For PHS Class of 2026 valedictorian Sophia Campbell and salutatorian Joshua Layman, the past four years have been about perseverance, pushing themselves and figuring out where they want to head next
Sophia Campbell, 2026 Powhatan High School Valedictorian
GPA: 4.667
Parents/siblings: Tim and Allyson Campbell, Hayden Campbell (brother), Ellie Campbell (sister), and Nolan Campbell (brother)
Campbell
On earning the title of class valedictorian:
“Being named valedictorian is not just about my grades, but my dedication, perseverance, and the growth I’ve experienced through all four years of high school. It shows how consistency will truly pay off overtime.”
Favorite subject:
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“My favorite subject is chemistry because it combines problem-solving and real-life experimentation to discover complex processes at a molecular level.”
Favorite quote;
“This is for everybody going through tough times. Believe me, been there, done that. But every day above ground is a great day, remember that.”
-- Pitbull
One challenge faced during high school:
“Moving to a whole new county freshmen year was a big challenge as I had to start fresh in a community where everyone already knew each other. I found my own community by joining the dance team and getting to dance with the best team imaginable for all four years.”
Leadership roles and achievements:
“I was captain of the high school dance team, President of Mu Alpha Theta, vice president of NTHS and SNHS, secretary of communications for FBLA, and secretary of activities for NEHS.”
Other notable achievements:
“Getting to attend FBLA states with one of my best friends, Addison Delaney, after winning 1st place at regionals; giving back to my community by volunteering at a local hospital’s mother infant unit; and becoming an entrepreneur with a baking business alongside one of my best friends, Sophia Crum.”
Future plans:
“I plan on majoring in Biochemistry and Psychology at the University of Virginia as an Echols Scholar. I then plan on becoming a biomedical scientist to make major medical advancements that will extend human lives.”
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Joshua Layman, 2026 Powhatan High School Salutatorian
GPA: 4.61111
Parents/siblings: Julie and James Layman, brothers Matthew and Kody Layman
Layman
On earning the title of class salutatorian:
“Being named salutatorian provided me the opportunity to share my beliefs and praise the Lord for giving me this great honor at graduation in front of my peers and community.”
Favorite subject in school:
“Mathematics, because I just love the subject, and both my parents were math teachers, so math just runs in the family.”
Personal motto or quote:
“Daniel 3:25: Then why do I see four men walking around in the fire?’ he asked. ‘They are not tied up, and they show no sign of being hurt—and the fourth one looks like an angel.’”
One challenge faced during high school:
“Balancing my academic, social, spiritual and physical life.”
Leadership roles and achievements:
“Holding the record for third most passing yards in a game at Powhatan, beating James River in my first start at quarterback in our Homecoming game, and being elected Chaplain of Puller City at the 82nd Annual American Legion Boys State.”
Future plans:
“Attend Virginia Tech to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering in the hopes of eventually becoming a roller coaster engineer.”
