Class of 2025 Valedictorians

Brooklyn Campus

Yashal Jalil

Brooklyn Campus Class of 2025 Valedictorian Yashal Jalil knew from her first class at St. Joseph’s University, New York that she had found her academic home. An international law course became the new foundation on which Yashal, a transfer student from a university in upstate New York, would begin her next chapter.

Graduating with a B.A. in Political Science with a minor in Journalism and New Media Studies, Yashal explored many avenues at SJNY, including intensive pursuits in research and writing.

As a Summer Undergraduate Research Fellow (SURF), she embarked on an in-depth comparative study of media secularism in Pakistan and Turkey, immersing herself in the complexities of the subject. The experience culminated in a 40-page research paper—a process that Yashal described as enlightening.

She is equally passionate about her work with the student-run newspaper. Yashal relished the collaborative environment, which helped bring her passion for writing to life in a tangible way. Additional writing classes at SJNY were inspirational too, giving Yashal the confidence to write and direct her own play.

Yet another cherished experience during her time on campus were readings inside the historic Parlors. Yashal shared her own poetry with the community of students, professors and University leadership on two occasions.

Yashal also interned at the United Nations during the 78th session of the U.N. General Assembly, an impactful experience that affirmed her aspirations to one day work in international law and advocacy.

Her excellence is also reflected in her membership to the Kappa Gamma Pi and Sigma Iota Chi honor societies.

“St. Joseph’s University gave me so much — it truly shaped my journey, both academically and personally. From my major-related classes to the liberal arts courses, every lesson and discussion helped me grow.”

Long Island Campus

Caroline O’Dea

Long Island Campus Class of 2025 Valedictorian Caroline O’Dea immersed herself in the full college experience that St. Joseph’s University, New York offers students in Patchogue.

From conducting summer research with professors to competing in cross country to serving as a club president, Caroline has been a committed member of the SJNY community while maintaining her 4.0 GPA.

A member of Kappa Gamma Pi, Caroline graduates with a B.S. in Biology, Adolescent Education, a major that allowed her to explore a love of biology and teaching simultaneously.

A scholar-athlete, Caroline participated in cross country for SJNY for two seasons. This fall, she garnered the Skyline Conference’s Elite 19 award, which is given to the student-athlete who has the highest cumulative GPA in the conference within their chosen sport.

A member of the Green Team since her arrival on campus as a transfer student in fall 2022, Caroline served as vice president in spring 2024 and president during the spring semester of her senior year.

Caroline has also conducted undergraduate summer research with SJNY faculty on metabolic dysfunction of ovarian cancer cells.

After graduation, Caroline is looking forward to teaching high school, where she is excited to share her love for biology with students. She also plans to continue her own education, pursuing a master’s and doctorate to one day become a college professor.

“Because of St. Joe’s, I have found my true calling, achieved goals I never thought possible and made incredible friends and memories that I will cherish forever.”