Mocknick Named Co-Valedictorian at River City Early College

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Summer Mocknick graduated from River City Early College as co-valedictorian of the Class of 2025, sharing the prestigious honor with a classmate. For Mocknick, the moment came as a surprise.

“I’m still kind of shocked because I never saw myself as valedictorian until they told me,” Mocknick said. “I’m glad I had someone to share it with, but I still wasn’t expecting it.”

Mocknick finished high school with an impressive 5.8 GPA. When she received the news of being named co-valedictorian, she immediately ran outside to tell her grandfather. Despite the surprise, academic excellence has long been a part of her story. Mocknick has only made one B in her academic career—back in fourth grade.

“I set the expectation for myself,” she said. “My grandparents expected it from me too, but they never pushed it. I just always did it.”

She narrowly maintained her perfect record in her final semester, earning an A on her finals to avoid ending with a B average in one class.

During her time at River City Early College, Mocknick was actively involved in several student organizations, including Key Club, National Honor Society, Phi Theta Kappa, and served as class president for two years.

At graduation, she delivered her valedictory speech in front of classmates, teachers and family members.

“I have loved being your classmate as much as I have loved being your friend,” Mocknick said during her speech. “I can’t wait to see where your dreams, hopes, aspirations, and your heart take you.”

She also spoke about resilience and the importance of setting new goals as life progresses.

Mocknick is the daughter of Katie Mocknick and the granddaughter of Joe and Jerri Mocknick.

“My grandparents inspired it all and have been there for me like no one else,” she said. “My best friend Avery VanNorman was also there for me since the beginning.”

She plans to attend the University of Mississippi, where she will major in special education with the goal of becoming a teacher.