2026 Valedictorian Abby Newton Continues Her Education at Saint Mary’s
By TESS HAYES ’25
Abigail (Abby) Newton ’26 came to Saint Mary’s from Kirklin, Indiana, a small town near Indianapolis, after visiting campus and discovering a college whose welcoming community and commitment to academic excellence aligned with what she was looking for.
She graduated this spring as co-valedictorian, earning her bachelor’s in computing and applied mathematics. Newton is continuing her academic journey at Saint Mary’s, where she is pursuing a Master of Science in Data Science, and has already begun coursework toward the degree.
In this Q&A, Newton reflects on finding her community, the professors who shaped her path, and why a master’s degree in Data Science was the natural next step for her.
What first drew you to Saint Mary's?
While searching for colleges as a senior in high school, I began receiving emails from Saint Mary’s. My mom suggested we visit campus for STEM Day, and I’m so glad we did. Coming from Kirklin, Indiana, I appreciated that Saint Mary’s was close to home, but what really stood out to me was its welcoming atmosphere and strong academic environment. I wasn’t completely sure what to expect from attending a women’s college, but looking back, it ended up being one of the best parts of my experience.
Can you share why attending a women’s college made a difference?
Attending a women’s college gave me the confidence to grow both academically and personally. People often talk about the “sisterhood” at Saint Mary’s and how it develops outside the classroom, but I experienced it just as much in my classes. The small class sizes created an environment where I felt comfortable asking questions, sharing my ideas, and participating without worrying about being judged.
Looking back, I don’t think I fully realized how much I was growing at the time. Saint Mary’s challenged me academically while also helping me become more confident in my abilities. Through group projects, presentations, and leadership opportunities, I developed skills that extended far beyond the classroom. I was not only learning course material, but also becoming a more confident leader and professional.
How did your interest in mathematics evolve into data science?
I came to Saint Mary’s knowing I wanted to study mathematics. I’ve always enjoyed math and problem-solving, so it felt like the right path from the start. Early on, I took an introductory Python course to fulfill a general education requirement. Before that class, I had never programmed before, but I ended up really enjoying it. It opened my eyes to a whole new side of problem-solving that I hadn’t experienced before.
As I took more math and computer science courses, I realized how well the two complemented each other. Around that same time, I learned about Saint Mary’s Master of Science in Data Science program.It seemed like the perfect fit because it combined the subjects I was most excited to keep learning.
What drew you to the 4+1 master’s program?
I came to Saint Mary’s with a lot of credits already completed, so I was able to finish my undergraduate degree in three years. Continuing into the 4+1 program felt like the perfect opportunity to build on that momentum while earning both my bachelor’s degree and my Master of Science in Data Science in just four years.
I was also excited about the opportunity to continue learning from professors who had already made such an impact on my undergraduate experience. The relationships I built with faculty were one of the most meaningful parts of my time at Saint Mary’s, and the master’s program allows me to continue learning from them while expanding my knowledge of data science. I also appreciate that the courses are offered online, which provides flexibility while still allowing me to stay connected to the Saint Mary’s community.
I plan to graduate next spring, and while I am still exploring which industry I would like to pursue, I feel confident that the program is preparing me for a career in data analytics.
What did it mean to you to represent your class as the Commencement speaker?
The entire experience was surreal. When I began thinking about my speech, I knew I wanted the theme to be community because that was such a defining part of my Saint Mary’s experience. I wanted to reflect on what it felt like to arrive at Saint Mary’s uncertain about the future and then find a place where I could build meaningful relationships, create lifelong friendships, and make memories that only our classmates will fully understand.
Commencement marked the end of one chapter, but it also reminded us that Saint Mary’s will always be a part of who we are as we move forward. Being able to represent my classmates and share that message with them was an unforgettable experience.
How does Saint Mary’s shape your confidence and leadership?
My confidence has grown gradually throughout my time at Saint Mary’s. As I took classes, built relationships, and challenged myself, I became more comfortable trusting my own abilities. Not every class came easily, and some of my biggest moments of growth came from experiences that pushed me outside of my comfort zone.
During my first semester, I struggled with economics and earned one of the lowest quiz grades I had ever received. Instead of letting that experience discourage me, I reached out to the Writing and Tutoring Center for support. With their help, I improved, and that experience taught me the importance of asking questions, seeking resources, and continuing to grow. Over time, Saint Mary’s helped me become more confident in unfamiliar situations and more willing to take on leadership opportunities.
What advice would you give your first-year self?
Trust the process. You will find your people. It can take time to discover where you belong, especially when you’re working through general education requirements and figuring out your interests. Eventually, you’ll find the right major, community, and the classes that remind you why you chose Saint Mary’s in the first place.
Abby earned her BS in Computing and Applied Mathematics and is earning her MS in Data Science
Rapid Fire:
Favorite dining hall meal: Wing Night
Favorite tradition: The Opening and Closing of the Circle ceremonies
Favorite spot on campus: The fourth floor of the library—bright, quiet, and close to the rooftop sitting area
Favorite class: Linear Algebra with Professor Bogdan Vajiac
August 5, 2026