Franklin Pierce University has named Kaitlyn Bossart of Weare as valedictorian and Martina Spackova of Bratislava, Slovakia, as salutatorian for the Class of 2026.
Both students will be recognized during the university’s baccalaureate ceremony and commencement exercises May 8 and May 9 on the Rindge campus.
Bossart majored in health science with a minor in nutrition. During her time at Franklin Pierce, she founded and led the campus chapter of the National Marrow Donor Program, helped conduct cardiorespiratory research and worked as a pediatric licensed nursing assistant supporting children with disabilities. She graduated in December 2025 and plans to begin the university’s Master of Physician Assistant Studies program this fall.
Spackova majored in history and political science and earned a certificate in women, gender and leadership. She is a member of national honor societies in both disciplines and worked as a peer tutor at the Student Success Center. She participated in press coverage of the 2022 presidential election in Dixville Notch, presented research at academic conferences and volunteered with the National Marrow Donor Program.
A four-year starter and senior captain of the women’s volleyball team, Spackova earned multiple academic honors and was inducted into the Chi Alpha Sigma Honor Society. She plans to pursue a career in international relations, diplomacy and political science.