Katie Washington has become the first black American in the history of Notre Dame to be named valedictorian. A biological science major, Washington earned a 4.0 grade point average and will deliver the valedictory address at Notre Dame’s commencement ceremony in May.
Washington always had a desire to excel in the field of medicine. As an adolescent in Gary, Ind., Washington would complete her homework at her father’s medical office after school and followed closely whenever he visited his patients.
Being exposed to that environment at a young age allowed Washington to get an intimate perspective of the effort it would take to achieve her academic and career goals.
Washington has been accepted to Harvard Medical School, but she will pursue a M.D., Ph.D. at Johns Hopkins University. –a.r.
