This year’s Class of 2016 valedictorian, Dalton Sherman, is a exceptional individual in and outside of the classroom. Dalton and his 9 classmates are members of BOMLA’s second graduating class that boasts 100 percent matriculation into 4-year colleges and universities. Before Dalton entered the doors of Barack Obama, he already had the determination to inspire others. In 5th grade, he was an inspiring keynote speaker that captivated 20,000 Dallas ISD teachers to believe in their students, a moment that was covered by local TV news and went viral. As a result, he has had the opportunity to meet influential icons such as Dr. Maya Angelou, Ellen DeGeneres, and President Barack Obama. From there, his career as a youth motivational speaker soared. He has grown into a mature young man and plans to use his gift for “positive action, inspiration, and motivation”.

In August, this new BOMLA Man will head to California on a full scholarship to attend Pomona College, one of the top five liberal arts colleges in the country.

Click here to watch NBC News feature his graduation from BOMLA.