Valedictorians are exemplary students chosen by each college or school for academic accomplishments in both four-year and two-year degrees. Graduates at the associate and bachelor levels are honored from the College of Health and Public Service, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Science, Smith College of Engineering and Technology, School of the Arts, School of Education, and Woodbury School of Business.
Bachelor of Science
Architecture
About Jared Kieth Bradshaw
Jared Kieth Bradshaw hails from Highland, Utah, and is proud to be an American Fork High School Caveman. He is receiving a Bachelor of Architecture. Bradshaw switched to UVU from another school after losing interest in his previous career path, along with hearing about his wife’s success at UVU. He is graduating from UVU summa cum laude, has made the dean’s list every semester, and has won numerous awards for his studio projects. He has also traveled to California, Greece, Italy, and France with UVU’s architecture program. Bradshaw plans to continue to grow his business, Bradshaw Wendt Design Studio, while also studying art at the Beaux-Arts Academy.
Associate of Applied Science
Culinary Arts
About Kaylee Joy Snyder
Hailing from Provo, Utah, Kaylee Joy Snyder graduated from Provo High School before attending UVU. She is receiving an associate degree in culinary arts from UVU. Snyder has been chosen to represent UVU to compete for Student Pastry Chef of the Year for the American Culinary Federation (ACF). “Each of the chefs I have worked with are great businesspeople as well as educators,” Snyder said, “and they have taught us not only how to cook but how to manage and run restaurants and cater events.” After graduation, Snyder hopes to continue her education and eventually own a restaurant, bakery, or catering company. Outside of cooking, Snyder enjoys attending Broadway shows, Disney, playing piano, and being outside.
Bachelor of Science
Criminal Justice
About Erin Mooneyham May
Erin Mooneyham May is from Houston, Texas, where she graduated from Magnolia High School. She is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice with a minor in national security. May made the dean’s list every semester and was able to be part of the UVU Criminal Justice Honors Club and the open-source intelligence program and internship. Her favorite part of her time at UVU was being surrounded by different people, all moving toward a goal. May has worked as a security control analyst at Brigham Young University and hopes to work for the DEA.
Associate in Science
Nursing
About Alexandra Gutierrez Navarro
Alexandra Gutierrez Navarro hails from nearby Provo, Utah, where she attended Provo High School. She is graduating with an Associate in Science in nursing. Navarro made the dean’s list in 2023 and 2024, received a Cultural Competency Certificate in her program, and passed the NCLEX on her first try. Her favorite part of UVU was the variety of classes, opportunities, and perspectives she was exposed to. After graduation, Navarro will begin a career as a postpartum registered nurse and hopes to pursue further education in women’s health.
Bachelor of Science
Family Science
About Caitlin Christina Beasley
Caitlin Christina Beasley calls Pleasant Grove, Utah, home and graduated from Pleasant Grove High School. She is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in family science. Beasley has worked as a pediatric CNA for over five years and largely attributes this experience to helping her pursue a career in family science. Her favorite part of attending UVU has been improving her critical thinking and collaborating with her peers. After graduating, Beasley intends to apply to the Intermountain Health Child Life practicum and internship while pursuing a career as a child life specialist.
Bachelor of Science
Exercise Science and Outdoor Recreation
About Megan Astle Bye
Megan Astle Bye is from Draper, Utah, and attended Corner Canyon High School before coming to UVU. She is receiving a bachelor’s degree in exercise science and outdoor recreation from UVU. Astle transferred to UVU from Utah State University to be closer to family. She joined the Wolverine women’s soccer team in addition to her academic achievements, which include a 4.0 GPA, multiple dean’s list appearances, and several research publications. Astle said the best part of UVU is the opportunity to get involved with hands-on lab experience. After graduation, Astle plans to pursue further education and a career in biomechanics and start a family with her husband, Dallan.
Bachelor of Science
Theatre Arts
About Kaylie Walker Short
Kaylie Walker Short is from Riverton, Utah, and attended Riverton High School. She is receiving a Bachelor of Science in theatre arts. While at UVU, Short participated in student teaching intermediate theatre classes at Union Middle School. It was rewarding to see young students build confidence through performing. Her favorite part of UVU is that it is truly a place for everyone, regardless of background, religion, or socioeconomic status. “I’m grateful for the endless support from my husband, Stephen, my mom and dad, and my inspiring classmates and professors,” she said.
Associate in Science
Art and Design
About Alison Wilkinson
Alison Wilkinson is from Herriman, Utah, where she attended Providence Hall High School. She is receiving her degree in art and design. “I’ve learned a lot while being here at UVU,” she said. “I’ve learned to push myself, work harder, and gain new insight into the art and marketing world. I’m excited to see what careers will come my way with the knowledge that I’ve gained.” After graduation, she plans to continue her education, working toward a bachelor's degree and working in advertising. She loves to write music, paint, and read.
Bachelor of Science
Elementary Education
About Ana Lilia Cordova
Ana Lilia Cordova, from Eagle Mountain, Utah, graduated from Los Altos High School in Hacienda Heights, California. A nontraditional student, Cordova returned to school in her 30s and maintained a 4.0 GPA, among other high honor achievements at UVU. She plans to pursue a Master of Advancement in teaching and learning, teach elementary school, and mentor new teachers. She is grateful for the support of her family and the mentorship of UVU professors. Cordova is a proud military wife to Freddy and mother of six: Michael, Joseph, Andrew, Gabriel, Sofia, and Anabelle.
Associate of Science
Early Childhood Education
About Savannah Kreider
Savannah Kreider, from Soldotna, Alaska, graduated from Soldotna High School in 2016. Kreider is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in human development and family studies with a minor in psychology at the University of Utah. She works at The Sammy Center, supporting children’s social and emotional development. Kreider plans to further her education at Stanford University and eventually open a Reggio Emilia-inspired preschool on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula. Kreider is a third-generation Alaskan who began teaching preschool in 2019. She is grateful for the supportive professors and experiences she had at UVU.
Bachelor of Science
Accounting
About Makenley Gross
Makenley Gross is from Springville, Utah, and graduated from Springville High School. She is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in accounting with a minor in business management. While at UVU, Gross became a Certified Peer Educator, earned multiple certifications, and developed strong leadership skills. She credits her time at UVU with helping her build a strong foundation in accounting and prepare for her future career. After graduation, she plans to pursue a career in accounting and become a Certified Public Accountant. Outside of academics, Gross enjoys ceramics, horseback riding, and spending time with family and friends.
Associate in Science
Business Management
About Dakota Turner
Dakota Turner is from Lehi, Utah, and attended Skyridge High School. She is earning an Associate in Science in business management and will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in digital marketing this December. A recipient of an academic merit scholarship at UVU, she has maintained a 4.0 GPA while working part time. Turner’s positive experience at UVU has been shaped by her professors’ dedication and passion for their subjects. After graduation, Turner plans to pursue a career in brand marketing for small businesses, drawing inspiration from Substack newsletters that feature female founders. In her free time, Turner enjoys collecting jewelry and spending time with family.
