Stockbridge Recognizes Top Ten Seniors Ahead of Graduation
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Stockbridge Recognizes Top Ten Seniors Ahead of Graduation

by Hope Salyer

As graduation day approaches, the Stockbridge Community News is proud to recognize the outstanding academic achievements of the Class of 2026 Top Ten Seniors. These students have distinguished themselves through years of hard work, dedication, leadership and commitment to excellence both inside and outside the classroom.

The Stockbridge Community News congratulates each of these exceptional graduates and wishes them continued success as they begin the next chapter of their educational and professional journeys.

Special thanks to Stockbridge High School’s Kim Killinger for compiling the student information and photographs featured in this section.

Each of these students has left a unique mark on Stockbridge High School through academic achievement, leadership, extracurricular involvement and community service. Read on to learn more about the accomplishments, interests and future plans of the Class of 2026 Top Ten Seniors.

JayLee Chapman – Valedictorian – 4.0 GPA

JayLee Chapman, daughter of JuLee and James Chapman, has distinguished herself as a leader both in and out of the classroom. A four-year class officer and current class president, she has also been active in National Honor Society (NHS), Student Council, 4-H, cross country, equestrian team, basketball and track. Chapman has earned numerous academic honors while completing more than 85 hours of community service. In the fall, she will attend Michigan State University’s Honors College to study kinesiology and business.

Bradley Rowe – Valedictorian – 4.0 GPA

Bradley Rowe, son of Russell and Christine Rowe, has earned numerous academic honors, scholar-athlete awards and conference recognitions throughout high school. A leader on and off the field, he has served as an NHS president and varsity soccer captain while also participating in golf and Unified Basketball. Rowe has logged more than 75 hours of community service and enjoys soccer, golf and spending time with family and friends. He plans to attend Michigan State University’s Honors College to pursue a degree in engineering.

Madison Rusnock – Valedictorian – 4.0 GPA

Madison Rusnock, daughter of Jennifer and Steve Rusnock, has earned academic recognition across a variety of subjects while staying involved in yearbook, softball, NHS and student leadership. As a class officer and dedicated volunteer, she has balanced academics with service and extracurricular involvement. Rusnock enjoys reading, listening to music and helping coach softball. She plans to attend Bowling Green State University to study resort and attraction management.

Wendy Cowan – Salutatorian – 3.9847 GPA

Wendy Cowan, daughter of Allan and Elizabeth Cowan, has excelled academically throughout high school, earning top GPA honors and recognition in subjects including English, chemistry, biology, government and AP coursework. She has been active in NHS, Student Council and both sideline and competitive cheerleading. Cowan has volunteered with community education events, blood drives and local organizations. She plans to attend Grand Valley State University following graduation.

Brandon Hamlett – 3.9683 GPA

Brandon Hamlett, son of Nick and April Hamlett, has earned numerous academic and scholar-athlete honors while balancing a demanding schedule of athletics and leadership activities. He has participated in football, basketball, golf and track, while also serving as class treasurer and a member of NHS. Hamlett has contributed more than 80 hours of community service through tutoring, food drives and school events. He plans to attend Lansing Community College before transferring to Michigan State University to study marketing and business administration.

McKenna Mezo – 3.9598 GPA

McKenna Mezo, daughter of Robert Mezo and Mandi Treacey, has consistently ranked among the top students in her class, earning multiple academic awards and top GPA recognition. She has been active in varsity softball, NHS and yearbook while volunteering through numerous service projects. An avid reader who enjoys puzzles and helping others, Mezo plans to attend Jackson College for general studies before transferring to a university to continue her education.

Edward Daniel Villegas-Castaneda – 3.9515 GPA

Edward Daniel Villegas-Castaneda, son of Christina and Carlos Villegas, has excelled academically while participating in a wide range of athletics and service activities. A member of NHS, he has competed in soccer, track, baseball, golf and Unified Basketball while earning scholar-athlete recognition and top GPA honors. Villegas-Castaneda has completed approximately 170 hours of community service, demonstrating a strong commitment to giving back. He plans to attend the University of Michigan School of Kinesiology following graduation.

Tayla Trapp – 3.910 GPA

Tayla Trapp, daughter of Leanne and Jeff Trapp, has achieved academic excellence throughout high school, earning numerous honors, academic achievement awards and top GPA recognition. She has served as NHS secretary, yearbook editor-in-chief, and participated in basketball and equestrian competitions. Trapp has completed more than 65 hours of community service and enjoys reading, painting and riding horses. She plans to attend Lansing Community College before transferring to Michigan State University to pursue zoology and eventually become a zoo veterinarian.

Tessa Hoskins – 3.8617 GPA

Tessa Hoskins, daughter of Casey Robinson, has earned academic honors throughout high school while participating in softball, competitive cheer and NHS. Known for her dedication both in the classroom and in extracurricular activities, she enjoys reading, spending time outdoors and volunteering in her community. Following graduation, Hoskins plans to attend Jackson College to pursue general sonography while working as a medical assistant and phlebotomist.

Shelby O’Koney – 3.8585 GPA

Shelby O’Koney, daughter of Michael O’Koney and Debbie Nogle, has combined academic excellence with outstanding leadership and school involvement. She serves as editor-in-chief of Uncaged, participates in NHS and Student Council, and has been a four-year varsity cheerleader and team captain. O’Koney also competed in track and field and softball while volunteering at Chelsea Hospital’s surgery center. She will attend the University of Michigan to study biology on a pre-med track with the goal of becoming a surgeon.

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