Katie Washington becomes Notre Dame's first ever black valedictorian

There’s news that makes the headlines, and then there’s news that makes the “chitterlings circuit” i.e. the email inboxes of black folk. This story seems to be more of the latter which is truly unfortunate considering the notable accomplishment of Gary, Indiana native Katie Washington. In the University of Notre Dame’s 168 years of existence, an African American has earned the honor of class valedictorian. Katie sports a 4.0 while majoring in biology major and minoring in Catholic social teaching. Her plans after the May 16, 2010 graduation are to pursue a joint MD/PhD from Johns Hopkins University.

Says Black America Web in their article, “University officials said they couldn’t recall ever having a black valedictorian, and don’t keep record of their race.”

Per my email (original source unknown)…

Washington, who earned a 4.0 grade point average, has a minor in Catholic Social Teaching. She has conducted research on lung cancer at the Cold Spring Harbor labs and performed genetic studies in the University’s Eck Institute for Global Health on the mosquito that carries dengue and yellow fever. She is the co-author of a research paper with David Severson, professor of biological sciences.

Washington directs the Voices of Faith Gospel Choir at Notre Dame, is a mentor/tutor for the Sister-to-Sister program at South Bend’s Washington High School and serves as the student coordinator of the Center for Social Concerns’ “Lives in the Balance: Youth Violence and Society Seminar.”

I in no manner want to steal Katie’s well deserved moment in the spotlight, but I want you to know that moments like this happen across America and don’t even make the “chitterlings circuit.” It’s just a reminder that Black America have made many positive strides but still have untapped places and spaces.

Congratulations, Katie Washington!

WBBM News Radio 780 (Chicago)- She’s Notre Dame’s first black valedictorian

BV Backspin- Notre Dame has first black valedictorian

Black America Web- Notre Dame gets its first black valedictorian