Two Shenandoah Valley High School seniors are being recognized for exceptional academic achievement and perseverance, as Jourdin Karvois and Jasmin Hurtado Olayo have each been awarded the highly selective James Curvey Scholarship to attend Villanova University.
The prestigious scholarship, which provides significant financial assistance, is offered to only a small group of schools in the region, making the dual selection a notable achievement for the district. The announcement adds to Shenandoah Valley’s growing reputation for producing students capable of competing at the highest academic levels.
A Leader in Every Sense: Jourdin Karvois
Karvois, ranked in the top three of the Class of 2026 with a perfect 4.0 GPA, has distinguished herself as one of the school’s most active and accomplished student leaders.
She serves as President of both the Drama Club and AVID Club, Vice President of the National Honor Society and Art Club, Drum Major of the Marching Band, and Captain of the Academic Bowl team.
Her talents were recently on display as a lead performer in the Drama Club’s production of Grease, which drew nearly 1,000 attendees.
Beyond the classroom and stage, Karvois has made a strong impact in the community. Her volunteer work includes participating in Wreaths Across America by laying wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery and assisting with local Heritage Day events.
At Villanova, she plans to study chemical engineering with the goal of making pharmaceutical products more affordable and accessible.
Overcoming Adversity: Jasmin Hurtado Olayo
Hurtado Olayo’s journey to this achievement reflects remarkable determination and resilience.
She is also a recipient of the nationally recognized Horatio Alger Scholarship, awarded to approximately 100 students across the country who have overcome significant adversity while maintaining academic excellence.
Originally from Mexico, Hurtado Olayo entered first grade without knowing any English. Today, she balances her academic responsibilities while working two jobs, at a grocery store and McDonald’s, often working until 9 p.m. six days a week.
Her accomplishments have also taken her beyond the classroom. As a Horatio Alger Scholar, she recently traveled to Washington, D.C., where she participated in mentorship programs, networking opportunities with influential leaders, including Bill Gates, and professional development experiences.
She plans to pursue a career as a pediatric nurse, combining clinical expertise with compassionate care for young patients.
A Decade of Success
The latest selections continue a strong tradition for Shenandoah Valley students, who have received or been offered the Curvey Scholarship in seven of the past 10 years.
According to district records, recent recipients include:
- Class of 2026: Jasmin Hurtado Olayo (Nursing), Jourdin Karvois (Engineering)
- Class of 2025: Angeligue Zamudio (Business), John Boctor (declined to attend Princeton)
- Class of 2023: Offered to Brandon Breznik (declined for Johns Hopkins)
- Class of 2022: Luke Matta; also offered to Phil Boctor (declined for Yale)
- Class of 2021: Jackie Bubnis (Nursing)
- Class of 2020: Kaitlyn Karpovich (Physics)
- Class of 2017: Matt Creasy (now a teacher in the district)
- Class of 2016: Emily (Emmett) McAndrew
District officials say the continued success underscores the strength of Shenandoah Valley’s academic programs and student support systems.
District leaders credit the success of their students to a combination of individual dedication, strong family support, and a faculty committed to pushing students to reach their full potential.
“If you have the opportunity, it’s what you make of it,” another official said. “If it’s there, you can take that opportunity and make it what you want it to be.”
With their selection as Curvey Scholars, Karvois and Hurtado Olayo are not only continuing a proud tradition at Shenandoah Valley, but also setting the stage for bright futures ahead.
