Hampton City Schools announces top students in the Class of 2026 at Hampton High School

Angela Chen – Valedictorian

Angela Chen is an outstanding student whose academic excellence is reflected in her impressive 4.59 GPA, along with a strong commitment to leadership and service. She serves as chair of the Hampton Youth Commission and as president of the Science National Honor Society, while also contributing as a member of Rho Kappa Honor Society, National Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta. Angela is a dedicated varsity girls soccer player and has expanded her academic interests through the Virginia Space Coast Scholars Summer Academy. Her passion for service is evident through her volunteer work with the Virginia Air & Space Science Center, Hampton VA Medical Center, Riverside Regional Medical Center, and Cat Corner Inc. She has also participated in the Young Leaders Summit hosted by the Youth Leadership Consortium and is involved in speech, showcasing her strong communication skills. Angela’s leadership, service, and well-rounded involvement highlight her commitment to making a meaningful impact in her school and community.

Angela was accepted to Virginia Tech, University of Virginia, and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She plans to attend either University of Virginia or University of Michigan (waitlisted) and major in biomedical engineering. After college she plans to pursue a masters degree.

Fondest high school memory:
“My fondest high school memory is the late night soccer games.”

A tradition at school you will miss:

“My favorite tradition is saying the Hampton cheer during soccer games.”

An achievement you are most proud of:

“I am proud of entering spaces and events which I have no prior connection or information of. It is through these spaces which my perspective has broadened and I have the opportunity to befriend and learn from people across the U.S.”

I am proud to be an HCS graduate because:

“I am proud to be an HCS graduate because I have received opportunities to learn more about the Hampton community and create an impact in my city.”

If you could thank a teacher who had the greatest impact on you, who would it be and why?

“I would thank Mr. Zama for being an energetic teacher and keeping our classes entertained with his songs.”

Angelina Christie – Salutatorian

Angelina Christie is a dedicated and well-rounded student who exemplifies academic excellence with a 4.55 GPA while actively contributing to her school and community. She is a member of the tennis team and a standout leader in the marching, concert, and symphonic bands, serving as hornline captain and section leader. Angelina is also an engaged scholar, participating in Tri-M Music Honor Society, National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta. Demonstrating strong leadership and a passion for language and culture, she serves as president of Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica and Spanish Club, and is also a member of the Investment Club. Beyond the classroom, Angelina gives back through volunteer work at the Peninsula Regional Animal Shelter and the Virginia Air & Space Science Center. Her leadership, service, and commitment to excellence make her a valued member of her school community.

Angelina was accepted to Pennsylvania State University, University of Pittsburgh, Millersville University, University of Oklahoma, University of Virginia, University of Delaware, and Virginia Commonwealth University. She plans to attend the University of Virginia and major in environmental studies. After college graduation she hopes to become an environmental specialist that protects human health and the environment by identifying, analyzing, and mitigating pollution/environmental hazards.

Fondest high school memory:
“My fondest high school memory is when I did a Summer Residential Governor's School for visual & performing arts and humanities of my rising senior year. I had so much fun there and met amazing people. It was something I wish I could experience again.”

A tradition at school you will miss:

“I will miss playing in the marching band at football games with my friends.”

An achievement you are most proud of:

“An achievement I am most proud of is that I made 3rd chair alto sax in the symphonic band for district band. I made all-district every year in high school, being the only student from Hampton High School to make it. I loved representing Hampton High School at district band!”

I am proud to be an HCS graduate because:

“I am proud to be an HCS graduate, as the IB Academy at Hampton High School fostered a rigorous academic environment that taught me invaluable time-management skills, preparing me for success in college.”

If you could thank a teacher who had the greatest impact on you, who would it be and why?

“I would like to thank Mr. Bell for helping me get out of my shell little by little. I think it definitely helped me with standing outside of my comfort zone and putting me into something I am unfamiliar with. I couldn't thank him enough because it helped me shape who I am today.”

Click below to learn about Angela and Angelina.

Angela Chen

Angelina Christie