Emily Frey Emerges as SRRHS Valedictorian of the Year

Ahead of her studies in biology at the Ivy League University of Pennsylvania, Emily Frey will address her classmates as valedictorian of Sedona Red Rock High School during their graduation on May 21. Over 70 students will join her in celebrating this milestone.

Frey’s academic journey reflects her commitment to excellence. “I’ve always wanted to do my best, whether in sports or academics,” she stated. Her pursuit of knowledge led her to enroll in numerous Advanced Placement (AP) courses, aiming to earn college credits and challenge herself.

Notably, Frey is the first student in the school’s history to achieve an Advanced Placement Capstone Diploma. Fluent in German and having completed ten AP courses, she has also garnered two College Board Distinction Awards. Her AP Research focused on ChatGPT’s writing accuracy, while her AP Seminar explored fentanyl use and the implications of China’s former one-child policy, inspired by her adopted sister.

The youngest of five siblings, she has three sisters and a brother. Her tenacity impressed her educators. “Emily wouldn’t take no for an answer,” said Karyl Goldsmith, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, highlighting Frey’s success in AP classes as a freshman.

Superintendent Tom Swaninger commended Frey’s intellect and compassion during a recent school meeting. “Emily has a brilliant mind and a huge heart,” he remarked, recalling their lighthearted exchanges about dental health, underscoring her aspiration to become a dentist.

Frey’s passion for biology stems from shadowing Dr. Daniel Williams at Sedona Dental Arts. As Student Council president, she has actively engaged in leadership roles and contributed to starting a robotics team that reached state finals within two years.

Her resume includes an internship at Northern Arizona University’s Bioengineering Devices Lab and volunteer work with the Sedona Community Food Bank. She also has coaching experience, leading a middle school volleyball team and previously captaining a club volleyball team.

Since March 2023, Frey has served as the student representative on the Sedona-Oak Creek School District Governing Board. “I’ve learned so much from the board meetings about finances and policy,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of student representation in decision-making processes.

Lauren Robinson, a Governing Board member and Frey’s former swim coach, praised her resilience and positivity. “She’s intelligent, but her engaging smile and personality make her truly special,” Robinson commented.

Looking forward, Frey is eager for the urban experience that awaits in Philadelphia. “I’m excited to restart and explore new opportunities,” she said. Until her departure in mid-August, she will serve as a lifeguard at the Sedona Community Pool.

Having moved to Sedona from New Jersey in 2015, Frey expresses both excitement and apprehension about this next chapter. “But my brother lives in Philadelphia, so it’s reassuring to know I can visit,” she added, ready to embrace new beginnings while cherishing her long-standing connections.