocha, Mrs. Walker, Ms. Gura, and Mr. DeVivo. Their guidance and support have helped shape her both academically and personally, further strengthening her ability to lead and connect with others.
Celia will be attending Villanova University, where she plans to major in biochemistry and minor in music. She hopes to pursue a future in gene editing while continuing her Catholic education. As a leader, Celia stands out for her ability to guide others with empathy, adaptability, and encouragement.
In offering advice to underclassmen, Celia emphasizes the importance of adaptability and compassion. She encourages students to remain open to change and to support those around them, recognizing that even small acts of kindness can make a significant difference.
Both Daniel and Ceila’s first memory of each other is competing in the grade school academic bowl competitions together during seventh and eighth grade at CJB. Ceila tells the story of. “I specifically remember one year we were at the Providence competition, and Daniel was late. Another girl on our team called him because we were starting in a few minutes, and when he answered, he said it was Saturday, so we obviously didn’t have school. Somehow, he still made it on time and we got second place.” Daniel recalls about Ceila that as long as he could remember “she’s always been admirably prepared and on top of things even when we did little things like chess club together,” later stating that “her intelligence and respectful demeanor will take her far and I’m proud to have grown together over the years”.
Providence is lucky to have such wonderful students leaving their legacy!
