<p>Just because all systems of judging valedictorian aren't fair doesn't mean that there is a problem with the val himself. At the very least, the val of most schools has demonstrated the ability to succeed at a high level - which suggests both work ethic and intelligence, both admirable qualities. Some vals have gamed the system. Some cheated. Some are just really, really hard workers (combined with at least a high level of intelligence). And yes, some are truly brilliant all-around students. It just isn't fair to generalize - as other posters have said, how many people at any level of a class go on to do great things for the world? Exceptional people are by definition very, very rare. </p>
<p>And I say this as a non-val (rank 12) from a class in which the val was someone who had clawed her way to the top by dishonest methods.</p>