DIXFIELD — Dirigo High School student Emma Lueders has been named valedictorian of the Class of 2016.

Lueders, daughter of Jane and Carl Lueders of Canton, said she is pleased to be recognized for her years of hard work.

Salutatorian Kylie Palmer of Dixfield agrees with Lueders.

“It’s validation for all the hard work,” she said.

Palmer is the daughter of Ronda and Michael Palmer.

Lueders and Palmer are looking past graduation ceremonies at 6 p.m. Friday, June 10, toward the future.

“I’m excited for the next chapter, to learn what college has in store and to becoming more independent,” Lueders said.

She plans to attend the University of Maine and possibly major in medical laboratory sciences.

“I love science and the medical field,” she said. “I believe it would be very interesting.”

Palmer also plans to attend UMaine, possibly majoring in English, with a goal of becoming an English professor or to further her education in law school.

Both women have been very active during high school, participating in many sports, as well as being members of the National Honor Society and the Outing Club. They enjoy hiking, swimming or camping and have volunteered for several organizations.

Lueders is also president of her class, as well as a member of the Ecology Club. Palmer is vice president of the Interact Club, a youth branch of Rotary International. Both have also completed several college credits during high school.

Palmer advises younger students to not fear trying new things.

Lueders, who plans to operate a farm stand this summer, advised younger students to always do their work and to be involved.

“It adds to the high school experience,” she said.

Palmer advised underclassmen to take college classes while in high school.

“It saves you money,” she said.

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