Photo taken by: Blue Devil Photography.
Valendictorian Justin Woychowski and Salutatorian Bedirhan Ozmen flank WHHS Pricipal Robert Bohan.
By Robert Forleo
Special to the Voice
West Haven High School (WHHS) announced its 2025 Valedictorian, Justin Woychowski, and Salutatorian, Bedirhan Ozmen. Both students have not only excelled academically but have also made significant contributions to their school community, setting an inspiring example for their peers.
Woychowski, set to attend the University of Maine in Orono to study Survey Engineering Technology, has garnered praise from his teachers for his intellectual capabilities.
“I have had very few students that are this intellectually gifted,” remarked Mrs. Emily Grosshuesch, a social studies teacher who has taught both students. “He has turned into a mature young man who I know will always be interested in learning about the world around him.”
When asked about his involvement in extracurricular activities, Woychowski proudly listed his roles:
“I was a Drum Major in the Marching Band, the Production Stage Manager for the Theater Workshop, and the captain of the SeaPerch Underwater ROV Team, where we became state champions twice,” he said.
Reflecting on his support system, he shared, “My mom, who is the school librarian, has been my biggest supporter. My dad stays up to ask me about the shows and rehearsals every night, and I owe a lot to my friends, Sam Alquijay and Lia Herasme Gonzalez.”
Bedirhan Ozmen, the Salutatorian, will be attending Yale University to major in Ethics, Politics, and Economics with a Certificate in Education.
“He has dealt with a lot of obstacles in his life but has not let them pull him down. The ambition Bedirhan has to succeed is remarkable,” noted Mrs. Grosshuesch.
When discussing his support system, Bedirhan stated, “My dad has always been my biggest motivator, pushing me to succeed no matter what. I am incredibly grateful for my teachers, especially Ms. Alajjan, who guided me academically and personally.”
He reminisced about his experience at WHHS.
“Some of my most meaningful memories are the mornings spent with my friends visiting Ms. Alajjan during homeroom. Those small moments of laughter and support made a bigger difference than I realized,” he said.
Both students shared their most memorable experiences at WHHS. Justin highlighted the excitement of directing “Mr. Westie 2025.”
“Using everything I learned in stage management, I directed my favorite show. A crowd of 500 made the experience electric!” he said.
In contrast, Bedirhan reflected on the significance of building relationships, stating, “Those mornings with my friends taught me the value of support and friendship.”
When asked about the challenges they faced during high school, Justin noted, “Juggling shows and other activities was difficult, especially sophomore year during AP exams. Living up to my mom’s legacy as a top student was a challenge, but it pushed me to excel.”
Bedirhan shared a similar sentiment, saying, “Coming from a low-income background and being raised by a single father presented many challenges. Navigating high school without a mother figure made me stronger and more appreciative of my support system.”
As they prepare to graduate, both students offer advice to future WHHS students. Justin encourages, “Find at least one thing you enjoy outside of academics. For me, it was band, which opened many doors.” Bedirhan adds, “Start thinking about your future early, but don’t obsess. It’s okay to change paths and figure things out as you go.”
With GPAs of 5.240 and 5.008 respectively, their academic achievements are only a part of their stories. As they step into the future, the WHHS community eagerly anticipates the remarkable paths these two students will carve out.
“One day, we will all say we knew these incredible individuals,” Mrs. Grosshuesch said.