Proud Moment for the Fighting Irish Family as Zander Roth Named Notre Dame’s 2025 Valedictorian for His Unmatched Excellence and Dedication

The University of Notre Dame has always been known for cultivating the minds and hearts of future leaders, inspiring excellence, service, and innovation across every field of study. Today, the Notre Dame family has yet another reason to celebrate as we proudly honor one of our brightest stars—Zander Roth—who has officially been named the Valedictorian for the Class of 2025. His achievement represents not only an individual triumph but also a reflection of the values and spirit that Notre Dame holds dear.

Becoming a valedictorian at one of the nation’s most prestigious universities is no small feat. It requires more than just academic excellence; it demands years of tireless dedication, unwavering commitment to personal growth, and the ability to inspire others through action and integrity. For those who have known Zander throughout his time at Notre Dame, this recognition comes as no surprise. He has consistently embodied the characteristics of a true Notre Dame scholar—intellectual rigor, servant leadership, compassion for others, and an unrelenting drive to make a positive impact on the world.

Zander Roth arrived at Notre Dame as a first-year student filled with ambition, curiosity, and a passion for making the most of every opportunity that came his way. Hailing from a family deeply rooted in service and education, Zander’s journey to South Bend was shaped by an early belief in hard work, community involvement, and the transformative power of knowledge. From the moment he set foot on campus, he immersed himself in the vibrant academic, social, and spiritual life that defines the Fighting Irish experience.

Throughout his four years at Notre Dame, Zander distinguished himself as a remarkable scholar, majoring in Political Science and Global Affairs, while also earning a minor in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE). His academic accomplishments speak volumes—graduating with a near-perfect GPA, participating in advanced research projects, and earning multiple awards for academic distinction. His intellectual curiosity extended beyond the classroom, as he engaged in discussions on global policy, ethics, and the future of leadership with faculty and peers alike.

But Zander’s contributions to the Notre Dame community extended far beyond academics. Known for his humility and approachable nature, he has been a mentor, advocate, and friend to countless students. Whether volunteering with local outreach programs, tutoring underclassmen, or serving as a Resident Assistant in one of Notre Dame’s residence halls, Zander consistently demonstrated a commitment to service and leadership grounded in empathy.

One of Zander’s most notable impacts was his involvement with the Center for Social Concerns, where he worked on projects aimed at addressing inequality and promoting social justice both locally and globally. His research on policy reform and community development not only earned academic praise but also resulted in tangible initiatives that benefited underserved populations in South Bend and beyond. Zander’s belief that education must be paired with action is what set him apart as both a scholar and a leader.

Moreover, Zander was an active participant in Notre Dame’s student government, where he advocated for initiatives supporting mental health, academic accessibility, and diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus. His collaborative spirit, paired with an unwavering sense of responsibility, helped foster meaningful change that will benefit future generations of Notre Dame students.

Zander’s achievements have not gone unnoticed by his peers and faculty mentors. Professor Elaine Marston, a renowned figure in the Political Science department, praised his intellectual rigor and leadership, stating, “Zander exemplifies what it means to be a Notre Dame student. His academic brilliance is matched only by his moral integrity and deep commitment to serving others. His selection as valedictorian is well-deserved, and I have no doubt he will continue to make a profound impact wherever his journey leads.”

Perhaps one of the most defining aspects of Zander’s Notre Dame experience was his dedication to faith and spiritual growth. True to the university’s Catholic tradition, Zander actively participated in campus ministry programs, retreats, and service trips that deepened his understanding of compassion, justice, and community. His faith was not merely a personal journey but a guiding force behind his academic and service pursuits, inspiring others to live with purpose and conviction.

As he prepares to deliver the valedictory address at commencement, Zander reflects on the journey that brought him to this incredible milestone. In his own words, “Notre Dame has given me so much more than an education. It has given me a family, a community that believes in the power of hope, integrity, and service. To be named valedictorian is humbling, but this moment belongs to all of us—the friends, mentors, and loved ones who have supported me every step of the way.”

Zander’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and purpose. His accomplishments serve as an inspiration to current and future Notre Dame students who strive to make their mark academically while staying true to the university’s core values of faith, service, and leadership.

For his family, this achievement is a proud culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering support. His parents, longtime advocates for education and community service, expressed immense pride in Zander’s accomplishments. “From a young age, Zander always believed in working hard, helping others, and pushing himself to grow,” his mother shared. “Notre Dame has been the perfect place for him to thrive, and we couldn’t be prouder of the man he has become.”

As Zander Roth prepares to graduate and embark on the next chapter of his journey, his future looks nothing short of extraordinary. With aspirations to attend law school and pursue a career in international policy and advocacy, he hopes to leverage his education and experiences to create lasting, positive change on a global scale.

The Notre Dame community stands firmly behind Zander as he steps into this new chapter, confident that his character, intellect, and dedication will continue to shine brightly wherever he goes. His story reminds us all of the immense potential that lies within every student, and how dedication, integrity, and service can transform not only an individual but entire communities.

Today, we celebrate not just the academic excellence of Notre Dame’s 2025 Valedictorian but the spirit of hope, resilience, and leadership that Zander Roth represents. Congratulations to Zander on this remarkable achievement—your Notre Dame family is proud beyond words, and we cannot wait to see the incredible impact you will make in the world.