MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ – Alexandra Badaway of North Brunswick will speak as class valedictorian at the 2025 Middlesex College Commencement Ceremony on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at the Jersey Mike’s Arena.

“When I found out I was named valedictorian, I felt an overwhelming mix of pride, gratitude, and disbelief. It was a full-circle moment,” said Badaway.

After overcoming a health crisis, financial struggles, and personal loss, beginning her academic journey at Middlesex College offered Badaway a fresh start. She credits programs like the Equal Opportunity Fund for providing her with the resources to not just survive, but thrive.

“I needed a place to heal and grow. Middlesex College offered me more than academics; it gave me a sense of belonging and a community that believed in me,” said Badaway. “It was here that I found my purpose and started rewriting my story.”

As Badaway became more comfortable in the college environment, she found herself falling into a “big sister” role for her peers on campus. She led the Juvenile Justice Reform Club, became a Bonner Leader, an ESL tutor, and a resource for students who faced language and academic barriers like she once had.

“I’ve helped classmates apply for scholarships, navigate college systems, and tap into opportunities,” said Badaway. “The person who represents the student body should be motivated by collective success, not just individual gains. That’s what drives me. We are a team, and I’ve always believed that when one of us wins, we all win.”

While juggling work, classes, and mentoring fellow students, Badaway continued to maintain her 4.0 GPA. She is also a Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society member, America Needs You Fellow, 2024 Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholar, and recently became a semi-finalist for the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship.

The leadership and advocacy opportunities Middlesex College provided confirmed Badaway’s career path. She plans to use her education to become a changemaker in law, public policy, or higher education and advocate for justice-impacted communities.

“My future is rooted in service, specifically in the fields of law, public policy, or education,” said Badaway. “Middlesex College gave me the tools and the clarity to chase a future where I can shape systems, fight for justice, and empower the next generation.” While she has not finalized where she will transfer, she has quite a remarkable list to choose from. Badaway has already been accepted into Columbia and New York University, but her decision will ultimately depend on funding.

Though Commencement is approaching, this may not be the last you see of Badaway on campus. As she states, one of her goals is to use her future education to give back to the community.

“One day, I hope to return to Middlesex College as a mentor or educator, to give back to the institution that played such a pivotal role in transforming my life and dreams,” said Badaway.

More About Commencement

To learn more about the 58th Annual Middlesex College Commencement, visit: https://middlesexcollege.edu/commencement/

 MIDDLESEX COLLEGE, NJ

Middlesex College, established in 1964, is a public, two-year institution of higher education located in the heart of New Jersey. With a main campus in Edison and centers in New Brunswick and Perth Amboy, Middlesex College offers over 85 degree and certificate programs encouraging its more than 10,000 students to explore, grow, and thrive. Middlesex College, through dedicated faculty, state-of-the-art educational facilities, and holistic student supports, is committed to providing a high-quality, affordable college education that provides every student an opportunity for growth and achievement. Middlesex College is Middlesex County’s premier destination for lifelong learning and workforce training. Learn more at middlesexcollege.edu.