Class of 2021 Salutatorian: Gavin Smith

It was recently announced that the salutatorian- second in the class- of the Class of 2021 is Gavin Smith. This has been a goal of Smith’s for a long time, as he describes himself as being very academically competitive. This accomplishment is something that he has worked at throughout his time at Holy Family, and his hard work has evidently paid off. 

Smith has not made a definitive college decision yet, though his top choice thus far has been Duke University, followed by Notre Dame, Case Western, Johns Hopkins, and a few others. He plans to study chemistry on the pre-med track with a minor in applied mathematics. Following pre-med, Smith hopes to specialize in either geriatrics or gynecology.

Holy Family has inspired Smith along this track. As he explains: “I have developed a strong work ethic [here] that I hope to carry with me through college, graduate school, and beyond. But above all, Holy Family has taught me to pursue a career that’s meaningful where I can serve others with the talents God has given me.”

Outside of his academically rigorous school schedule, Smith is involved in the Colorado Youth Symphony Orchestra, where he plays the bass clarinet. He also plays golf for Holy Family’s team and spends his extra time as a math and Latin tutor within and outside of Holy Family.

Among the HF faculty and staff, two teachers in particular made the biggest impact on Smith throughout his time here: mathematics teacher Mrs. Gillian Erdmann and history teacher Ms. Amy Davis. 

“Both [teachers] ignited in me a passion for learning that extended well beyond the classroom. In both classes I learned to care less about the grades I received and more about the subject matter. They each handed me the necessary tools, knowledge, and wisdom only cultivated over a lifetime of learning.”

As the seniors of Holy Family attempt to navigate the world lying ahead of them, we all understand the challenges to come. As the end of the year approaches, it is easy to lose the academic diligence we have acquired over the years. However, HF has prepared us to carry this rigor to the rest of our lives.

As Smith explains: “To [my fellow] seniors, I would say this: you can accomplish anything if you work hard at it. You can create any future you want for yourself. And that power is in your hands as you head off to college. It’s not talent that gets you to where you want to be- it’s hard work.”

Smith also wishes to leave the HF student body with a final piece of advice: “Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. Move outside your comfort zone. You’re capable of more than you think you are.”