18-Year-Old Boy Breaks 89-Year-Old Record, Becomes First African-American Valedictorian at US High School

A brilliant 18-year-old student, Darrick Wood, has made history as the first-ever African-American valedictorian at Hammond High School, breaking the school’s 89-year-old record. 

Darrick graduated with an outstanding 4.4 GPA in 2021, achieving academic excellence despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. He credited years of focused effort toward his goal of becoming valedictorian, describing it as a proud moment for both himself and his family. 

In addition to his academic success, Darrick was an active leader—serving as President of the National Honor Society, and participating in various extracurricular activities including baseball, basketball, swimming, and cross-country. He also gave back to his community through consistent volunteer work. 

His remarkable achievements earned him a full-ride scholarship to Northwestern University, where he plans to study Neuroscience with hopes of becoming a Neurologist and returning to serve his hometown community. 

“I actually plan on studying neuroscience and hopefully to be a neurologist, come back to the area where I grew up and practice here,” he shared.