Waynesburg University named Abigail Speer of Bridgeville, Pennsylvania, a valedictorian of the Class of 2026.
Speer graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in early childhood and special education. She was one of two valedictorians, alongside Emily Barker, a criminal justice administration major.
Throughout her time at Waynesburg, Speer demonstrated academic excellence while dedicating herself to service, experiential learning and professional development. A four-year Bonner Scholar, she served at Fresh Start Café and participated in the University’s Project Grow service trip to the Dominican Republic.
Speer completed her student teaching in the Canon-McMillan School District, interned at Hope Learning Center School of Autism and participated in a two-week international internship at a local school in Cape Town, South Africa.
In recognition of her academic achievements, Speer received the Highest GPA Teacher Award during the Department of Education’s recent Celebration of Teaching.
Following graduation, Speer plans to relocate to Syracuse, New York, where she has accepted a position with Little Lukes Preschool and Childcare Center. In her new role, she will teach students with special needs, ages 3 to 5. Her experiences at Waynesburg prepared her to begin her career equipped with both practical classroom experience and a commitment to serving students with diverse learning needs.
Speer credited several individuals for their encouragement and support throughout her academic journey, including Adrienne Tharp, assistant dean of student development; Melissa Wood, certification officer and field placement coordinator; and her family.
Through academic achievement, hands-on learning opportunities and service-focused experiences both locally and abroad, Speer exemplified Waynesburg University’s mission of preparing students to make a meaningful difference in their communities and professions.
About Waynesburg U.
Consistently ranked a best value school, Waynesburg University’s Strategy for the 21st Century affirms its commitment to developing an entrepreneurial mindset and ethical leadership skills for all students. Rooted in its mission of faith, learning and service, the private, Christian university is located on a traditional campus in the hills of southwestern Pennsylvania.
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