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

Lam Le – Co-Valedictorian

Lam Le is an exceptional student whose academic achievement is reflected in an outstanding 4.64 GPA, paired with a strong commitment to involvement and leadership. As a member of the track and field team, Lam demonstrates discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. Lam is also actively engaged in Key Club and Spanish Club, contributing to service initiatives and cultural learning experiences. In addition, he serves as a LEAD ambassador, representing the school and supporting initiatives that promote student leadership and engagement. Through a balance of academics, athletics, and service, Lam exemplifies dedication and a commitment to making a positive impact within the school community.

Lam was accepted to the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, William & Mary, Old Dominion University, James Madison University, and Virginia Commonwealth University. He has decided to attend the University of Virginia and major in computer science. He plans to become a software engineer after college and work with or develop artificial intelligence.

Fondest high school memory:
“My favorite high school memory is when I went to New York City for Nike Indoor Nationals with my track and field team.”

A tradition at school you will miss:

“A tradition at my school that I will miss are the game days when our sports team would wear their uniforms or dress up nicely to show that they are having a game. It lets others know that there is a game today so fellow students and teachers can come support.”

An achievement you are most proud of:

“I am most proud of being able to create an impact on my school community as an ambassador.”

I am proud to be an HCS graduate because:

“I am proud to be an HCS graduate because I was able to grow and learn more about myself throughout my academic journey.”

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

“If I had to be honest, I am extremely grateful for all of my teachers because they allowed me to grow in one way or another. For the sake of this question, I would like to thank Mr. Saunders and Mr. Grummell for giving me the opportunity to be an ambassador and grow throughout my ambassador journey. Although they aren't teachers, I absolutely have to thank Coach Deon and the rest of my track coaches for believing in me even during times when I had doubts in myself.”

Wai-Yun Quach – Co-Valedictorian

Wai-Yun Quach is an outstanding student who exemplifies academic excellence with a 4.64 GPA while maintaining an impressive level of involvement across school and community activities. A dedicated athlete, Wai-Yun participates in track, cross country, and soccer, demonstrating perseverance and teamwork. Wai-Yun is also actively engaged in leadership and service through Key Club, the Student Council Association, and as an academy ambassador. With a strong commitment to giving back, he volunteers at Riverside Regional Medical Center and serves as a Vacation Bible School assistant. Additionally, involvement in Roots for STEM highlights a passion for innovation and learning. Wai-Yun’s well-rounded achievements reflect a strong dedication to leadership, service, and personal growth.

Wai-Yun was accepted to Old Dominion University, University of Virginia, James Madison University, Virginia Commonwealth University, William & Mary, and Christopher Newport University. He will attend the University of Virginia and major in kinesiology. His goal after graduation is to complete a physician assistant masters program to become a board-certified physician assistant.

Fondest high school memory:
“My fondest high school memory is talking and laughing in study hall with Ms. Yannarella and my friends.”

A tradition at school you will miss:

“A tradition at my school that I will miss is celebrating the sports at pep rallies and watching their skits.”

An achievement you are most proud of:

“I am most proud of earning the William & Mary Leadership Award.”

I am proud to be an HCS graduate because:

“I am proud to be an HCS graduate because of the connections and experiences I have gained through the opportunities they have given me.”

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

“If I could thank someone, I would thank Dr. Sutton and Coach Deon because they have both impacted me in so many ways. Dr. Sutton has given me a multitude of opportunities and has been an amazing Key Club sponsor. Her dedication and commitment to everything she does has tremendously impacted and inspired me. Coach Deon has been a positive outlet during practice and constantly pushes me to my limits when I run. His mindset and attitude push me to improve myself every day, whether it's on the track or in life.”

Tony Dinh – Salutatorian

Tony Dinh is a dedicated and high-achieving student who maintains an impressive 4.58 GPA while actively contributing to his school community. He is a member of Rho Kappa, Math Honor Society, and Science Honor Society, demonstrating his strong commitment to academic excellence. Tony is also involved in both tennis and volleyball, showcasing teamwork and athletic dedication. In addition, he serves as the morning announcements editor, playing an important role in keeping the school informed and connected. His well-rounded involvement reflects a strong work ethic and commitment to success both in and out of the classroom.

Tony was accepted to William & Mary, University of Virginia, and Virginia Tech. He has decided to attend the University of Virginia and major in mechanical engineering. After college graduation he would like to work for NASA.

Fondest high school memory:
“My fondest high school memory is beating Menchville High School in tennis.”

A tradition at school you will miss:

“I will miss the school pep rallies.”

An achievement you are most proud of:

“I am most proud of receiving Most Improved Tennis Player my freshman year.”

I am proud to be an HCS graduate because:

“I am proud to be an HCS graduate because of the culture that’s here at Kecoughtan.

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

“I would like to thank Ms. Booz.”

Click below to learn more about Lam, Qai-Yun, and Tony.

Lam Le

Wai-Yun Quach

Tony Dinh