Valedictorian Zaria Piper earns full scholarships to University of Texas at Austin

The Waxahachie High School graduation ceremony on May 26, 2025, celebrated the achievements of its students, with a special focus on valedictorian Zaria Piper. Her story, marked by resilience and familial support, resonated deeply with attendees, highlighting the importance of community in educational success.

Zaria Piper, the daughter of Chantelle Piper and granddaughter of Granny Mae Piper, has emerged as a role model for her peers. Alongside her twin sister, Zakiya, both have excelled academically, becoming first-generation college students with full scholarships to ten universities. Their journey, characterized by mutual encouragement rather than competition, showcases the power of sibling support in achieving personal goals.

Zaria's accomplishments extend beyond academics; she is recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction by the College Board, reflecting her high performance in advanced placement courses. Additionally, she has received several awards, including the AP Rural and Small Towns Recognition Award and the First Generation Scholar Award, which underscore her academic excellence and the challenges she has overcome.

The ceremony also highlighted the significance of family values in Zaria's life, with a nod to the supportive environment created by her family. As she prepares to attend the University of Texas at Austin on prestigious scholarships, including the Gates Millennium Scholarship and the Terry Foundation Scholarship, Zaria stands as a testament to the impact of determination and community support on educational achievement.

The graduation not only celebrated individual accomplishments but also emphasized the collective strength found in family and friendship, inspiring future generations of students in Waxahachie.