Determined, resilient and motivated: These are the words that define Janae Dominguez.
The oldest of five children and the Questa High School class of 2026 valedictorian, Dominguez has more than academic accolades to her credit. The daughter of Kristi Padilla and stepfather Xavier Rascon, Dominguez is preparing for her next chapter this fall at the University of New Mexico’s main campus in Albuquerque.
As the eldest sibling to Maliyah, Mateo, Zaedrian and Jordin, Dominguez has been her siblings’ leader who all turn to her for guidance and help with their homework.
“I’ve always liked to challenge myself,” Dominguez said. “Once I set my mind to something, I am determined to get it done.”
That determination earned her the rank of valedictorian in March. A member of the National Honor Society since seventh grade, she has balanced her 4.0-scale academic ambitions with a busy athletic schedule in cheer, volleyball, and track and field. Adding to her versatile extracurricular profile, she is also a member of the school’s Mariachi group, showcasing her dedication to both traditional culture and the arts.
“It’s always been important for me to stay busy,” she said. “It keeps my mind preoccupied and keeps me on task.”
Dominguez admits she grew up faster than most, largely due to a family crisis when she was only 6 years old. Her brother Mateo, then 2, accidentally ingested a controlled substance. Though doctors initially feared he would not survive, Mateo is now 14-years-old. Dominguez said the occurrence “stirred something inside” her, triggering a desire to help her family and sparking a deep-seated interest in the justice system.
“I eventually want to go into law and become a criminal prosecutor,” Dominguez said with authority, noting that her brother’s experience spiked her interest in the legal field.
Her commitment to service extends beyond her home. Through the National Honor Society and cheerleading, she has volunteered for Earth Day cleanups and at the local food pantry. She also participates in community health efforts, such as the school blood drive, and promotes school spirit by decorating for athletic events and volunteering during the annual field day.
During the winter, Dominguez works guest services at Red River Ski Valley, a position she has held for nearly three years. “I really liked my job at the ski valley and also enjoy skiing when I have time,” she said.
In May, Dominguez will graduate high school having already earned an associate degree through two years of dual-credit classes offered through UNM-Taos. As she prepares to move into the UNM dorms in Albuquerque, she carries with her a love for cooking—a skill she learned from her mother.
When discussing role models, without hesitation Dominguez credits her mother’s resilience as her primary fuel. “My mom is one of the hardest-working people I know,” she said. “Watching her overcome challenges she has faced has motivated me to work hard and stay committed to my goals.”
She also finds inspiration in her maternal grandmother, Vikki Sandoval, whom she fondly calls “Gramita.”
“My Gramita is a great role model,” Dominguez said. “She has always pushed me to be the best that I can be. She is always telling me how proud she is of me.”
As she looks toward college and her path to a degree in political science, Dominguez offered a final piece of advice for her younger classmates: “Stay positive and take advantage of opportunities that are in front of you. Learn from your failure as well as your success, because failures are just as important as successes. Also, stay involved with activities and volunteer in your community. Those new experiences will help you build confidence and skills.”
