Yasmine Ben Arous named 2025-26 Valedictorian

While the selection process is always challenging, Yasmine’s track record of leadership, academic excellence and community engagement, as well as her authenticity, positive outlook and strong speaking skills, made her an obvious choice for the role.

During her time at Vanier, Yasmine served on the Vanier College Students’ Association (VCSA) council, as co-president of the Vanier Health and First Aid Team—helping to grow the initiative to nearly 70 volunteers—and as Honours Science Class Representative. She also volunteered as a Math and Science tutor with the Tutoring and Academic Success Centre (TASC) and participated in AI research initiatives at the College.  

In the classroom, Yasmine achieved top grades in her demanding Honours Science courses while simultaneously pursuing a Major in Sustainability Studies, challenging herself to make connections between her studies and broader social and environmental issues. 

Passionate about student mental health and well-being, she also launched the AI-powered app Calmos, designed as a positive alternative to social media intended to help prevent student anxiety attacks. She presented on this topic, and the need for a broader definition of student success, as an invited speaker at the TEDxVille Marie conference last year.  

Beyond Vanier, Yasmine is also a member of the Rideau Hall Foundation’s Ingenious+ youth group and is a national ambassador for the Hydro-Québec Science Fair. In her second semester, she was nominated for the King Charles III Coronation medal, and was recently recognized through a prestigious Loran Scholar Award. 

Described by peers and teachers alike as inspiring, generous and community-driven, Yasmine has demonstrated not only outstanding individual achievement, but a propensity to lift up those around her. 

After graduation, Yasmine will pursue her studies at McGill University in Computer Engineering, with plans to pursue a double minor in Biomedical Engineering and Technological Entrepreneurship. 

You can watch Yasmine’s TedX talk here. 

Congratulations to Yasmine and best of luck at graduation and beyond!