Notable Salutatorians and Valedictorians.

Here are some of the Notable Salutatorians and Valedictorians from High Schools and Colleges. This list highlights numerous successful professionals, such as First Lady Michelle Obama, Jimmy Carter, Albert Einstein, Carrie Underwood and Hillary Rodham Clinton. The top graduate with higher grades is referred to as Valedictorian, whereas the honor of becoming a Salutatorian requires the highest overall GPA as well as the mastery on effective public speaking, excellent language skills and strength in extracurricular activities. Princeton University chooses a "Latin Salutatorian" based on the ability to write and deliver a speech to the audience in that language. The title "Salutatorian" comes from the salutatorian's traditional role as the first speaker at the graduation ceremony, delivering the salutatory speech.The Valedictorian usually delivers the "valedictory" address (i.e. bidding farewell and good bye) while the Salutatorian delivers the "salutatory" address (i.e. expressing welcome to the new world) to fellow students, teachers and families in the audience.