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Identical Twins Share Valedictorian Honors at Rollins College

Prior to commencement, Kate ’26 and Emma ’26 Salerno, twin valedictorians from Rollins College, visited FOX 35 Good Day Orlando for an in-studio interview about their accomplishments and what it's like to share a major, honors, and more.

By Jo Marie Hebeler

May 12, 2026

The twins reflected on their shared academic journey, explaining how their close relationship helped them excel both inside and outside the classroom. The sisters said they spend much of their time together at Rollins, sharing the same sorority, participating in many of the same campus organizations, and maintaining the same friend group. As students with the same major, they were also able to take several classes together, collaborate on group projects, and support one another through demanding coursework.

The interviewer noted that the sisters not only earned impressive academic records, but also graduated with identical GPAs. The students described their relationship as having a “built-in study buddy,” saying they constantly encouraged each other to stay motivated and strive for success. They explained that having someone with similar goals and experiences helped them remain focused throughout their college careers.

The sisters also discussed commencement, where seven students were named valedictorians. Although another valedictorian was selected to deliver the graduation speech, all seven students wrote speeches that will be archived by the college. When asked what advice they would offer students and parents, the sisters emphasized the importance of studying hard, setting clear goals, and staying focused on the bigger picture, even during difficult moments. They said maintaining long-term motivation was key to their success at Rollins College.


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