Angel Ortiz, who intends to study political science, will decide which of the schools to attend
NEWARK, N.J. – Angel Ortiz, a senior at Newark’s historic Arts High School, knows he is interested in political science. He just needs to decide where he will study it.
That choice might prove to be as hard as choosing a major. Ortiz has achieved a rare academic milestone: acceptance to seven of the nation’s Ivy League universities.
As of this week, Ortiz was accepted to Yale University after having been admitted to Dartmouth College, the University of Pennsylvania, Harvard, Columbia, Brown, and Princeton universities.
“I had a feeling I could get into more than one Ivy, but never did I anticipate getting into every one I applied to,” said Ortiz, a 17-year-old first-generation Latino student from the Ironbound section of Newark. “I’m still processing it. When the notifications came in, I spent two hours walking around the kitchen in shock, while my mom sat there in disbelief.”
“Angel’s acceptance to seven Ivy League institutions is a personal triumph and a powerful symbol of what is possible for young people in Newark,” said Superintendent León. “His story inspires us all. We are incredibly proud of Angel, whose remarkable academic journey is a testament to our schools’ strength, our educators’ dedication, our supportive parents, and our students’ resilience.”
“Angel Ortiz’s achievements are extraordinary, and we join his family, teachers, and peers in celebrating this moment,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “On behalf of the Board of Education, we congratulate him and wish him continued success as he chooses his path forward.”
“Angel embodies the spirit of Arts High School. He’s creative, driven, and full of purpose,” said Principal Regina Sharpe. “He has worked very hard and taken full advantage of every opportunity, both in and out of the classroom, and the result is something truly historic. We are beyond proud of him and can’t wait to see the incredible impact he will make in the world.”
Ortiz is still weighing his options and plans to visit several campuses before making a final decision.
For Ortiz, the acceptances represent more than personal achievement. They’re a tribute to his family’s sacrifices and a symbol of possibility for his community.
“As a first-generation Latino son of immigrants, I know that avenues like college are much harder to access for people like us,” he said. “I hope that now, during my college life, and in my future career, I can be the best representation of my community and loved ones.”
Ortiz plans to major in political science and is considering a minor in American studies. Inspired by a love of world geography, current events, and civic engagement, he envisions a future as a lawyer, government official, or researcher.
Outside the classroom, Ortiz is deeply engaged in student life. He serves as treasurer of the National Arts Honor Society and is a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, and the Peer Leadership program. He also participates in NJLEEP, a program that supports underrepresented students with college readiness and legal education. His proudest NJLEEP moment came in Spring 2024, when he advanced to the Debater of the Year competition for his work in mock Constitutional Law trials.
Born and raised in Newark, Ortiz is a product of Ann Street School and has flourished at Arts High School, where he is a visual arts major.
“Arts High School is so much more than just a school,” Ortiz said. “It’s a place where our Advanced Placement Literature class has developed an unprecedented comradery; where Visual Arts majors like me can freely express ourselves; and where we’ve built bonds that will last long after graduation.”
The son of hardworking parents from Oaxaca, Mexico, Ortiz credits their sacrifice and determination as key to his success. His parents, part-owners of two family-run pizzerias in Belleville and Phillipsburg, have instilled in him the value of perseverance and pride in one’s roots.
Despite his rigorous academic and extracurricular commitments, Ortiz still finds time to enjoy life—whether it’s sketching, reading Toni Morrison, cheering for FC Barcelona, or discovering new music. His playlist spans Taylor Swift, Kendrick Lamar, Paramore, Peso Pluma, and even My Chemical Romance.
As he prepares for graduation and life beyond Newark, Ortiz remains grounded in gratitude and purpose.
“To those who have supported me, I hope I can repay you through my efforts in college and beyond,” he said. “This is an amazing achievement—but there’s still so much more to be done.”
About Newark Public Schools
The Newark Public Schools is the largest school district in New Jersey and dates back to 1676. The District currently enrolls over 40,000 students in 64 schools. After more than two decades of state operation and upon return to local control in 2018, the District has opened ten new schools under Superintendent León’s leadership with an additional portfolio of new options to be announced in the coming months and years. The Newark Board of Education serves as a beacon of educational excellence, dedicated to nurturing the potential of every student. With a commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and fostering a love for learning, the District continues to shape future generations and make a positive impact within the community.
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