BETHANY, W.Va. (May 10, 2025) – Bethany College proudly recognizes Alexis Holden-Kendra and Victoria Uva as the recipients of the Oreon E. Scott Award, presented annually to the graduating seniors with the highest academic standing. These two exceptional scholars have earned the distinction of Valedictorian for the Class of 2025.
The award honors Oreon E. Scott, a distinguished Bethany alumnus from the Class of 1892 and long-serving trustee, and reflects the College’s enduring commitment to academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and scholarly achievement. Dr. Danny Moore, Vice President for Academic Affairs, presented the award during the College’s Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 10.
Alexis Holden-Kendra
A native of New Cumberland, West Virginia, Holden-Kendra majored in communications and media arts with a focus on digital media and production. She served as departmental Senior Fellow and was a dedicated and high-achieving member of the Bethany community. Holden-Kendra earned distinction on her comprehensive exams and was inducted into the Gamma Sigma Kappa Scholarship Society. She also received the Charlotte Manion Yurko Award from the communications department, was an active member of the Honors Program, and earned All-American Academic Honors from the National Fastpitch Coaches Association as part of the Bethany softball team. After graduation, Holden Kendra is taking time to explore options for the future. She is deciding between graduate school and entering a position.
Victoria Uva
Originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina, Uva double majored in psychology and social work. She earned distinction on her comprehensive exams and was awarded both the John H. Hull Student Research Award and the Thomas R. Briggs Award. Her academic excellence and leadership were further recognized through her induction into Gamma Sigma Kappa, Omicron Delta Kappa, and Psi Chi—where she served as chapter president. Uva distinguished herself not only through scholarship but also through a deep commitment to service, consistently investing her time and energy in the campus community. She served as a Resident Assistant, psychology lab proctor, and a dedicated member of the Bethany track and field team, making a lasting impact across multiple areas of student life. After graduation, Uva is planning to return to Argentina to pursue further studies.
By earning the Oreon E. Scott Award, Holden-Kendra and Uva join a distinguished legacy of Bethany scholars whose academic accomplishments, leadership, and integrity have left a lasting mark on the College community.
Congratulations to the Valedictorians of the Class of 2025! We celebrate your hard work and look forward to the impact you will make in the world ahead.
Info
Visit
Apply
Deposit