As someone who’s lived in the Boston area for 20++ years I wouldn’t say Brandeis is prestigious. If you LOVE Brandeis it might be worth the money.
My guess is the val had another reason for going there. The kids I’ve know at Brandeis have been nice smart kids but not valedictorian level at all.
Debt is a killer. I cannot emphasize this enough. If you can love the options where the money is better do so.