From Homeless Shelter to Valedictorian: Inspiring Story of New Orleans High School Graduate

A student from Louisiana has achieved the remarkable feat of being named valedictorian of⁣ his high school while residing at a homeless shelter in New Orleans for the past 18 months.

>> Discover⁢ more trending news

With a 3.93 grade-point average, Elijah Hogan graduated from Walter L. Cohen ⁢High School on May 24,⁣ as reported by WDSU-TV . Despite facing the challenges of living ⁤at the Covenant House, ⁢a shelter for ⁢youths aged ⁤16 to 22 in New Orleans, Hogan managed to excel academically.

Reflecting on his achievement, Hogan expressed his disbelief, stating, "I thought they were⁤ mistaking me for someone else, but when I looked⁣ at⁤ it and I was shown evidence that⁣ it was me, I was in awe, like, I was jaw dropped," in an interview with CNN .

Overcoming Adversity As one of the two⁢ valedictorians in the Class of 2024 at Cohen ⁢High School, located in New Orleans' Uptown neighborhood, Hogan delivered a poignant valedictorian address ⁤during his graduation ceremony, referring to it as a "thank-you note"⁤ to the community.

Following the loss ⁢of his mother at the age of 8, Hogan had⁤ been living with his grandmother since he was 11, according to WDSU . However, circumstances changed ⁢when the⁤ lease on their home expired, leading to their homelessness as the property ⁤owner decided to⁤ sell the house, as reported by CNN . Given 30 days to vacate, Hogan made the decision to live independently to ease his⁣ grandmother's⁤ burden.

Pursuing Higher Education Despite the challenges he faced during his final year ⁤of high school, Hogan remained resilient and determined. He shared, "It’s been tough and⁢ rough, had a few trips and falls down, (but) I’m all right," ⁣with "Good⁣ Morning America."

Looking ahead, Hogan is set⁤ to continue his education⁤ at Xavier University in New Orleans in ⁢the⁣ fall, where he ⁤has secured a full scholarship⁢ for tuition, according to⁢ WDSU . His academic⁢ journey will focus on graphic design as his major.

Celebrating Success Jerel Bryant, the CEO of Collegiate ⁢Academies, ⁤the organization overseeing Hogan's former high school, commended his achievements, stating, "Elijah’s accomplishments are worth celebrating. We know that they are ⁣a product⁢ of his character⁢ and the choices he made day after day to pursue his dreams," as reported by CNN . Bryant emphasized the excellence and capability of Black youth, not only⁤ in New Orleans but across the nation.

Gratitude and Support Expressing his⁤ gratitude, Hogan acknowledged the ⁤support he received ⁤from various ⁢individuals and organizations, including the Covenant House, where⁤ he resided alongside four⁢ other students completing their high school education.

While his⁣ tuition expenses are ⁤covered, Hogan faces the⁣ challenge of securing housing. To address this, he initiated a GoFundMe campaign ⁢to raise ⁢funds for his accommodation costs, ⁣with over $26,600 pledged as of Sunday evening.

Jarkayla Cobb, Hogan's case ⁢worker, highlighted his exceptional qualities, stating, "I can see ⁣him ⁤really just enjoying this moment. ⁢It was all I could ask for. ⁣Such a great moment," as reported by WDSU .