New Orleans high school student becomes valedictorian while homeless

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — A New Orleans student at Walter Cohen High School graduated at the top of his class, but he did it all while being homeless.

Elijah Hogan recently graduated with honors as valedictorian with a GPA of 3.93.

Hogan resides in the Covenant House homeless shelter in New Orleans.

Walter L. Cohen was an experience that I never thought I would be a part of, carrying on the legacy of our school. There were times where I would have a hard time settling in around the school. As time has passed, meeting the teachers and others of Cohen has made it easier for me to settle in and be comfortable. Later on, I became an excellent student that would always ace his work without a second thought. Sometimes, my teachers would say ‘I wish there were more of you in the world.’ Others would say ‘You are a gifted student that would be able to shape your own future.’ Without their faith in me I would have never made it here without their assistance.’

To my fellow graduates, Walter L. Cohen has given us guidance to proceed to our future that we all have strived for. We are here. We have made it. We made it to May. Above all the trials, tests and hardships, what led us here is that we all set a goal to reach. Each individual on this stage has proven themselves to be able to move into the next stage of evolution. Take pride in how far you have come. Have faith in how far you can go. But don’t forget to enjoy your journey.
A motto that helped me get through this year is a catchphrase from Stan Lee, ‘Excelsior,’ which is a Latin word meaning ‘Ever upward.’ As I look at you all, I know someone here will take my place as I move on to a new chapter in my life. It’s your turn to choose and define what success
means to you. Now others will try to define it for you, but yours is the only voice that matters. Wherever you go, go with all your heart.”

Excerpt from Hogan’s valedictorian speech

Collegiate Academies CEO Jerel Bryant said, “Elijah’s accomplishments are worth celebrating. We know that they are a product of his character and the choices he made day after day to pursue his dreams. His success is also a testament to how capable and excellent our Black youth are in New Orleans and across this country. When we give them support and the opportunity to shine, they do. I hope Elijah’s story energizes educators and community leaders to keep pouring into our youth. They deserve the best.”

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