Two outstanding high school students were recently recognized for their excellence both in athletics and academics at the Northwest Regional Education Cooperative 23rd Annual Scholar Athlete Honors Banquet, held Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Northern New Mexico College Event Center.
Lina Valdez and Brandon Friday were honored as our 2026 Scholar Athletes.
This recognition celebrates students who demonstrate dedication, leadership, and achievement in both academics and sports—setting a strong example for their peers and community. We congratulate these students on their hard work and commitment to success, and we wish them continued achievement in their future endeavors.
Here is a biography about each one of our students:
Lina Valdez is a senior at Dulce High School who has spent most of her life in Dulce, building strong connections within her school and community. Throughout high school, she has consistently challenged herself to go above and beyond, both academically and through leadership.
Lina has been actively involved in the National Honors Society, Student Council, Equity Council, and work-based learning as an intern, while also serving as president of her senior class.
In addition to her academic and leadership accomplishments, Lina has participated in cross-country, basketball, and track and field, demonstrating her dedication and well-rounded character. She has committed her time and energy to making the most of her high school experience and contributing positively to those around her. Lina also hopes to be a positive role model for her younger siblings and underclassmen, showing them that with hard work and determination, they can achieve their goals.
Lina reflects on her high school years with gratitude and appreciation, especially for the unwavering support of her family and friends. She gives special thanks to her father, Orlando Muniz, and her mother, Melissa Largo, for their love and encouragement throughout her journey.
Brandon Friday is a high school senior with a hands-on approach to learning, thriving when he can engage directly with real-world work. He plans to attend WyoTech to pursue light diesel mechanics, seeking a structured environment where his strong work ethic can continue to grow.
Alongside his mechanical interests, Brandon values creative expression—he writes and produces music and keeps a journal to reflect on the experiences that have shaped him.
He is equally committed to his physical health, maintaining discipline through regular workouts.
Looking ahead, Brandon aspires to expand his skills beyond mechanics by studying herbalism, returning to his passion for playing the violin in orchestra, and pushing his gaming abilities toward a professional level. Grounded in discipline, creativity, and a constant drive to improve, he approaches his future with determination.
Brandon credits much of who he is today to the support and guidance of his mother, Misty Monarco, his grandmother, Judith Vicenti, and his uncle, Audie Atole, whose influence has helped shape him into the man he is becoming.