This week Utica University announced its 2026 co-valedictorians, Makalya Arnold and Tess Barrett. The valedictorians will be honored at commencement on May 3, as they performed the highest academically out of their class with a 4.0 GPA each.
Arnold is a health studies major and psychology minor who will now be entering Utica’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Barrett is a biology major with a pre-med focus. Both students are pursuing challenging academic paths and still acing their courses.
Although Arnold will continue her education in the DPT program for the next two years, she reflected on her time here defining it by both academic and personal growth. She feels that she has gained skills from her program that extend beyond the classroom, giving her valuable experiences before she enters into her career. As a student-athlete on the field hockey team, Arnold learned about her strengths, resilience, and ability to adapt while in her undergraduate years.
“I am especially motivated by the knowledge that my education will allow me to make a meaningful impact on others’ lives,” Arnold said. “Even when academics become challenging, that purpose continues to drive me forward as I work toward becoming a well-rounded and effective professional.”
Arnold said being co-valedictorian validated all of the commitment that she poured into her education over the last four years. For her, it reaffirmed that she made the right decision in pursuing physical therapy, all while playing field hockey.
“During my time at Utica, I have made a conscious effort to take advantage of every opportunity to learn, and I see this recognition as a testament to that commitment,” Arnold said. “I am truly honored to receive this accolade.”
Barrett will be wrapping up her education at Utica University this year, but she plans to stay in the area and continue her work with CNY Brain and Spine, while she studies for the MCAT and applies to medical schools. As Barrett reflected on her time here at Utica she thanked the school community most for supporting and pushing her every day to be a better version of herself. As a student-athlete on the women’s hockey team and a member of the pre-health organization, Barrett is thankful for all the opportunities that the university has fostered for her.
“The past four years were an incredible experience,” Barrett said. “I am extremely grateful for this community, and I know the relationships I formed over the past four years will remain long after graduation.”
Barrett said being co-valedictorian reflects all of the hard work and dedication she has put into her academics over the last four years. She said that the honor also validates her career goals, as she plans to apply to medical school next spring. Being on the women’s hockey team added another hurdle for Barrett, as it challenged her to manage her academics and collegiate career, both at high levels.
“I was able to perform my best in the classroom and on the ice, no matter the challenges I faced,” Barrett said. “My academic accomplishments at Utica show me I am ready to take on the rigor that is medical school.”
