LAWRENCE, NEW YORK (MARCH 2026)— Lawrence High School proudly announces its top academic honorees for the Class of 2026: Valedictorian Poonam Bansi, Salutatorian Ava Abramov, and Honor Speaker Meredith Maldonado. These exceptional students exemplify academic excellence, leadership, and a strong commitment to their school and community.
Poonam Bansi, this year’s Valedictorian, has distinguished herself through exceptional academic achievement and broad extracurricular involvement. She has been an active member of organizations such as Science Bowl, Asian American Club, Yearbook, and GIA/Model Congress, while serving as Senior Class Treasurer.
A four-year badminton player, Poonam has also participated in programs including the NOAA Youth Ambassador Program, Summer@Brown, and Cornell Precollege. She has demonstrated a strong commitment to service through initiatives like the NYS Blood Drive, Safe Trick or Treat, and the Long Beach Cleanup. Her accomplishments include the Friends of Rock Hall High School Social Studies Award, the ACS High School Chemistry Award, and second place at the DECA State Conference. She has completed a rigorous course load of Advanced Placement classes and is a member of multiple honor societies, including the National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, and National Dance Honor Society.
Salutatorian Ava Abramov has emerged as a dynamic and influential leader within the school and beyond. As President of the Hebrew Culture Club, Multicultural Club, and Newspaper Club, she has fostered inclusivity, cultural awareness, and student engagement. A standout athlete, Ava served as captain of the girls’ basketball team, earning All-Conference Player honors and setting a school record for most three-pointers in a single game.
Her leadership extends into community and global initiatives through her roles in CTEEN and as President of the National Conference of Synagogue Youth (NCSY) Five Towns Chapter. Ava has also excelled in Lawrence High School’s Virtual Enterprise program, advancing from Chief Marketing Officer to Chief Executive Officer, where she led her company in competitions and presentations. Balancing academics, leadership, and professional responsibilities, including positions in retail and a legal internship, Ava has demonstrated exceptional time management and dedication, earning distinctions such as the AP Scholar Award and consistent High Honor Roll recognition.
Honor Speaker Meredith Maldonado is recognized for her outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and dedication to athletics and service. A four-year High Honor Roll student, she has earned distinctions including National Honor Society recognition, a Bronze Award at the Long Island Math Fair, and Nassau County Girls Soccer Scholar-Athlete honors. As President of the Student Government Association and Government in Action, Meredith has played a key role in organizing major school events and leading large-scale student initiatives. She has also led multiple clubs, including the Culinary Club and Italian Club, and contributed to numerous organizations such as DECA, Key Club, and Quiz Bowl.
A three-season captain in Winter Track, Spring Track, and Girls Varsity Soccer, Meredith exemplifies the balance of academic and athletic excellence. She has further demonstrated her commitment to community service through tutoring, volunteer work, and outreach efforts. With a strong interest in science, mathematics, and computer science, particularly artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. Meredith plans to pursue a career in technology while also exploring a double major in biology.
The Lawrence High School community congratulates these outstanding students and looks forward to celebrating their achievements at the graduation ceremony. For more information about the Lawrence UFSD and the latest District news, please visit www.lawrence.org #LawrenceSTRONG
Photo 1: Poonam Bansi - Valedictorian
Photo 2: Ava Abramov - Salutatorian
Photo 3: Meredith Maldonado - Honor Speaker
