Sequoyah High School Names Valedictorian, Salutatorian

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. - Sequoyah High School has named Layla Harrington as its class of 2026 valedictorian and Emma Culie as its salutatorian.

Sequoyah's commencement ceremony for the class of 2026 will take place on the school's campus at 6:30 p.m. on May 12 at the Place Where They Play.

"Education has long been a core value of the Cherokee Nation. Cherokees have a longstanding tradition of excellence in education, and the Sequoyah High School class of 2026 is no exception," Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. said. "These graduates have much to look forward to as they enter the workforce or continue their education. Either way, the Cherokee Nation is proud of their hard work and dedication."

The graduating class includes 59 students, several of which have accepted scholarship offers from collegiate institutions such as Northeastern State University, University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University.

"As we watch these students prepare to receive their high school diploma soon, I know the future is bright. They are resilient, smart and determined and I can't wait to see what they achieve next," said Cherokee Nation Deputy Principal Chief Bryan Warner.

Layla Harrington, of Westville, Okla., is the daughter of Michael and Darla Harrington and is Cherokee. She is the Sequoyah High School's valedictorian with a weighted GPA of 4.47.

"My goal freshman year was to be the valedictorian for my class, and it's a relief to finally achieve that," said Harrington.

Harrington, a Gates Scholar, is involved in many extracurricular activities, including serving as the president of FCA and FCS, as well as running in cross country and track. She hopes to double major in psychology and political science at the University of Arkansas.

Emma Culie, of Peggs, Okla., is the daughter of Eddie and Corbi Culie and is Cherokee. Culie is the Sequoyah High School salutatorian with a weighted GPA of 4.35.

Culie has been accepted to the University of North Texas where she plans on continuing her softball career. She plays on the Sequoyah High School softball team and previously participated in track and basketball.

"It feels good to be salutatorian," said Culie. "I was drawn to North Texas by the softball coaches, so I want to keep playing. I'm planning on using the scholarship offered by Cherokee Nation."