Forest and Pastrone Named Valedictorian and Salutatorian for the Class of 2026

Assumption University has announced that Julia Forest, a communication and media major, has been named valedictorian, and Claire Pastrone, a double major in music and psychology, with a concentration in child and adolescent development, has been named salutatorian for the Class of 2026. 

At the commencement ceremony on May 18, Forest will deliver the valedictory address, and Pastrone will introduce this year’s commencement speaker: Dr. Roosevelt Montás, renowned author, professor, and the executive director of the Chang Chavkin Center for Liberal Education and Civic Life at Bard College.

Forest, from Rutland, Massachusetts, was named the most meritorious student in the communication and media major. She re-founded Assumption’s student-run television channel, AUTV, and served as its director. Forest is also copy editor of the Le Provocateur newspaper and president of the Sigma Tau Delta honor society in English. Following graduation, she plans to continue her studies in graduate school.

“It is truly an honor to be chosen as the valedictorian of the Class of 2026, and I am pleased to share this recognition with Claire,” said Forest. “What makes this achievement most meaningful is the opportunity to represent our class—a group of remarkable students who are accomplished, compassionate, creative, and committed to making a difference. Long after graduation, this honor will serve as a reminder of the extraordinary experience I had at Assumption University, surrounded by people who inspired, challenged, and mentored me, and by a community where I truly found a sense of belonging.”  

Pastrone, from Sterling, Massachusetts, was named most the meritorious student in both her majors. She is a vocal scholar, president of Assumption’s Chorale, vice president of the psychology honors society Psi Chi, and co-runs Fiat, a Catholic women’s group. Following graduation, Pastrone will teach at St. Benedict Classical Academy in Natick, Massachusetts, and plans to pursue a master’s degree in counseling. 

“I am incredibly honored to represent the Class of 2026 as salutatorian and to introduce Dr. Montás at commencement,” said Pastrone. “The Assumption community has had a profound impact on my life, and I am grateful to those who have challenged me to think critically and deepen my Catholic faith during my time here. I am certain the liberal education I received will continue to impact me and those around me as I move forward.” 

Forest and Pastrone were chosen for these honors by the Valedictorian and Salutatorian Committee, which consisted of: 

• Ms. Kailey Sova, President of the Class of 2026
• Ms. Lauren Tempesta, Vice President of the Class of 2026
• Dr. Eloise Knowlton, Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs and chair
• Dr. Rachel Coleman, Assistant Professor of Theology and Faculty Representative on the Commencement Committee
• Dr. Christian Williams, Assistant Professor of Health and Human Services and Faculty Representative on the Commencement Committee