Nichole Smith, Montverde Academy
Montverde Academy proudly announces the Valedictorian and Salutatorian of the Class of 2025. Ali Shahbaz Cheema is this year’s Valedictorian, and Joao Pedro (JP) Fortes Ribeiro is this year’s Salutatorian.
In his studies at Montverde Academy, Valedictorian Ali Cheema’s academic interests have centered around experimental sciences, and he is part of the STEM Study Area Concentration (SAC) program in experimental sciences at MVA. This past January, he began conducting research with Lakeview Institute of Clinical Research. As a member of the project, he has been assisting with patient screenings and identifying whether the patients meet the inclusion or exclusion criteria for the study by interpreting data from their medical history questionnaires, physical exams, and laboratory tests.
Ali has taken 20 advanced courses (18 Advanced Placement courses and two dual enrollment courses). He is a member of the varsity lacrosse team, academic team, math club, and Model United Nations team at MVA (EagleMUN). In his free time, he enjoys mountain biking, hiking, and volunteering in Pakistan.
“One of the main people who inspired me was Mr. Beltz who showed me not only the importance of excelling in academics but also of being a well-rounded person,” said Ali.
Ali will attend the University of Florida in the fall and plans to major in physics in preparation for medical school.
Salutatorian JP Fortes Ribeiro’s academic interests at MVA have included math and science. “I am incredibly grateful to MVA for encouraging my early advancement in math courses and Dr. Browdy for developing my love for calculus,” said JP. “Although I will not be pursuing a major in math, calculus has proved extremely useful in several related classes, and I couldn’t be more thankful for the support I received along the way.”
JP has taken 16 advanced courses (14 Advanced Placement Courses and two dual enrollment math courses). Prior to taking the dual enrollment course Computational Linear Algebra, he taught himself how to code using MATLAB software. JP is an Honor Council Representative for the Head of School Student Advisory Committee, Brazilian Club co-founder and President, leader and lead guitarist for the Pep Band, member of the Tennis Academy, and member of the math club. He also shadows and volunteers at Advent Health.
JP will attend Cornell University this fall and plans to major in neuroscience to prepare for his goal of becoming a neurosurgeon.
Congratulations to Ali and JP on their outstanding accomplishments. We wish them the best of luck as they pursue their academic goals and continue to impact the world in a positive way.
