Dedication and Drive Earns Bryan Davis Honor as Valedictorian

Whether it’s solving a complex theoretical concept in the classroom, finding a way to continue his education after school or giving it his all on the playing field, Bryan Davis has the tools it takes to succeed.

And whatever he chooses to do after graduation, Southington Principal Martin Semmel and Technology teacher Justin Mirante said they expect Davis to excel and make a positive difference in the world. After all, the credentials that Davis has put together in his high school career is no small feat.

“His inquisitiveness is the driving force behind his success,” said Mirante, who Davis chose as his most inspirational teacher. “He has the inherit ability to make connections from all his academic studies and apply those to real world problems.”

Meet the valedictorian of the class of 2013, the top student out of 471 graduates.

Davis, a lifelong Southington resident, is the definition of a well-rounded student. He not only achieved success in the classroom, but was the school’s male scholar-athlete of the year as a member of the lacrosse team, was active in extracurricular organizations including the Math Team, the Key Club and National Honor Society.

Outside of school, he earned his Eagle Scout honor as a member of Boy Scouts of America and earned a black belt in karate.

“Especially during lacrosse season, it’s not easy with a schedule like that. You just have to accept you will have almost no free time and set your priorities straight,” Davis said.

The only child of Kenneth and Katherine Davis, Bryan is looking to follow in his father’s footsteps as he prepares to attend UConn in the fall and will major in electrical engineering. He said he would like to get into some form of telecommunications but said he is entering college with an open mind and will find a career that suits him best.

“Project Lead the Way provided so much exposure to different types of engineers. It was hands on and helped me narrow down my choices some already,” he said.

Semmel said he got to know Davis during his junior year when he was selected as the district’s recipient of the Governor’s Award. He said what impressed him most was that Davis had no desire to go home and just study, but remained constantly involved in a variety of afterschool activities.

“He is very intelligent and motivated, but what truly impressed me was how involved he wanted to be in our school community,” Semmel said. “He is someone who will go on to achieve many things in life and make a positive impact, no matter where he ends up.”

When asked what he looks forward to most about college, Davis smiled and simply said “being within walking distance of food.”

But Davis did have some advice for freshman entering Southington High School in the fall.

“It’s important to work hard and set high goals, but you can’t forget to have fun,” he said.

Davis will join his classmates on June 21 during the Class of 2013 commencement.

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