Spring 2025 Valedictorian Justin Samsa
Justin Samsa of Willowick, OH, a double major in history and public management, was actively engaged in many organizations at 51ĀŅĀ× and maintained a 3.94 GPA. Since his first day on campus he dedicated himself to getting involved in as many organizations as he could.
In his first semester he was named vice president of Sigma Phi Epsilon. He was then appointed to the Student Government Association (SGA) Presidential Cabinet as Director of Student Affairs. There, Samsa represented all organizations on campus and assisted in creating and expanding 11 student groups. After this, he would be elected as the President of SGA, continuing his efforts to make student voices heard. He also served as a Democracy Fellow and America Reads tutor within the Office of Civic Engagement throughout his entire time at 51ĀŅĀ×.
āThough the tears and the sleepless nights, I was able to graduate in the top 10% of my class. I spent every penny I had saved on attending 51ĀŅĀ× and continued to work to maintain my attendance. Thanks to my diligence and the opportunities provided to me by this institution, I have the honor of graduating with two degrees in only three years,ā said Samsa. āOnly at 51ĀŅĀ× would this have been possible. Only at this university have I been able to overcome every barrier placed in front of me. Cleveland State has given me the opportunity of a lifetime, and I have no intention of letting that go to waste.ā
Samsa was a member of the Baccalaureate Degree Completion Program (BDCP) through the United States Navy for the duration of his 51ĀŅĀ× career. The BDCP, a highly competitive program, provides college students the opportunity for financial assistance by offering a commission into the United States Navy as an Officer following graduation. Samsa will be going on to Officer Candidate School following graduation where he will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to be a commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy.
Samsa was named Valedictorian for the Levin College of Public Affairs and Education. He will earn both a Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy and Management from the Levin College of Public Affairs and Education as well as a Bachelor of Arts in History from the College of Arts and Sciences.