Taylor K. Pels, GPS alumna from the class of 2014, will deliver the valedictory address at her college commencement ceremony on Friday, May 25. She majored in chemistry in the Health Professionals Advising Program at College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, Ma..
Ms. Pels is a member of Phi Beta Kappa and Alpha Sigma Nu Jesuit Honor Society as well as a Sheehan Scholar, which awarded her full tuition for her four years at Holy Cross. She plans to spend a year in clinical or biomedical research after graduation before pursuing a degree in pediatric medicine.
According to Holy Cross, Ms. Pels was selected as valedictorian from a group of academically outstanding members of her senior class; each submitted speeches for consideration. The Valedictorian Selection Committee—composed of students from the senior class, faculty members, and administrators—reviewed the submissions, and final selection was made by Margaret Freije, Provost and Dean of the College.
“I give so much credit to the influence GPS had on me and how well it prepared me for a successful college experience,” Ms. Pels said. “I wouldn’t be nearly where I am today without the support of my GPS family.”
For the past two years, Ms. Pels conducted research in the Holy Cross organic chemistry lab and participated in toxicology research at the University of Virginia School of Medicine during the summer of 2017. She served on the planning committees for Holy Cross Dance Marathon (benefiting the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation) and her college’s Women in Science Day. She was a Peer Assistant Learning tutor, STEM+E tutor, teaching assistant in the introductory chemistry labs, cheerleader, and fall orientation leader. She was also very involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters Central Mass, where she mentored a young Worcester community girl.
The GPS community shares in the joy surrounding the accomplishments of Ms. Pels and looks forward to learning about her future endeavors.