Make it a vision, not just a goal: Port Gibson’s Kaniya Walker Named Valedictorian

PORT GIBSON, Miss. (VDN) — Kaniya Walker, a standout senior at Port Gibson High School, delivered her valedictory address on Friday, May 23, achieving a goal she set for herself at the age of 5.

Walker, who was also honored as one of this year’s STAR Student and crowned Miss Port Gibson High School, will attend Mississippi State University in the fall, where she plans to major in psychology.

“Being valedictorian has been a dream of mine since I graduated from Little Kids University daycare in 2012,” Walker said. “Since then, I prayed hard, put in the work, and it’s amazing that it all paid off.”

Walker emphasized the importance of long-term dedication and vision when asked about her academic journey.

“It definitely takes a strong will, but if you want something bad enough, all the struggles feel like a means to an end,” she said. “Make it a vision, not just a goal.”

Her aspirations go far beyond high school the graduate said.

“I plan to become a clinical psychologist,” she said. “I’ve always been interested in the way people think and how the brain works. I’ve also always considered myself a good listener, so I know I wanted to do something related to sharing my thoughts and advice with others.”

When asked who helped her along the way, Kaniya was quick to express gratitude.

“I give all my thanks to my sister Erielle, my two best friends Mybreonna and Michael—who is also my boyfriend—and the best teacher, Mr. Derron Warner,” she said. “Mr. Warner was more than a teacher. He genuinely cared about his students, helped me stay on top of my work, made learning fun, and gave me skills and opportunities I’ll carry into the future.”