Graduating students at R.J. Reynolds High School in Winston-Salem, North Carolina , will not only have the special experience of walking across the stage to accept their diploma but will also do so under the helm of the school’s first Black valedictorian in its 100-year history. Alecia Washington is the Triad senior who will be bestowed with this high honor. Although historic in and of itself, the graduate reveals she finds it more meaningful that her achievement impacts and inspires younger students who look like her, especially those in underserved communities.