Jonathan Hong and Jayden Cheng (Photos – PUSD)
Pasadena High School has announced Jonathan Hong and Jayden Cheng as the Valedictorian and Salutatorian, respectively, of the Class of 2026, recognizing two students whose achievements exemplify exceptional academic excellence, leadership, and dedication to their passions.
By Rena Kurlander
Valedictorian Jonathan Hong
Jonathan Hong, the Class of 2026 Valedictorian, will attend the University of California, Los Angeles this fall, where he plans to study neuroscience and cognitive neuropsychology.
Throughout high school, Hong distinguished himself through an extraordinary commitment to academic rigor. As a member of Pasadena High School’s renowned Math Academy, he completed advanced collegiate-level coursework, including linear algebra, multivariable calculus, abstract algebra, and discrete mathematics.
His passion for STEM extended beyond the classroom through multiple research experiences with the California Institute of Technology. Hong contributed to biological regeneration studies involving Drosophila tissue research and participated in the Caltech Planet Finder Program, conducting exoplanet analysis and Python-based scientific research.
Outside of academics, Hong has demonstrated leadership and service across a wide range of pursuits. He serves as president of the Chess Club and works as a mathematics instructor at Mathnasium, mentoring students from kindergarten through high school. He has also remained actively involved in competitive ice hockey, balancing athletics with a demanding academic schedule.
Known for his intellectual curiosity, Hong has explored interests ranging from philosophy and psychology to advanced mathematics and scientific inquiry. Whether conducting research, teaching students, or leading his peers, he exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Salutatorian Jayden Cheng
Jayden Cheng, the Class of 2026 Salutatorian, will attend the University of California, Berkeley this fall to study Applied Mathematics, continuing a pursuit of innovation at the intersection of technology, engineering, and creativity.
Graduating with a weighted GPA above 4.8, Cheng earned AP Scholar with Distinction recognition while completing a demanding course load that included Pasadena High School’s prestigious Math Academy. Their academic interests span mathematics, computer science, artificial intelligence, and engineering.
A dedicated student leader, Cheng founded and served as president of the Pasadena High School Game Development Club, co-founded the Origami Club, and served as treasurer of the Robotics Club. Through these organizations, they fostered collaboration, creativity, and technical learning opportunities for fellow students.
Cheng further expanded their knowledge through programs hosted by institutions and technology organizations including Caltech, National Taiwan University, Kneron, and Synopsys. These experiences provided opportunities to develop artificial intelligence diagnostic models, explore semiconductor design, program hardware systems, and study emerging technologies shaping the future.
Beyond academics and leadership, Cheng is a programmer, designer, artist, and aspiring game developer. Through independent projects and original game development, they have combined technical expertise with creative expression, demonstrating a unique ability to bridge analytical thinking and artistic innovation.
A Class Defined by Excellence
Together, Hong and Cheng represent the academic talent, leadership, and ambition that define Pasadena High School’s Class of 2026. While their interests and accomplishments span different disciplines, both students embraced opportunities to challenge themselves, contribute to their school community, and pursue meaningful goals beyond the classroom.
As they begin the next chapter of their educational journeys at UCLA and UC Berkeley, Hong and Cheng leave behind a legacy of achievement that will inspire future generations of Pasadena High School students.
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