Elsie Corbett – 2023 BHS Valedictorian

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Biology and Environmental Science
Women’s Cross Country
Women’s Track and Field

Congratulations to Elsie Corbett, daughter of Rebekkah and Daniel Corbett of Stephentown, the 2023 Valedictorian of Berlin High School.

Elsie is graduating with an Advanced Regents Diploma with honors and will attend Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) this fall.

As a Mountaineer, Elsie is enrolled in the most rigorous academic schedules that Berlin offers, taking several Advanced Placement courses. These included an accelerated track in Math and Science since eighth grade and honors English and Social Studies since ninth grade.

During her senior year, Elsie split her time between BHS and the University at Albany’s Health Sciences campus as part of the New Visions Scientific Research and World Health program. At New Visions, Elsie interacted with research scientists and public health practitioners.

Beyond her studies, Elsie is an outstanding leader in her school community. She is a key member of Berlin’s academic clubs, such as Masterminds, Science Olympiad and Envirothon. Elsie also serves as treasurer of her class, is a member of the National Honor Society, and has participated in the Olympics of the Visual Arts.

“It will be very bittersweet to see Elsie graduate,” said Mr. Ellis, Berlin High School math teacher and student council advisor, who has known Elsie since eighth grade. 

“Between the years of treasurer duties, MasterMind competitions, and leadership in student council, she has always been an integral part of every club she has been involved in.” 

Elsie competes for Berlin as an exceptional athlete on the varsity cross country and track and field teams. Her drive, focus, and the support of her teammates have propelled her to success in her athletic career. She will be taking those qualities to her future teams at RPI, where she will be competing for the cross country and track teams.

“Elsie’s dedication, positive attitude, and strong work ethic will be sorely missed,” said Mr. Ellis.

During the winter months Elsie could be found on Jiminy Peak, where she has been a ski team member since sixth grade. During the summers Elsie has worked as a camp counselor at the local Stephentown Summer Camp.

Elsie’s Berlin High School Counselor, Mrs. Rachel Harrison, has always been impressed by her ability to balance academics and extracurricular activities.

“Elsie’s skills with time management and organization, combined with great communication, have made her a strong collaborator with others,” said Mrs. Harrison. “And she has the self-initiative to always go above and beyond the basic requirements.”

At RPI Elsie will pursue a degree in Biology and Environmental Science. She is motivated by the idea that research she could do in the future would help make a significant contribution to improving the environment.