Four Nigerians studying at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania, United States, graduated with distinction at the school’s 166th graduation ceremony.
Seven Nigerians were among the first-degree earners; four graduated with top-of-the-class academic performance and a perfect grade point average of 4.0.
Their excellence was particularly evident in mathematics, computer science, and the health sciences.
The four Nigerians include Iteoluwa Jesutoromo Ibitoye, Chinyere Obiageli Offor, Praise Olalekan, and Osoname Fortune Omonagbe.
Brendan Allen, president of Lincoln University, praised the four individuals for their resilience, determination, and “exemplifying good character and self-discipline” during their academic years.
“These valedictorians showed focus despite the distractions around them. They displayed great courage, good character and self-discipline. There is no doubt, they will be great ambassadors of this university,” he said.
Iteoluwa, daughter of Toyin Ibitoye, the veteran journalist, appreciated God for her journey throughout her years in school.
She described the new feat as “the beginning of greater things to come”.
“I am so happy that everything has turned out this way. I thank Jesus Christ, my Lord, for seeing me through,” she said.
“I am also very happy that I have made my parents and siblings proud, and along with my other Nigerian valedictorians, given a good impression of our dear nation. I believe God and know that this is the beginning of greater things to come.”
Lincoln University was founded in 1854 as the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in the US.