Meet Pasadena High Valedictorian Ritaj Abdulquani

INSIDE OUR SCHOOLS

Ritaj Abdulquani on Graduation Day at the Rose Bowl (Photo – PUSD)

Ritaj Abdulquani, already living a life of service, has been heavily involved in her school, local city, and religious community.

By Erica Linares

Ritaj is a member of The National Honor Society, The National English Honor Society, an AP Scholar with Distinction, and 2021 Valedictorian at Pasadena High School. She earned the National Charity League Scholarship, is a Rose Scholar, a Pasadena/Altadena Links Scholar, and a POSSE Scholar earning a four-year, full tuition, leadership scholarship.

Through an internship with United Muslims Moving Ahead, she volunteered in coordinating various humanitarian events and helped to oversee the Black Visions of Wellness Department (BVOW), as well as volunteering her time at local homeless shelters and food banks. She volunteers through GenUp Pasadena advocating for social justice, and education reform; as well as with Future Voters of Pasadena phone banking and encouraging fellow students to vote. She also worked as a Publishers Assistant for Waltham Press.

Through her Islamic community, Ritaj taught Muslim Child Quran Studies, and provided tutoring and mentoring for Syrian Refugee children. At Pasadena High School, she participated in the Ocean Club, Engineering Club, WeCODE Club,  Junior Varsity Tennis and founded the Health Club.

Pasadena High School is very proud of their 2021 Valedictorian, Ritaj Abdulquani. We know she will make notable contributions to our society.

Erica Linares is a school counselor at Pasadena High School and Pasadena Adult School.

Proud of Your Valedictorian?

> We ask high schools across the area to send a photo of their valedictorian and a little bit about themselves to celebrate their achievement as this senior year comes to a close.