Elijah Hogan, 19, defied the odds and achieved academic excellence despite facing housing instability. While residing at Covenant House, a local shelter, Hogan attended Walter L. Cohen High School in New Orleans.
Maintaining an impressive 3.89 grade point average, Hogan’s dedication and perseverance have earned him the title of class valedictorian. His remarkable achievement has not only garnered attention locally but also secured him a scholarship to Xavier University, where he plans to pursue graphic design in the fall.
Hogan’s journey was marked by challenges, including uncertain housing situations and the struggle to fit in at school. However, with the unwavering support of Covenant House and his high school community, he overcame these obstacles.
Reflecting on his experience, Hogan shared, “The hardest challenge I had was fitting in and around other people, trusting others. But you are the bulldozer that could break your limitations. Just don’t let it hold you back or put you down. Keep pushing forward without any doubts in mind.”
Despite the adversities he faced, Hogan’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and resilience. His determination serves as an inspiration to all who encounter challenges on their path to success.
Hogan will attend Xavier University in the fall on a full-ride scholarship majoring in graphic design. He wants to publish his first comic book when he graduates from college. ”It’s been like a childhood dream,” he says. “I envision myself creating comics, spreading it around and seeing the joy in people’s faces.” As for what advice he would give to others who faced similar challenges and situations as he previously did, the valedictorian says: “You are the bulldozer that could break your limitations. That’s my advice. Just don’t let it hold you back or put you down. Keep pushing forward without any doubts in mind.”
