Posted on Friday, May 07, 2021
Congratulations to the Spring 2021 valedictorian and salutatorian Hadeer Abbas and Tekeema Dean Oliver. Abbas is a biology major who boasts a 3.95 GPA. The Spring 2021 salutatorian, Oliver, boasts a 3.94 GPA and is a health administration major. These students hold the highest GPAs of their graduating class and will be recognized during their respective Commencement ceremonies.
Abbas said being named valedictorian and representing Texas Southern is such an honor. She is excited to be recognized by her HBCU for not only her hard work but also her involvement during her four years. This honor is also a gift she can give to her parents because she knows how much it means to them. “They have given up so much for me to graduate and to be standing with my class on this special day,” said Abbas.
She says she will be a TSU Tiger forever and her journey at the University will not end after she walks the stage, “Just as this school has given me the leeway to flourish, I will also try to bring back the recognition and some opportunities for other students to excel here too.”
When Oliver found out about her class rank as salutatorian, she said she was in shock, “This was unexpected.” She noted she has faced many hardships throughout her journey, but her faith in God and her support from her family have carried her through.
Commencement Exercises will be held at 8:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Saturday, May 8th, at Alexander Durley Stadium. For more information about the Spring 2021 Commencement Exercises, visit www.tsu.edu/commencement.
“For them to see me finish so strong with so many challenges facing me, it makes me feel good and gives me an opportunity to encourage them to keep going,” said Oliver.
Category: Alumni, News Media, Faculty & Staff, Students