Ellen Kolling is Post University’s 2026 “Online Valedictorian.”
Ellen is receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, and during her academic journey, has maintained a 4.0 GPA; earned a place on the President’s List every term; and is an active participant in the Honors Program. Ellen is also a member of the Alpha Chi National Honor Society, an organization that recognizes academic excellence and integrity.
Ellen was also an active participant on the Post University Student Lounge page on Facebook, where she often encouraged her fellow students, answered questions, and helped to create a positive, uplifting environment to support students in their academic goals.
Ellen is also active in her community, volunteering extensively in several organizations. She serves as Secretary of the Montgomery City Public Library’s Friends of the Library, Secretary of the Wellsville Preservation and Historical Society, and is a board member for the Reed House, a historic 1912 home in Wellsville, Missouri. Ellen also works to support the Wellsville FARM Food Pantry and the restoration of the Wellsville Kiwanis ballpark for local youth and school teams.
As is evident in these impressive accomplishments, Ellen says she approaches every responsibility with “dedication, compassion, and a strong work ethic.” For Ellen, being named valedictorian “is a meaningful recognition of the effort I put into my studies, my community, and the people around me.”
1. My most memorable moment at commencement: My most memorable moment at commencement was meeting my academic advisor in person for the first time. It wasn’t planned at all. I heard my name called as we waited to walk to the theater, turned around, and there she was. Finally seeing the person behind the supportive phone calls and encouraging emails was incredibly meaningful. She is an amazing human being and an exceptional advisor, and meeting her made the day even more special.
2. Highlights from my experience at Post: Being part of the Honors Program was one of the biggest highlights of my time at Post. I loved the challenges, the support, and the unwavering belief the Honors leaders had in us as students. They are truly incredible people. Another highlight has been studying under Professor Charles Lovetri. This is my third term with him, and I’ve appreciated his knowledge, his laid-back personality, his humor, and the way he encourages students to grow while remembering that learning should be enjoyable.
3. How Post prepared me for the future: Post has given me the foundation I needed to move forward in my career. I’ve wanted to enter the psychology field for years, and Post made that dream possible. Their commitment to being personalized, student-centered, open-minded, and culturally attuned helped me see the world through a new lens. I will always be grateful to Post for giving me the space to rise — and for being proud to watch me soar.
4. My advice to current and future students: Keep going. Face your challenges head-on and believe in yourself even on the days when it feels difficult. Your story matters. Your effort is seen. Your strength is inspiring. Every student at Post is juggling something, and yet we continue to persevere. That perseverance is recognized and celebrated here. Your voice is powerful, and your journey is worth every step.
5. The people who impacted my life the most: Many people have had a lasting impact on my life during college — my children, my partner Brad, my close friend Anna, my extended family, and my friends. Brad, Anna, and my uncle John have been my biggest support system and my loudest cheerleaders. They remind me that I don’t have to be perfect; I just must do my best. My advisor, Marisa Donarumo, has also been extraordinary. I knew I could reach out to her with any question or concern, and she always responded with care and dedication. Professor Charles Lovetri has made a profound impact as well. He reminded me that humans make mistakes and that it’s okay to breathe, laugh, and keep going. He showed me that education should be meaningful, challenging, and fun.
6. What’s next for me: What comes next is filled with hope and possibility. My goal is to earn my master’s in psychology and continue moving toward a career in counseling and teaching. If I can help even one person overcome their fears, doubts, or past, then I will be walking the path I’m meant to follow. As I step into this next chapter, I’ll always remember where I started — a woman filled with self-doubt, shaped by her past but not defined by it. And I’ll remember who I became: a graduate, a Valedictorian, Summa Cum Laude, Honors Distinction, National Honor Society member, and Post Eagle. This journey has changed me, and I cannot wait to see where the next one leads.
