Perfectionist, conscientious, patient, detail-oriented and honest. These are the words used to describe Cabrini College’s 2016 valedictorian, Thomas Hale.
A graduate of Perkiomen High School, Hale is a senior graphic design major with minors in Spanish and marketing.
Every day, Hale commutes from Collegeville, Pennsylvania; a short 30-minute drive from campus.
When he is not enjoying a Santa Fe chicken wrap in Sandella’s, you will most likely find this honoree in the graphic design wing working on his newest project.
With a current GPA of 3.95, Hale is the first graphic design student in Cabrini history to win the esteemed honor of valedictorian.
“I’m really proud to bring this honor to the graphic design department,” Hale said. “I think it was very validating to have all of my nights of hard work finally pay off.”
During his time at Cabrini, Hale was an active member of the honors program, President of the foreign language honor society Thi Iota Sigma, a Norristown peer mentor and logo designer for various clubs and organizations on campus.
According to Hale his favorite part of being a Cavalier was becoming a part of the Cabrini family.
“After I graduate I will really miss the teachers that guided me and championed me,” Hale said. “I’m so thankful for all the hours they dedicated to my needs, which is one of the greatest things about a small school. You can add that to the list of things I will miss most about Cabrini….the closeness.”
Hale’s favorite spot on campus is the graphic design wing because it’s where he spent most of his time the past four years. However, he laughed when he stated from a commuter standpoint the campus entrances were very memorable because of all the construction and speed bumps.
After graduation Hale hopes to get a job that will help further his skills and passion in graphic design. He would ultimately like to create and design mobile applications.
Hale’s hard work and determination is certainly admirable to all. All students can learn from his personal philosophy.
“My advice to students younger than me is to not let failure or doubt keep you from accomplishing your goals even if they seem impossible,” Hale said.
The Class of 2016 will graduate on Sunday, May 22 at 2:30pm where Hale will give his long awaited speech.
“I’m really going to miss this place,” Hale said. “I’m so proud to be a Cabrini graduate.”
From everyone here at PV, Congratulations!!! What an accomplishment!!!