Meet Oswego High School's Valedictorians

It takes a special kind of person to be valedictorian of your senior class. And this year, Oswego High School has two such special people. They're tops in a class of 491 graduates.

Here, as provided by District 308, is a little bit about both of them. Ladies and gentlemen, Jessica Demes and Riley Vann, co-valedictorians of ’s class of 2012.

Jessica Demes

Jessica Demes is a lifelong learner. She wants to do everything, try everything and learn about all that the world has to offer. She approaches each class as she approaches everything in her life, with equal enthusiasm and excitement for learning.

During her time at Oswego High School, Jessica has successfully taken Honors, Accelerated Honors and Advanced Placement course work in all of the core academic areas. In addition, she has tried her hand at everything from Music Theory to AP United States Government; from Spanish to AP Biology. Through these classes Jessica has not only earned the rank of Co-Valedictorian, but has also gained a wealth of knowledge, and a wide array of experiences. Jessica’s true passion is science. She has earned an A or A+ in every science class she has taken. As a senior, Jessica was selected for participation in Medical Topics, as well as taking on the challenge of both AP Chemistry and Honors Physics.

Outside the classroom, Jessica has shown her academic prowess as a member of the Mathletes team; her strong communication skills as a tutor for fellow high school students; and her compassion for others by volunteering for over 100 hours of community service. In each activity, Jessica has demonstrated a compassion for others, a strong work ethic and a high degree of character. These traits were further recognized by her selection to the National Honor Society.

Riley Vann

Riley is an excellent all-around athlete, a member of numerous clubs and activities, and the Co-Valedictorian of the Class of 2012. What truly sets Riley apart, though, is her sense of service and character in everything she does.

As an "academician," Riley has consistently challenged herself with honors and Advanced Placement course work. Riley approaches each class, whether it’s AP Calculus or Wind Symphony, AP US History or Spanish 4, as she does every aspect of her life, with an equal enthusiasm and love of learning.

Outside the classroom, Riley has accomplished a great deal. She has competed in the Illinois High School Association’s State Finals in both hurdles and pole vault. Her team elected her as captain because of her outstanding leadership ability. In addition, she was chosen as "Most Valuable Player."

Riley’s service, though, sometimes goes unnoticed. She quietly goes about raising money and awareness for many causes, both local and nationwide. This year, Riley took a lead role in a coordinating a dance marathon for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. She arranged everything from chaperones to advertising. The event was an incredible success, raising several thousand dollars for charity and providing a great opportunity for her fellow classmates.