Listen Live
KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Now with graduation in their rear view, the top 10 studnets of Keene High School’s Class of 2026 look back on four years defined by academic excellence, leadership, service and personal growth. From future engineers and scientists to aspiring writers, architects and health professionals, the graduates credit their success not only to challenging coursework but also to the teachers, friends, clubs and experiences that helped shape their high school journeys.
Lucia Pierannunzi
Lucia Pierannunzi challenged herself with an accelerated academic schedule, including advanced science courses and AP Biology, while competing in varsity volleyball and track and field. She was active in Interact Club, Student Athlete Leadership Council, Class Council, National Honor Society and Envirothon. Her passion for science and community service led her to pursue chemical engineering at Clarkson University.
Evelyn Ormerod
Evelyn Ormerod excelled academically while taking some of Keene High School’s most rigorous courses and will attend Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the fall. Beyond the classroom, she was heavily involved in Math Team, Hiking Club, Band and Drama Club, serving as both stage manager and president of the Drama Club. Her leadership and love of learning helped define her high school experience.
Grace Lyons
Grace Lyons combined strong academics with career-focused learning through the Cheshire Career Center, where she explored business and finance. She earned multiple dual-enrollment credits, participated in Mayor Jay Kahn’s Youth Council, Future Business Leaders of America and the varsity alpine ski team. She plans to study finance on a pre-law track at University of Connecticut.
Autumn Jefts
Autumn Jefts embraced a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities, including AP courses, Careers in Education, Extended Learning Opportunities, Drama Club, Student Council and National Honor Society. She also remained active in dance and musical theater outside of school. Jefts will attend Mount Holyoke College, where she plans to study psychology on a pre-health track with the goal of becoming an occupational therapist.
Calista Scott
Calista Scott credits the friendships she formed at Keene High School as the most meaningful part of her high school experience. A dedicated student who thrived in challenging coursework, she plans to attend Champlain College to study writing and publishing and pursue a career as a book editor.
Greta Ruehr
Greta Ruehr balanced a demanding academic schedule with involvement in Nordic skiing, track and field, Unified Soccer, National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society and Interact Club. Inspired by teachers in science and art, she developed a passion for environmental stewardship and creativity. She plans to continue her education at University of Notre Dame, majoring in architecture.
Avery Johnson
Avery Johnson transformed from a nervous freshman into a student leader, serving as president of both Interact Club and Student Council. A member of the cheerleading team, she excelled in advanced science courses and developed a passion for chemistry and biology. Johnson will attend Smith College to study biochemistry with a pre-med focus.
Catharine Kamphuis
Catharine Kamphuis embraced challenges both inside and outside the classroom, viewing growth and resilience as the defining themes of her high school years. Active in sports, clubs and advanced academics, she credits mentors, teachers and friends with shaping her success. Kamphuis will attend University of Notre Dame to study architecture.
Sarah Heon
Sarah Heon pursued her lifelong interest in aerospace and leadership through challenging coursework, an Extended Learning Opportunity on Ancient Rome, Civil Air Patrol, Girls State, Girls Nation and the HOBY leadership program. Her experiences reinforced her passion for engineering and service. She will attend Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute to study aerospace engineering.
Natasha Walter
Natasha Walter discovered a love for learning and lasting friendships during her time at Keene High School while balancing academics with an intensive dance schedule at MoCo Arts. Her teachers helped prepare her for the discipline and dedication required for her next chapter. Walter will attend Point Park University to major in dance with a concentration in ballet while pursuing a minor in biology.