Steven Yang has been named the Valedictorian for Newburgh Free Academy’s Class of 2026.

Steven Yang is a scholar, athlete, and mentor whose journey through the Newburgh Enlarged City School District has taken him from Gardnertown Elementary to Heritage Middle School and finally to NFA Main Campus.

Steven’s high school career is a masterclass in versatility and dedication. A standout on the water, he spent four years on the NFA Varsity Crew Team, while also competing for a year with the Varsity Boys Swimming and Diving team. His leadership extends far beyond athletics; Steven serves as the Game & VR Development Lead Teacher at the Newburgh Armory Unity Center, where he shares his technical expertise with the next generation.

His academic resume is equally impressive, featuring a wide array of honors and activities:

• Marist Early College High School Program participant.
• Member of the National, Italian, English, and NYS Science Honor Societies.
• Active leader in NFA Student Council, CyberPatriot, Youth in Government, Italian Club, and the ACS Chemistry Club.

Steven credits much of his success to his supportive parents and family, as well as several key mentors at NFA. He expresses deep gratitude to Mrs. Thomas-Cappello for introducing him to unique computer science opportunities, Mrs. Bonsu for her steadfast guidance, and Coaches Bonesteel, Roy, and LeBron for their encouragement in and out of the boathouse.

This fall, Steven is headed to Binghamton University to study Mechanical Engineering. Whether he is designing the next generation of aircraft as an aerospace engineer or taking to the skies as a pilot, his future is looking sky-high.

Steven’s Words of Wisdom: “Life’s a lot like flying—don’t be afraid to change course, because sometimes the best destinations come from trying a new route.”

Madison Gravel is the Salutatorian for Newburgh Free Academy’s class of 2026.

Madison Gravel is a dedicated scholar and leader whose journey through Newburgh schools—from Fostertown Elementary to South Middle School and NFA Main Campus—has been defined by a deep passion for the arts, athletics, and service.

Madison’s resume is a testament to her versatility. On the field, she has played five years of Varsity Softball and spent four years as a "stat girl" for Varsity Boy's Wrestling, in addition to two years of Varsity Volleyball. Her leadership shines just as brightly in the fine arts; as the President of Madrigals and Vice President of the Tri-M Music Honor Society, she has participated in eight NFA Music Department concerts as a singer and even performed a Piano Solo Recital.

An inductee of the National, Spanish, NYS Science, and Tri-M Honor Societies, Madison balances her academic excellence with significant community contributions. She has volunteered her time at Newburgh Softball Clinics, helped with Greater Newburgh Symphony Orchestra set-ups, and provided lighting assistance for NFA stage crew.

Looking ahead, Madison will attend SUNY New Paltz to study Communication Sciences & Disorders. Inspired by her favorite class, AP Physics with Mr. Kenny, and the mentorship of Mr. Swetz—who taught her the value of passion and fostering a supportive environment—she dreams of becoming a Speech-Language Pathologist. Her goal is to help others gain the confidence to be heard.

Madison’s Advice for Students: "Be curious about what you don't understand. The easiest way to fall behind is sitting in silent confusion; ask questions now to save yourself later."