WPHS senior Winemi Valdez Sanchez honored with Overcoming the Odds Award
![Young woman in blue dress sits among certificates]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1779287962/whiteplainspublicschoolsorg/d0ub5fjph9vxd6ib75oo/WisValdezSanchez-7.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1779287962/whiteplainspublicschoolsorg/d0ub5fjph9vxd6ib75oo/WisValdezSanchez-7.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1779287962/whiteplainspublicschoolsorg/d0ub5fjph9vxd6ib75oo/WisValdezSanchez-7.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1779287962/whiteplainspublicschoolsorg/d0ub5fjph9vxd6ib75oo/WisValdezSanchez-7.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1779287962/whiteplainspublicschoolsorg/d0ub5fjph9vxd6ib75oo/WisValdezSanchez-7.png","width":1331}])
White Plains High School senior Winemi “Wis” Valdez Sanchez has earned recognition for a journey defined by perseverance, courage and an unwavering commitment to education.
Wis was named a 2026 Overcoming the Odds Honoree by Student Advocacy Inc., a prestigious recognition celebrating students who have demonstrated resilience and determination while overcoming significant personal challenges.
The annual Overcoming the Odds Awards Celebration honors extraordinary students from across the region whose life experiences have strengthened their commitment to education and positive contributions to their communities.
The celebration, themed “Paving Pathways to Success,” took place Tuesday, May 19, at Abigail Kirsch at Tappan Hill Mansion in Tarrytown.
After arriving in the United States from the Dominican Republic during high school, Wis faced the daunting task of adapting to a new language, culture and school system. Rather than allowing those obstacles to define her, she approached each day with determination, positivity and a willingness to grow.
“Through perseverance, focus and a strong work ethic, Wis embraced a growth mindset,” WPHS Assistant Principal Sara Hall said. “She came to school each day prepared to learn, grow, build positive relationships and face challenges with hope and positivity.”
Despite significant personal obstacles, Wis continued to excel academically while holding herself to high standards. She overcame language barriers, learned to advocate for herself and remained focused on her long-term goals with discipline and purpose.
“These qualities truly embody the spirit of the Overcoming the Odds Award,” said Ms. Hall, who was among the people who accompanied Wis to the event, including school counselor Yolainny Minaya. “Wis has made education a priority even in the face of adversity.”
This fall, Wis plans to attend Mercy University, where she intends to pursue a career in psychiatric nursing — a path inspired by her desire to help others facing challenges of their own.
Her journey has become a source of inspiration throughout the school community and a powerful example of how resilience and a supportive environment can help students thrive.
