Resolution 24-13: VALEDICTORY VICTORY
| Number | 24-13 |
| Description | Each college within UTA shall have the autonomy to select their own valedictorian, utilizing a process based on applications or recommendations |
| Authored by |
Areeb Khan |
| Sponsored by |
Aminur Nafio |
| Date Submitted | Friday, August 30, 2024 |
| Date Considered | Monday, January 1, 0001 |
| Committee | Student Affairs |
| Result | n/a |
| Remarks | |
| Whereas | although not universally common, many colleges and universities in the United States, including Howard University, Washington University, and the University of Southern California, have established the tradition of recognizing a valedictorian—the highest-achieving student in the school. These valedictorians are prominently featured during their graduation ceremonies and are often invited to deliver a commencement speech alongside other distinguished speakers; and |
| Whereas | the criteria for selecting a valedictorian may encompass a high Grade Point Average (GPA), significant campus involvement, volunteer work, and exceptional achievements within their field of study; and |
| Whereas | graduation ceremonies are attended by current students, prospective students, and their families, who come to support their loved ones. Hearing the inspiring journey of a successful peer can serve to motivate and encourage these attendees in their own academic and personal pursuits; and |
| Whereas | establishing a valedictorian position would incentivize current students to strive for this honor, thereby fostering a more serious commitment to their academic endeavors and increased participation in campus activities; and |
| Whereas | the introduction of such a position at UTA could contribute to altering the perception of UTA as solely a commuter school, thereby enhancing the overall student experience; and |
| Be It Further Resolved That | UTA should incorporate a segment within its graduation ceremonies to honor a selected student representative, conferring upon them the title of valedictorian or a similarly distinguished designation and the selected student shall be granted the opportunity to address their peers during the graduation ceremony, offering reflections on their journey at UTA. |
| Be It Further Resolved That | each college within UTA shall have the autonomy to select their own valedictorian, utilizing a process based on applications or recommendations; and |