Introducing our Class of 2025 Valedictorian

Q&A with Drew McLaughlin

What does it mean to you to be selected valedictorian?

It's an honour and privilege to be selected as valedictorian. I see it as a reflection of this graduating class, UFred faculty and staff and the people who supported us along the way. This wasn't an individual effort. It was a shared experience built alongside peers who kept showing up, supporting each other and raising the standard together.

Being selected as the valedictorian comes with a responsibility to represent that collective effort the right way. It's a chance to reflect what this class was about, and the kind of consistency and commitment it took to get here, together. Because at the end of the day, no one gets here alone.

What helped guide you most during your time at UFred?

The people at UFred helped guide my path. Over time, you start to recognize a few different types of people who shape your direction.

There are those who believe in you, sometimes before you fully believe in yourself. The ones who challenge your thinking and push you to go further. The people whose consistency and discipline raise the standard. That includes peers, faculty, staff, and the people outside of the program who supported you through it. All of that plays a role.

Even the moments that don't go your way - these outcomes force you to adjust and stay grounded. The program provides the structure, but those experiences help calibrate your compass. And through it all, the most important piece is staying a student - being curious, open, and willing to keep learning. Direction matters more than speed.

What challenged you during your program and how did you grow from it?

Like most of our graduating class, there was a lot to balance. Work, family, school - it doesn't slow down. There were definitely stretches where it felt like a lot, but those moments created clarity.

Studying at UFred forced a level of focus and intention - being more deliberate with time, energy, and attention. It's not about trying to do everything perfectly, but making sure you're fully present where it matters most. Consistency compounds over time, and that's what makes the greatest difference.

What kind of leader do you want to continue to grow into and why?

I want to be the kind of leader who helps others grow into their potential. Someone who sets a clear standard, stays curious, and creates space for others to contribute. A leader who listens, asks good questions, and understands that leadership isn't about having all the answers.

Leadership is about helping people move forward together. Because when people feel supported and challenged in the right ways, that's when the best work happens. Strong, resilient people build strong, resilient organizations and communities.

What did you get out of your UFred student experience?

I got a stronger sense of direction and a deeper appreciation for what consistent effort looks like over time. The program challenges you, but it also surrounds you with people who raise the bar through how they show up - in discussions, in group work, and in how they balance everything else in their lives.

My UFred experience reinforces habits that I will carry forward: preparation, follow-through and curiosity. Growth doesn't end at graduation. It's reflected in how you apply what you've learned and how you continue to show up for others.

Drew’s experience is a strong example of what it means to lead, support others and make the most of the learning journey at UFred. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition, Drew!