More Long Island Valedictorians and Salutatorians Choose Stony Brook Than Any Other College

Valedictorians and salutatorians from Long Island high schools chose Stony Brook University as their college destination more than any other school in the country, according to a report in Newsday.

Twelve valedictorians and 15 salutatorians from public and private high schools in Nassau and Suffolk Counties will be attending Stony Brook beginning with the Fall 2026 semester.

The incoming students indicated a variety of intended majors across the arts, sciences and more, including biochemistry, biomedical engineering, health sciences, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, music, psychology, applied mathematics and statistics, physics and business management.

Their activities in high school provided another indication of the breadth and depth of the high-achieving students that identified Stony Brook as the place they wanted to continue their educational journey. Students were involved in everything from athletics and ROTC to orchestra and jazz band to student government, model UN and an assortment of community volunteer activities.

"Their choice to attend the top ranked public flagship institution in New York is a testament to the quality of offerings available to them," shared Stony Brook Executive Director of Admissions Mark Cortez. "We are excited to welcome these high achieving students to our community this fall and look forward to supporting their continued community engagement and academic success."

Stony Brook is proud to award special merit scholarships to named valedictorians and salutatorians as part of their financial aid award package. To be eligible for the award, school officials need to provide verification of the designation by September 15.