Fort Valley State University has two 2015 Co-Valedictorians

“When I was younger I had a slow start,” recalls Ashley. “I was in special classes, because I didn’t read at the same level as everyone else.  I just wasn’t able to keep up with the same track of other students in my class.  I knew then I would have to work very hard just to be on the same playing field as other people.”

Now Ashley can boast of surpassing most of FVSU students.  She went to school on a full academic scholarship and maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout her college career.  She’s sharing the title with Samantha, who is a
34-year-old non-traditional student.

“I studied hard, I had a lot of support from friends and family,” explains the mother of two. “My teachers were very encouraged and supportive as well.”

Samantha admits it wasn’t always easy balancing family and school.  And, she didn’t attend the university on a scholarship.

“Sometimes, somethings did fail,” adds Samantha. “I would forget to do something for my children, or I would have to work long nights or early mornings to get my work done.”

The valedictorians will give graduation speeches during their commencement ceremony.  Ashley is going to remind the students about school pride.  Samantha says she is going to talk about setting goals.

After graduation, Ashley will be a summer intern at Air Energy.

“After that I start Georgia Tech in the fall to get my electrical engineering degree in two years,” comments Ashley.

Ashley will continue her education on a full scholarship.  Samantha is going to grad school.

“I want to work up to my PHD and I want to become a professor of English,” Samantha tells 41NBC.

The valedictorians have proven they are ready to become part of a viable workforce and are equipped to make a difference in the world.

Fort Valley State University’s graduation will be held Saturday morning at 9:30.  It will take place in the Health and Physical Education Complex.

Ashley is graduating with a Bachelors in Mathematics.  Samantha is graduating with a degree in English.