TRENTON, Fla. (WCJB) – Recent Trenton High School graduate Kenadee Langford is on the autism spectrum, and she delivered the valedictorian speech at graduation last week.
“But I see normal as a statistical myth that frequently overlooks the most beautiful, intricate parts of our humanity,” Langford said during her speech.
Langford said she set a goal in eighth grade to become valedictorian.
“This was something I set my heart out to do in the 8th grade, and I really pushed myself to achieve this,” she said.
Langford said at Trenton High School she never felt defined by a diagnosis or limited by a label. She instead felt valued as a peer, leader and friend.
“I try to view it as a unique identity that I can use to positively contribute to my community,” she said.
Langford said she advocates for inclusivity and wants to continue doing so in the future to help young kids who may also be on the autism spectrum.
“I want to help any kid who I feel may have different or unique wiring. I want them to have a mind that I feel like is respected and allow their voice to be heard,” she said.
Langford said she has taken her diagnosis and turned it into fuel to work hard and achieve everything she sets her mind to. She credits her family for always supporting her.
“I not only want to explore the biological data and the physical anatomy of our brains, but I want to connect that to each person’s unique reality. I find that there’s a story hidden behind our brains, so I want to understand the individual, not just the patient, and show empathy for the struggles they’re going through,” she said.
Langford plans to attend Florida Gateway College in the fall, with the hope of attending Santa Fe College in the future. She will be studying neurology and biochemistry.
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