When looking back on her four years at Boothbay Region High School, class of 2016 valedictorian Gretchen Elder recalled her many accomplishments but also the challenges.

“Last year I took an AP (advanced placement) history class which was the most difficult thing I've had to do,” she said. “We did the entire span of American history very quickly. A lot of times I wanted to give up but I kept going and ended up having a lot of fun.”

Despite a natural interest in traditional studies, she was also heavily involved in the drama program — a true passion, she said. This spring she faced the daunting task of learning her lines for the cult hit musical comedy “Xanadu,” all while rollerskating with an Australian accent.

“It was a challenge for sure,” she said.

In addition, she was instrumental in re-starting a Boothbay chapter of the Interact Club, an extension of Rotary International, a group whose goal is to promote international understanding.

The daughter of Rick and Monica Elder of Edgecomb, Gretchen is the younger sister of Hannah Elder, the 2013 BRHS valedictorian. In fact, the academic excellence runs deep in the family — her mother was also the valedictorian of her class.

“My family has been a really great support system. They've been pushing me to be the very best,” she said.

On the faculty side, Gretchen singled out BRHS English and history instructor Carol McKenna as a person who has been a positive influence in her studies and achievements.

In the fall, Gretchen will study information design and corporate communications at Bentley University in Waltham, Massachusetts.

“Which just boils down to communications, I want to be a public relations specialist,” said Elder.

After weighing numerous college choices, she chose Bentley because of its proximity to Boston and the many urban opportunities the city provides.

“What I like about Bentley is that it's a very community-orientated campus and they help you figure out exactly what you want to do with your career,” she said. “Hopefully it's a degree that will pay off.”

For the underclassmen, Gretchen advised taking advantage of the many opportunities available in the high school and community, not just sports.

“What I liked about this high school is the opportunity to push yourself to succeed,” said Elder. “It rewards you for hard work. Also the community on campus, people coming together over sporting events and homecoming. You get to know everyone, it's nice.”