Lesley Chee and David Chen (Photos – PUSD)
Blair High School’s Class of 2026 celebrates two graduates whose academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to service have distinguished them as this year’s valedictorian and salutatorian.
By Rena Kurlander
Lesley Chee
Lesley Chee is the valedictorian of Blair High School’s Class of 2026. An International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme student, she graduates having earned more than 60 college credits through dual enrollment while excelling in one of the school’s most rigorous academic programs.
Beyond the classroom, Chee has been a dedicated student leader and advocate. She served as a student representative on the Pasadena Unified School District Student Assembly and as a member of the district’s Student Think Tank, where she worked to elevate student voices and contribute to districtwide initiatives. Her leadership also extends to organizing youth leadership conferences, demonstrating her commitment to empowering fellow students and fostering community engagement.
Chee has balanced her academic achievements with a wide range of extracurricular pursuits, including competing nationally in curling and maintaining a part-time job throughout high school. This fall, she will attend UCLA, where she plans to continue pursuing leadership, public service, and expanding educational opportunities for others.
David Chen
David Chen is the salutatorian of Blair High School’s Class of 2026. An International Baccalaureate Diploma Candidate and member of Blair’s Health Careers Academy, Chen has distinguished himself through academic excellence and a strong commitment to preparing for a career in healthcare.
Throughout high school, Chen challenged himself by earning 66 college credits through Pasadena City College while also receiving a Certificate of Achievement in Entrepreneurship. In addition, he became a certified Emergency Medical Responder, further demonstrating his dedication to serving others and pursuing hands-on healthcare experience.
Chen has been actively involved in HOSA and completed an internship at Huntington Medical Research Institute, where he gained valuable exposure to medical research and learned alongside professionals in the field. After graduation, he will attend Loyola Marymount University to continue his studies in healthcare. This summer, he plans to complete his Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training in Simi Valley as he continues preparing for a future in medicine.
A Class Defined by Excellence
Lesley Chee and David Chen have distinguished themselves through outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and a shared commitment to serving others. Their accomplishments reflect not only personal determination but also the opportunities available to students who embrace challenge, collaboration, and lifelong learning.
Their achievements reflect the ambition, resilience, and service-minded spirit of Blair High School’s Class of 2026. As they begin the next chapter of their education, both graduates leave behind a legacy of excellence that will inspire future Vikings.
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