Tera Poole, a native from Ohio rose against all odds to become the first Black Valedictorian at the World’s First School of Dentistry. She was one of the 9 Black Female students who graduated from Maryland School of Dentistry On May 20.

Two days later after graduation was when Tera Poole realized that she had indeed made history. The Dental school was established in 1840, 25 years before the U.S abolished slave trade. It has been in existence for 150 years.

Even though she was aware that she was the top performer in her class, she got a surprise of her lifetime upon finding herself leading her class being ranked as a Valedictorian. In her speech, she acknowledged that everything including being a valedictorian still surpised her. She is the first to achieve this award as a Black-American in the history of the institution.

Valedictorian is a Latin Term which means one who says the farewell. A valedictorian achievement is the highest academic achievement for a college student. It not only covers academic excellence especially on GPA but also evidence on how well-rounded the student is outside the classroom and his/her intellectual promise. It, therefore, means that Tera Poole did not only make it to the top of her class academically but was also a well-rounded student.

This achievement will inspire young African American girls for years to come. Thank you Ms. Poole for making your mark in history and being an inspiration to little girls and boys. Thank you for being an image of excellence!