Vivian France Named 2026 Cleveland State University Valedictorian

Published on

Vivian France from Cleveland, Ohio, has been named valedictorian of the spring 2026 graduating class from Cleveland State University (CSU) Levin College of Public Affairs and Education. She is earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Criminology with a Pre-Law concentration.  

Vivian France posing in front of CSU seal wearing valedictorian stole and commencement regalia.

A first-generation college student, France balanced full-time work with a full course load while earning an academic scholarship and the Provost’s Award. She served as the president of CSU’s Phi Alpha Delta International Law Fraternity chapter and the CSU Pre-Law Society and was active in community service, including volunteering at Laura’s Home and Seeds of Literacy.  

France gained professional experience through internships with Pregnant with Possibilities Resource Center and the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office. 

“As I finish up my fourth and final year at CSU and prepare to apply to law school in the fall, I am full of gratitude in every way,” said France. “I can look back and truly see that my entire life has led me to the exact place I am supposed to be today. I am forever grateful to CSU and the amazing peers, professors and staff that I have had the privilege of meeting along the way, who have encouraged, supported and helped me greatly.”  

CSU congratulates Vivian France on her exceptional accomplishments and wishes her continued success as she applies to law school.  

Read more about all of the CSU spring 2026 valedictorians and other high-achieving graduates on the University’s Commencement graduate stories web page.