With the class of 2023 from Southern Door moving their tassels from the right to the left on Sunday, it marked yet another local school honoring their seniors during graduation . 

For the first time in years, Southern Door celebrated graduation with two valedictorians, as both candidates were more than qualified to split the honor for the graduating class. Laura Zittlow and Amanda Austin were chosen as the co-valedictorians this year at Southern Door, something both students were honored to have the ability to share. Austin went on record saying she was glad to share it with her friend Laura, and that it worked out well for both of them, with how the competition was at the top. On the other hand, Zittlow mentioned how the two friends pushed each other in their classes and everything they did together. 

Becoming a valedictorian is no easy task however, as just not academics are factored into the decision of nominating the top student. From academics to extracurricular activities, the process finds the top student in the school, or in this case the top two students. Zittlow and Austin both gave advice to younger students who are aspiring to be nominated for their classes top spot. 

Austin, who finished with a 4.0 GPA and a 36 on her ACT, will be continuing her studies at Michigan Technological University majoring in Electrical Engineering and minoring in Astrophysics. Zittlow, who also finished with a 4.0, will be attending Ripon College and double majoring in Biology and Mathematics.