Brendan Alson and Marisa Rush were standouts in both athletics and academics during their time at Sierra High.

Both enjoyed their fair share of crowning achievements in the past four years.

Perhaps their greatest honor yet was earning valedictorian and salutatorian, the highest academic awards for the Class of 2023.

That announcement was made at last month’s Lobo Gold Rally by Principal Steve Clark.

“I was surprised,” said Rush, who took a glance in the direction of her mother (Sierra High math teacher Amanda Rush) upon learning that she was salutatorian.

Alson earned valedictorian thanks to his 4.36 GPA. He’s the son of Henry Alson and Myhoa Vuong.

He’ll be going to UC Irvine in the fall to study Chemical Engineering.

Brendan Alson is wrapping up his track and field career for the Timberwolves, competing as a member of the 4 by 800 relay team in the Sac-Joaquin Section Division III meet.

He ran cross country and was a member of the California Scholastic Federation, National Honor Society, and a tutor for Give Every Child A Chance.

Alson helped out at the local food bank as did Rush, who is UC Berkeley-bound.

She’s looking to major in Chemistry at Cal with plans of enlisting of the US Air Force afterwards.

Marisa Rush is the daughter of Amanda and Jeff Rush. She had a 4.28 GPA.

She’s been a member of the SHS water polo program since its inception and wrestled at 131 pounds. Rush also participated on the swim team and was a member of a club team.

She served as president of the National Honor Society as well being a member of CSF, Band, and was selected to San Joaquin County Honors Orchestra.

Rush, in addition, was involved with community projects. She helped out at the East Union Cemetery and served as math tutor.

Rush and Alson are looking forwards to addressing their classmates at the upcoming graduation ceremony at Daniel Teicheira Memorial Stadium scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday, May 25.