Valedictorian is a title given to the top graduate of the entire graduating class of an educational institution. The title is typically conferred based upon grades and overall GPA, but extracurricular activities and other factors may be considered. The valedictorian is traditionally the last speaker at the graduation ceremony.
Valedictorians are subject to school policies, which vary by school. In May 2005, a high school senior in Houston, Texas was denied the honor of valedictorian because of absences due to anorexia. However, the stuident later accepted an honorary title.
