Earl L. Vandermeulen High School proudly announces the Class of 2026 valedictorian, Max Kronberg, and salutatorian, Narin Karakurum. Both students exemplify academic excellence, leadership, and a deep commitment to research and community engagement.

Valedictorian Max Kronberg will attend Brown University in the fall. Throughout his high school career, Max has distinguished himself through both exceptional academic achievement and a deep commitment to advanced research. He conducted computational quantum chemistry research at Brookhaven National Laboratory, demonstrating both creativity and scientific rigor. In addition, Max pursued research in addiction and psychiatry at Mount Sinai Hospital, further showcasing his intellectual curiosity and dedication to exploring complex, real-world issues. He earned Gold and Silver Key awards for photography from the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. He has been recognized as a Commended National Merit Scholar and achieved AP Scholar with Distinction status, along with earning the prestigious AP Capstone Diploma. Beyond the classroom and laboratory, Max is also a dedicated member of the school’s tennis team, balancing the demands of athletics with his academic pursuits while exemplifying discipline, teamwork, and school spirit. 

Salutatorian Narin Karakurum will attend Yale University. A well-rounded scholar, she conducted and published colorectal cancer research at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, earning recognition for her scientific contributions. She is a Gold-tier National Latin Exam Award winner and a dedicated leader, serving as a Board of Education Representative and Student Organization President, where she organized 20+ events and raised roughly $2,000 annually. Narin also participated in the Stony Brook University–Port Jefferson I-STEM program, where they studied cancer biology and related fields. In addition to her academic achievements, she was an active member of the arts, performing in seven Drama Club productions and singing as a soprano in the chamber choir, The Monarchs. Her service to the community includes approximately 570 volunteer hours, earning her the Gold-Tier Presidential Volunteer Service Award. The school community congratulates both students on their outstanding accomplishments and looks forward to celebrating their success at graduation.

Earl L. Vandermeulen High School’s Class of 2026 Valedictorian, Max Kronberg, and Salutatorian, Narin Karakurum, were formally recognized at the Board of Education meeting for their outstanding academic achievements and dedication.

Their hard work, leadership, and commitment to excellence truly set them apart. We celebrate all they’ve accomplished and look forward to seeing the impact they’ll make in the future!

Congratulations, Max and Narin!