"Double the pride, double the excellence! Twin sisters Tia (Valedictorian) and Jasmin (Salutatorian) Criss made history at Cheyney University. Their story is pure inspiration for the next generation of HBCU scholars.
Tia and Jasmin Criss from Philadelphia have achieved a remarkable milestone, graduating at the top of their class from Cheyney University of Pennsylvania. Tia Criss earned the distinction of valedictorian with a perfect 4.0 GPA, while her sister Jasmin claimed salutatorian honors with a 3.9 GPA. Both received bachelor’s degrees in business administration during the university’s commencement ceremony.
Tia and Jasmin Criss, A Great Achievement Rooted in Discipline and Support
The sisters, who are just three minutes apart in age, expressed surprise at their top rankings. “It’s sort of surreal,” Tia shared. “We weren’t trying to achieve valedictorian or salutatorian — it just happened that way.” Jasmin added that they were shocked upon learning of their positions, noting they had not realized they were top contenders.
Graduates of Philadelphia High School for Girls, the Criss twins credit their strong family foundation and personal discipline for their success. They also highlighted the supportive environment at Cheyney University, which helped them realize their potential. University leaders praised their dedication, with Associate Dean of Students Dr. Lakiyah Chambers calling their story “the product of working hard” and an inspiring example for the campus community.
Tia and Jasmin Criss, Balancing Competition, Compassion, and Personal Passions
Known for their kindness and friendly sibling rivalry, the twins maintained a positive dynamic throughout their academic journey.
“Friendly competition. We were always happy for each other,” Jasmin noted.
Their shared interests include tennis and badminton, but their paths diverge in career aspirations: Tia plans to enter the insurance field like her mother, drawn to its analytical aspects, while Jasmin is passionate about marketing and fashion.
The sisters faced personal challenges, including the passing of their father, Lynn Criss III, in March. They remain motivated by the pride he would have felt in their accomplishments.
Next Chapter: Advancing Education at West Chester University
Following graduation on May 9, 2026, both sisters will continue their studies just down the road at West Chester University, where they will pursue MBA degrees starting in the fall. Their story underscores the transformative power of HBCUs in fostering Black excellence in higher education.
Exceptional achievement by Tia and Jasmin Criss at Cheyney University. Graduating with top honors and near-perfect GPAs while pursuing business degrees demonstrates the enduring value of HBCU education. Wishing them continued success in their MBA programs at West Chester University."
About Cheyney University
Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, founded in 1837, is the oldest historically Black university in the United States. Located near Philadelphia, it has a rich legacy of providing transformative education and empowering generations of African American leaders through academic excellence, innovation, and community impact
