According to The Black Man Voice, many American high schools honor the tradition of senior superlative awards. Superlatives honor students for their greatest achievements and contributions to their school that represent both the institution and student body. The first superlatives were introduced in the early 1900s and transitioned into recognitions via yearbooks and awards in the 1950s. Senior superlatives commemorate seniors who have made a positive impact during their four years of high school. 18-year-old Brooklyn Moore-Champion made history as Ontario Christian High School’s first African American valedictorian, the highest superlative a student can receive.
The valedictorian is academically the highest-ranking student in a single graduating class. Since its inception in 1944, Champion is the first Black valedictorian in the school’s 80-year history. She maintained a 4.6 GPA and the day before her high school graduation, Champion also graduated with honors and two Associate degrees from Chaffey Junior College. Her last name proceeds her well, and along with her parents Ronald and Beverly, their family are advocates for children exceeding expectations, no matter their race or background. In a recent interview with the Los Angeles Sentinel, Champion discussesd her collegiate goals for the upcoming school year, her interests outside of academics, and how it felt to become the first Black senior valedictorian.
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When asked about that moment, Champion shared, “Ontario Christian is a K-12 school and one percent Black. I knew there hadn’t been an African American valedictorian let alone a girl. I was aware of that history, and I wanted that to change. I was qualified to be valedictorian but didn’t know that I was going to receive the award, it felt so good. I’m so glad I was able to encourage younger classmen to strive for that honor. A couple of my friends were motivated after my name was called and they were inspired by my accomplishment. I always remind myself of what matters to me, my goals, and why I started taking my academics seriously. Time management, the support of my parents, and God keeps me focused.”
Champion was also the first Black cheer caption at Ontario Christian, and outside of school and extracurriculars, she enjoys sports and crocheting as a hobby. She plays basketball and is an overall sports fan. She believes having confidence and pushing yourself will grant success. Champion explained, “if you put your mind to it, no matter what other people have to say, you can do it and prove them wrong. Your success will silence the haters.”
Champion was accepted and will attend UCLA in the fall to finish her college studies and will major in Labor Studies. With the use of her Social and Behavioral Science degree along with her Sociology degree from community college, Champion plans to become a family court judge to assist children and families in multiple communities. “I have a passion for kids and helping children in dysfunctional homes. I want to make sure kids are being treated right and put in better homes in safe places.” She will minor in Sociology at UCLA while pursuing Labor Studies which will support her efforts in becoming a judge.
Champion’s grandfather (mother’s father) was named salutatorian in high school, as well as her grandmother (father’s mother) was named valedictorian in high school. Her family lineage of educationally gifted individuals gives hope to the future of academia. Eager students and dedicated changemakers looking to effectively make a difference advances Black excellence and Black history.
Black scholars continue to make incredible progress each year. In 2021, over 2 million Black students were enrolled at a college university. Now in 2024, Champion will join millions of students pursuing higher education with a purpose and commitment to their community. With her many accolades, Champion is an inspiration to so many and aspires to assist families in a meaningful way. She is heavily involved at her home church South Central Los Angeles and continues to make a positive impact.
