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Following a Legacy, Creating Her Own: Kadyn Baker Named Valedictorian
Posted on May 07, 2026 at 18:00 PM
For Kadyn Silas Baker, earning the title of valedictorian is more than an academic honor. It is the culmination of years of discipline and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Kadyn began her journey at Fort Valley State University (FVSU) in the fall of 2023 as a chemistry major within the College of Arts and Sciences. A graduate of GMC Prep in Gray, Georgia, she entered as a Cooperative Developmental Energy Program (CDEP) scholar, an opportunity that played a defining role in her college decision. While she considered other institutions, the combination of a full scholarship and the hands-on experience offered through CDEP made FVSU the right choice.
Her connection to the university is also deeply personal. Kadyn’s mother, Kahadija Baker, graduated from Fort Valley State University in 1998 with a degree in Early Childhood Education. Following in her footsteps, Kadyn found a place where she could grow, challenge herself and ultimately rise to the top of her class.
Initially, Kadyn set her sights on becoming an anesthesiologist. However, as she progressed through her studies, her passion shifted.
“Chemistry stole my heart,” she said.
That passion became the foundation of her success. Through long hours of studying and a relentless drive to master her coursework, Kadyn distinguished herself academically, ultimately earning the distinction of valedictorian. Her success reflects not only her intelligence but also her consistency and determination.
That determination was shaped long before college. Growing up, Kadyn witnessed her mother battle brain cancer and her father face heart disease. Those experiences instilled in her a deep sense of focus at an early age. She understood that while she could not control those circumstances, she could control how hard she worked and what she achieved.
That mindset carried her through one of her most challenging courses, Chemical Instrumentation, a theory-heavy class that required her to apply both chemistry and mathematics at a high level. Rather than shy away from difficulty, Kadyn leaned into it, strengthening the skills that would define her academic success.
“I put in so much effort and now I’m here,” Kadyn said. “This means to me that all my hard work has paid off and I am succeeding the way I have always wanted to.”
Beyond the classroom, Kadyn remained actively involved on campus. She is a member of the National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers, the National Society of Black Engineers, and the Eta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., where she was initiated in Spring 2026. She also remained engaged in the CDEP program, gaining valuable exposure to opportunities in energy and engineering.
Kadyn also made time to give back, volunteering at Turner Woods Elementary School and building meaningful connections across campus. One of her most impactful relationships was with fellow CDEP scholar Charity Elise Smith. The two have taken nearly every class together, supporting one another through study sessions and sharing academic challenges.
She credits much of her success to the guidance of her professors, including Tiffany Holmes, Ph.D., associate professor of Chemistry, Robin Bright, Ph.D., associate professor of Chemistry, and Aditya Kar, Ph.D., associate professor of Geology, who supported and challenged her throughout her journey.
Her advice to future students is to embrace both discipline and experience.
“I spent so much time studying, but I also got out and enjoyed the campus and the people,” she said. “You can do well in your classes and still enjoy campus life.”
After graduation, Kadyn will continue her education at the University of Alabama, where she has been accepted into a graduate program in environmental engineering. She aspires to become a quality control engineer in the pharmaceutical industry, combining her love for chemistry with a desire to make a meaningful impact.
Reflecting on her journey, Kadyn is confident she made the right choice.
“Hands down, I would choose FVSU again,” she said. “FVSU was the place for me. I grew here, and now I’m prepared to go anywhere.”
As valedictorian, Kadyn leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience, discipline, and excellence, setting the standard for those who follow.
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