Defing Odds: Homeless Student Graduates as Valedictorian
Despite the adversities he faced, Hogan found a supportive community at both his high school and the shelter, which he credits for his success. “I have people that were there to help me get through it. And without them, I wouldn’t have been where I’m at now as a valedictorian,” Hogan expressed his gratitude towards his fellow students, teachers, and staff.
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In an inspiring story of resilience and determination, a 19-year-old Louisiana student, Elijah Hogan, has defied all odds to graduate as valedictorian from Walter L. Cohen High School, US ,while residing in a homeless shelter.
Hogan’s high school journey began amidst the challenges of remote learning during the peak of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. Despite these hurdles, he recently completed his senior year while living at Covenant House, a shelter serving youth under 22 in New Orleans.
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Despite the adversities he faced, Hogan found a supportive community at both his high school and the shelter, which he credits for his success. “I have people that were there to help me get through it. And without them, I wouldn’t have been where I’m at now as a valedictorian,” Hogan expressed his gratitude towards his fellow students, teachers, and staff.
With an impressive final GPA of 3.93, Hogan was one of two valedictorians in the class of 2024 at Cohen, a charter high school located in New Orleans’ Uptown neighborhood.
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Jana DeCoster, director of student activities at Cohen High School, and Jarkayla Cobb, Hogan’s Rites of Passage case worker at Covenant House, are among the many who have witnessed and contributed to Hogan’s success. DeCoster praised Hogan’s graciousness in acknowledging not just his own achievements, but those of his classmates as well.
Cobb, who first met Hogan in 2023, noted his significant transformation. “He was very shy. He had very little words at first, so it’s just awesome to see how much he’s developed and become so well-spoken over the last seven or eight months,” she said.
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Hoogan reveals his plans to attend Xavier University of Louisiana in the fall, where he hopes to major in graphic design.
For other students aspiring to follow in his footsteps, Hogan advises focusing on education. “There is a time and place where you can have fun, but try to keep yourself organized on some of your education as well, because without your education, you will not be able to get through the hardships and meet the people that helped you along the way,” he said.
